The Hiller Instinct: Suffolk Poll: Presidential Race in New Hampshire

Mitt Romney is already just about there in the Granite State. He may be in second place in national GOP polls, but he's second to none in New Hampshire.

Likely Republican Primary voters say he's the candidate they trust the most, and that they support him even though he's changed his position on important issues.

"This is a Romney rout," said David Paleologos, Director of the Political Research Center at Suffolk University.

Head-to-head in our exclusive 7 News Suffolk University poll, it’s Romney on top with 41%; then--far behind-- Ron Paul, 14%; Jon Huntsman,10%, Rick Perry 8%, Michele Bachmann 5%; with 11% undecided.

"Mitt Romney is strong on two levels: he's not only the number one choice, but he's also the second choice of the other candidates. So if they don't run, Romney benefits again."

Romney's strength is reflected in direct comparisons with party frontrunner Rick Perry.

GOP primary voters say Romney would be better handling an international crisis; can be more trusted to say what he believes, even if it's unpopular; and would be better to have a beer with.

“I’m not sure I can get anyone to agree with me on here- on this panel,” presidential candidate Ron Paul said during the Tea Party debate.

If there's a back story in our poll, it's Ron Paul. After Romney, he's the most trusted candidate, and the candidate viewed most favorably.

"Ron Paul's the Rodney Dangerfield of this race--he's gotten no respect from anybody and he shows unbelievable promise," Paleologos said.

It's too soon to be conceding anyone anything, but even if Romney stays as strong in New Hampshire as he is right now--and wins the primary there—Rick Perry will still be a big problem for him.

Because where else does Romney win early? Probably not Iowa or South Carolina.

So, for Romney in New Hampshire, winning is not everything.

That’s my instinct.

Full Suffolk University poll: http://www.suffolk.edu/research/1450.html

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