WAUKESHA, Wis. – March 24, 2010 – For the first time, a new independent poll shows Republican candidate for Governor Mark Neumann beating Democrat Tom Barrett by a wider margin than Neumann’s primary election opponent. The just-released poll from Public Policy Polling shows Neumann defeating Barrett 43-38. By comparison, Scott Walker defeats Barrett 42-39. In addition, Neumann has strong support among independents, with a double-digit lead against Barrett. Neumann is up 43-26. This represents a continuing surge of momentum in Neumann’s favor. Last November, the same polling firm showed Barrett defeating Neumann 41-39. “Mark Neumann is not only best-positioned to defeat Tom Barrett this November, but Mark also has all of the positive momentum,” Neumann campaign manager Chip Englander said. “Mark’s positive messages are resonating, his TV and radio campaign is now in its second month, and Mark is connecting directly with folks on Main Streets across Wisconsin. Obviously people are recognizing that Mark is best positioned to lead Wisconsin forward.”