PPP Poll: Romney Takes 5 Point Lead Over Santorum in Pa.

Republican presidential front-runner Mitt Romney leads rival Rick Santorum 42 percent to 37 percent among likely GOP primary voters in Santorum’s home state of Pennsylvania, according to a new survey from Public Policy Polling (PPP). Ron Paul places third with 9 percent support and Newt Gingrich fourth with 6 percent.

The numbers represent a significant reversal from the last PPP survey a month ago, which showed Santorum ahead 43 percent to 25 percent.

Former Pennsylvania Sen. Santorum is hoping that the April 24 Keystone State primary serves as his firewall, calling it a must-win state.

“The momentum in Pennsylvania is moving completely against Rick Santorum,” said PPP President Dean Debnam. “Mitt Romney has a great chance to deliver a final crushing blow to his campaign on April 24. A home-state loss would be incredibly embarrassing for Santorum.”

Only 36 percent of Republicans in Pennsylvania think Santorum has a realistic chance for the nomination, while 54 percent believe he doesn’t.