Clinton runs up nine-point lead over Christie in 2016 presidential bid: Poll

Support between the two shifted largely among independent voters favouring Clinton 41 to 40 %.

 

Former secretary of state Hillary Clinton is ahead of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie for 2016 presidential bid, a new poll has said.

 

The new Quinnipiac University Poll found that Christie continues to face backlash from the George Washington Bridge scandal as the gap has widened between him and Clinton in a potential 2016 match-up.

 

According to Politico, the poll found that Christie, who led Clinton by one percentage point in December, dropped nine points and now trials Clinton 46 % to 38 %.

 

Support between the two, both considered top 2016 contenders, shifted largely among independent voters who now favour Clinton 41 to 40 %.

 

Christie previously had a notable 47 to 32 % lead in December among independents.

 

The poll found that Christie has also lost confidence among Americans who think he would make a good president, with only 35 % saying he would, down from 49 % in November.

 

Nevertheless, Christie still puts up the biggest challenge to Clinton compared to other possible GOP candidates for 2016.