A new Mason-Dixon Florida poll shows Barack Obama ahead of John McCain by a single percentage point in Florida—a statistical tie—but also indicates that Mitt Romney as running mate would help McCain more than Gov. Charlie Crist in the state.

Telephone interviews for the poll was done Monday and Tuesday, meaning respondents would have been aware of Obama’s selection of Joe Biden as his running mate.

Floridians have also been exposed to more than $5 million worth of advertising by Obama in June and July. McCain has had less advertising exposure in Florida—he’s made no Florida-specific ad buys, but has had ad exposure from cable and national buys.

The poll of 625 registered voters showed Obama with 45 percent, McCain 44 percent and 11 percent undecided. The error margin is four points.

Respondents in the poll were also asked which running mate would make them more or less likely to vote for McCain.

With Romney as running mate, 32 percent said they’d be more likely to vote for him, and 16 percent said less likely; 52 percent said the choice would have no effect.

For Crist, 17 percent said more likely, 13 less likely and 70 said no effect.

McCain is expected to announce his choice Friday in Ohio.

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