Rokita poll shows him in virtual tie with Gregg for governor

U.S. Rep. Todd Rokita would be in a virtual tie with Democrat John Gregg if he’s chosen as the Republican candidate for governor, according to a new poll released by the candidate Wednesday.

Rokita has a slight 45 percent to 43 percent lead over Gregg, a virtual tie because the difference between the two candidates falls within the poll’s 4 percentage point margin of error.

The poll by Public Opinion Strategies also shows Rokita with similar name recognition to Gregg in the Indianapolis area, though Gregg, who officially entered the race last year, remains at an advantage.

Rokita released the results to Indiana delegates at the Republican National Convention, many of whom serve on the GOP panel that will pick a replacement for Gov. Mike Pence on the ballot.

Also vying for the job: Lt. Gov. Eric Holcomb, U.S. Rep. Susan Brooks and state Sen. Jim Tomes.

Rokita referred IndyStar to his campaign staff, who did not directly answer questions about whether they did polling on his competitors.

"We really are trying to stay positive here," said Rokita's campaign spokesman Tim Edson. "We built the poll around Todd and the messages we believe will resonate in the general election."

The results show once those surveyed learned more about Rokita his advantage over Gregg increased to a 13-point lead.

The poll was completed Saturday to Monday immediately after Pence was formally announced as Donald Trump’s running mate.

Call IndyStar reporter Chelsea Schneider at (317) 444-6077. Follow her on Twitter: @IndyStarChelsea.