DES MOINES, Iowa - December 19, 2011 - The continually evolving GOP presidential race has taken another twist, as Rep. Ron Paul (Tex.) has become the new frontrunner in Iowa.

According to a new poll release from Public Policy Poll, Paul has surged ahead at 23%, with Mitt Romney now in second place at 20%. Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich has seen a dramatic drop in support, falling to third at 14%.

Rep. Michele Bachmann (Minn.), Texas Governor Rick Perry, and Jon Huntsman are tied at 4%, while Gary Johnson is at the bottom with 2%.

Paul’s campaigning in Iowa has been the catalyst for the surge, as 22% think he’s run the best campaign in the state compared to only 8% for Gingrich and 5% for Romney.