Newt Gingrich takes lead in White House race

The Republican race to take on President Barack Obama for the White House had a clear leader today after Herman Cain quit and suggested he would back Newt Gingrich.

Two key polls placed the former Speaker well ahead of his main contender Mitt Romney in the fast-approaching Iowa caucuses following Mr Cain's decision to drop out amid allegations of an affair.

As the scramble to win over Mr Cain's supporters began today, sources in Washington said the former Godfather Pizza boss's representatives would meet Mr Gingrich's team.

Other polls today placed Mr Obama's rating at an all-time low but when put head-to-head with the leading Republican candidates, the President remained on top.