Bentley claims lead over Byrne in runoff

State Rep. Robert Bentley has a clear lead over Bradley Byrne in the Republican runoff for governor, according to a poll released by Bentley's campaign on Wednesday.
Dresner, Wickers and Associates LLC conducted the statewide survey on June 5 and June 6 among 400 people registered to vote in Alabama and considered likely to vote in the July 13 Republican primary runoff election.
Bentley, a Tuscaloosa dermatologist, leads Byrne 45-29 among likely voters.
"Despite being outspent by over 3 to 1 by Bradley Byrne, Robert Bentley is now the clear front runner in the GOP runoff election for governor of Alabama," according to the summary of the poll. "Robert Bentley holds double digit leads over Bradley Byrne among all likely voters, key media markets, and among likely Republican, Democrat, and independent voters. ... Robert Bentley is well-positioned to win the runoff and the general election for governor."
Bentley was strong across all three groups with 53 percent of Democrats preferring him compared to 20 percent for Byrne. Forty-five percent of Republicans preferred Bentley compared to 31 percent for Byrne.
Byrne, former chancellor of the state's two-year college system, and Bentley finished ahead of five other Republicans. Greenville businessman Tim James finished 167 votes behind Bentley and has asked for a recount.
The winner of the Republican runoff will face Democratic nominee Ron Sparks in November.

-- posted by Sebastian Kitchen