Kate Forbes, Ash Regan and Humza Yousaf are competing to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as SNP leader and first minister.
over Scottish government plans to make it easier for someone to change their legally-recognised sex, said the legislation was "flawed and does not command public support".
The poll also suggested that the cost of living crisis was regarded as the most important issue, followed by the economy, the NHS and education. Only 5% said they thought that the new leader's faith or personal beliefs were important.John Swinney and Nicola Sturgeon have both questioned whether someone with Ms Forbes' beliefs would be an appropriate person to lead the SNP
Mr Yousaf has faced criticism over the state of the NHS, particularly waiting times in Scotland's hospitals. Opposition parties have claimed he was the "worst health secretary since devolution" and that he should be sacked rather than promoted. The rapid pace, they say, unfairly favours Humza Yousaf and Kate Forbes who have higher profile roles in government and, in theory at least, better name recognition among party members.
The first poll of party supporters comes with some caveats, and was taken before Ms Regan really got going - but the fact that it suggested a substantial lead for Ms Forbes may be a wake-up call.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
SNP leadership: Ash Regan questions role of Sturgeon's husbandAsh Regan says Peter Murrell's role is a 'clear conflict of interest' as she formally launches her leadership campaign.
Read more »
SNP leadership hopeful defends decision to send children to a private schoolAn SNP leadership contender has defended her decision to send her children to an elite, fee-paying private school
Read more »
Nominations to close in SNP leadership raceThree MSPs - Kate Forbes, Humza Yousaf and Ash Regan - are expected to be confirmed as the contenders.
Read more »
Final three in SNP leadership contest to replace Nicola Sturgeon confirmedHumza Yousaf, Kate Forbes and Ash Regan have all made it onto the ballot, with voting due to take place next month.
Read more »
Kate Forbes and SNP leadership: Is there a place for religion in politics?'She has sparked a debate, mostly about her own views on equality issues but it also raises questions about the role of people who express a faith can or should have in political decision-making.' - patersonHT
Read more »