Santorum in virtual tie with Mitt nationally; passes him in Michigan poll

Rick Santorum is now in a virtual tie with Mitt Romney for the lead as the favored candidate of the nation's Republicans. Santorum also has surged past Romney in Michigan, the state where Mitt grew up and where his dad was governor in the 'Sixties.

Ron Paul's national support has fallen to 8%, the lowest it's been all year.

The Michigan primary is February 28. A defeat for Romney would be a major blow to his aura of inevitability- and clearly establish Santorum as his only credible challenger.

HT: Drudge