Gov. Wilson ahead

REPUBLICAN Governor Pete Wilson, who less than a year ago was running 17 points behind his Democratic challenger, has assumed the lead in the California governor's race, according to a poll published Friday.

The Field Poll showed Governor Wilson with 46 percent support among registered voters compared to 43 percent for state Treasurer Kathleen Brown. Eleven percent were undecided.

The findings represent a dramatic about-face in Field Poll results. In four surveys taken last year, Brown led Wilson by margins ranging from 13 to 23 points. A new Los Angeles Times poll conducted earlier this month found similar results. In both cases, crime has proven itself to be an issue.