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Campaign Crawlers
Winner Take All
Mitt Romney recaptures his frontrunner mojo in Florida.
NAPLES, Fla. — Mitt Romney’s midday rally here was over, but most of the estimated 2,000 Republicans who had come to see the Republican frontrunner were still milling around Sugden Plaza, many of them pushing toward the stage to shake hands with the candidate. Nearby, on the patio of McCabe’s Irish Pub at the corner of Fifth Avenue, one of Romney’s supporters sporting a “Mitt for President” button explained why she’s backing the former Massachusetts governor.
“I believe in what he wants to do and he’s Republican and a good man,” said the woman in gold hoop earrings, who gave her name only as Penny. A retiree originally from Illinois, Penny was asked her opinion of Romney’s chief opponent in Tuesday’s primary here, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich. “Don’t ask. You don’t want to know. I couldn’t say it.”
Reporters, analysts, and commentators have offered many explanations for Romney’s surging support in the Sunshine State. The New York Times devoted a 1,600-word article this weekend to examining Romney’s success in rebounding from a loss to Gingrich in the Jan. 21 South Carolina primary, attributing it to a strategic decision to have the mild-mannered Romney “drop his above-the-fray persona and carry the fight directly to his opponent.” Whatever the strategic secret, there is little doubt that it has worked. Romney, who trailed Gingrich by nine points in a Florida poll by Rasmussen taken Jan. 22, jumped ahead by 16 points in the Rasmussen poll taken Saturday. That kind of 25-point swing in just six days might seem unbelievable, were it not for other polls — by NBC News and the Miami Herald — confirming Romney’s sudden double-digit lead among Florida Republican voters.
One of Romney’s top advisers, Eric Ferhnstrom, gave his own one-sentence analysis at a rally Friday in Orlando: “Newt hasn’t won a day since he won South Carolina.” From that perspective — viewing the campaign as a day-by-day battle — it’s hard to argue with Ferhnstrom’s blunt interpretation. Gingrich has been thrown on the defensive by the newly aggressive Romney campaign, and Gingrich’s attempted counter-attacks arguably have worsened his standing with Florida voters. On ABC Sunday, Gingrich called Romney “blatantly dishonest” and said Romney’s character is a “serious problem.” But does Gingrich really want to make the Florida primary about “character”? It is difficult to imagine that old-fashioned Republican voters here — a state where retirees may actually be a majority of the GOP electorate — would judge the twice-divorced Gingrich as having more “character” than Romney, who has been married to the same woman for 42 years. Although allegations against Gingrich by his ex-wife Marianne apparently did not hurt him in South Carolina, it may be that Newt’s transgressions (about which our editor R. Emmett Tyrrell, Jr. wrote last week) are not viewed forgivingly by Floridians.
In that sense, Romney could have been accused of making a veiled “personal attack” during Sunday’s rally in downtown Naples merely by introducing his own wife. “There was a time back in high school that a girl I knew in elementary school became much more interesting,” Romney told the crowd in Sugden Plaza. “You see, Ann and I went to the same elementary school. She was in second grade, I was in fourth. I didn’t notice her then. But when she was just about 16, I noticed in a big way. We were at a party together at a friend’s house. She had come with someone else. I went to her date and I said, ‘Look, I live closer to Ann than you do. Can I give her a ride home for you?’ He said, ‘Sure.’ We’ve been going steady ever since. My sweetheart, Ann Romney.”
The implied contrast with Gingrich’s troubled marital history was not lost on a veteran political reporter who stood near me amid the crowded plaza. “Zing! He’s killing him,” said the correspondent, relishing Romney’s careful rhetorical knife-work. After Romney’s lovely blonde wife had spoken, the candidate himself took the microphone and began laying into Gingrich directly. “He’s now finding excuses everywhere he can,” Romney said of Gingrich. “He’s on TV this morning going from station to station complaining about what he thinks were the reasons he thinks he’s had difficulty here in Florida. But you know, we’ve got a president who has a lot of excuses, and the excuses are over, it’s time to produce.” Romney then said, “The reason that Speaker Gingrich has been having a hard time in Florida is that the people of Florida have watched the debates, have listened to the speaker, have listened to the other candidates and have said, ‘You know what, Mitt Romney’s the guy we’re going to support.’”
And it may actually be that simple. It might also be that affluent retirees in places like Naples, where the so-called “one percent” come to live out their golden years in gated golf-course communities, were offended by Gingrich’s populist attacks on Romney’s career at the Bain Capital investment firm. Although Gingrich backed off that line of attack after being criticized for arguments that echoed anti-capitalist complaints of the “Occupy Wall Street” movement, resentment may linger among upscale retirees whose income is largely derived from investment earnings. But the gray-haired residents of South Florida who comprise a core constituency for Romney also keenly feel the loss of asset-value caused by the collapse of the housing bubble. Many who are currently “underwater” on their mortgages are worried about selling their homes in such a depressed marked. And Romney didn’t hesitate to remind his Naples audience of Gingrich’s connection to that issue.
“Mister Speaker, your trouble in Florida is not because the audience is too quiet or too loud, or because you have opponents that are tough,” Romney said, mocking Gingrich’s complaints about two recent televised debates. “Your problem in Florida is that you worked for Freddie Mac at a time when Freddie Mac was not doing the right thing for the American people.”
Romney’s words emphasized the message of attack ads aired in Florida both by his own campaign and by Restore Our Future, a so-called “super PAC” that supports him. Between the two entities, the pro-Romney effort has spent nearly $7 million in Florida, according to the Associated Press, more than three times the reported $2.2 million spent by the Gingrich campaign and his “super PAC,” Winning Our Future. But if Romney wins Tuesday’s primary here, the disproportion will be far greater than 3-to-1, because Florida awards convention delegates on a winner-take-all basis, and the loser will leave the Sunshine State with nothing to show for his effort except the embarrassment of defeat.
About the Author
Robert Stacy McCain is co-author (with Lynn Vincent) of Donkey Cons: Sex, Crime, and Corruption in the Democratic Party (Nelson Current). He blogs at The Other McCain.
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Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 1.30.12 @ 6:27AM
From the movie The Hustler:
Bert Gordon: You got talent.
Fast Eddie: I got talent? So what beat me?
Bert Gordon: Character.
Jack in Wi.| 1.30.12 @ 6:38AM
Romney is the flim flam man with the more apealing persona. Nutt was never going to be the nominee. He just has too much baggage to ever get near the White House. I have said for months that theire are only 2 people running who could beat Obama. Mitt and Ron Paul. Mitt, I believe, will be a disaster like GW Bush. But at least he is somewhat sane, unlike Nutt.
Clint| 1.30.12 @ 9:24AM
From The Movie: The RINO
Bert Gordon: Look At Mittens Over There In The Corner. He Ain't Got No Character.
Fast Eddie: Why Bert ?
Bert Gordon: Because That Cat, Mittens Flip Flopped on TARP, Immigration, Abortion, Gun Control. That's Why Fast Eddie.
Fast Eddie: You Da Man, Bert.
The Republican Establishment| 1.30.12 @ 11:03AM
Attention Tea Party: We all enjoy Newt Gingrich trash talking President Obama, food stamp president, Saul Alinsky… But given the all positive economic news of late it is going to be nearly impossible, for our (The Republican Establishment) candidate Mitt Romney, to defect President Obama. This protracted primary is costing us (The Republican Establishment) a lot of money. This money would be better spent in the general election against the popular incumbent would it not? So, Tea Party it is time to get behind Mitt Romney.
We promise to pretend because of the Tea Parity insistence to cut the budget again :)
Vern Crisler| 1.30.12 @ 11:17AM
Sorry Republican Establishment; we're not sunshine conservatives. Conservatives must stick to principle. If that means going through a "Valley Forge" period where we have to starve for awhile, it'll only make us stronger for the future.
Al Adab| 1.30.12 @ 12:27PM
Estab:
Romney likewise should withdraw. All the candidates need to meet together (in that smoke filled room) and pick someone who can win in November. They have spent too much energy and treasure hurting each other for us to remain confident about the general. The primary system delivers nominees who continue to collect a plurality and lose elections. The quality of candidates chosen through the convention process was superior to those we get through primaries.
PCP Smoker| 1.30.12 @ 9:29PM
I think their message is more like, "Come on guys, let's give Obama a break. He's really popular with the upper class, the media, moderates, and not those...you know, Palin-types. Come on, we have a great concession speech prepared. After all, we don't want to be seen as RACISTS, do we? I mean, we don't want the news cycle to start with the usual "GOP:RACIST" stuff, do you? Well, come on, be good guys, be good Republicans, and give us a hand. Just lay down the fight, let Obama win this time, and we'll REALLY, REALLY, REALLY come back in 2016. What do you say? Oh, by the way, can you also give us money, do our dirty work, and oh...change your clothes and don't talk about God? It's rather E-M-B-A-R-R-A-S-S-I-N-G, you know. Oh, lastly, Obama is wanting to play golf with us, would you caddie for us?"
spike59| 1.31.12 @ 6:37AM
From the movie CAMPAIGN 2012
Reality: Ron Paul is TOAST
Clint: But we have THREE WHOLE DELEGATES!
Reality: Huntsman slunk off in disgace with TWO..Paul is stuck in permanent fourth (out of 4) and sinking
Clint: The Tea Party Express is...somewhere, doing...something...
Reality: The Tea Party Express has sent a telegram: "DrRonPaul, quit making us look like fools and STFU"
Finrod| 1.30.12 @ 2:03PM
Ann Romney should consider herself very lucky, because she's the *only* subject that Mitt Romney has never flip-flopped on.
Dai Alanye | 1.30.12 @ 3:03PM
Zing!
Diogenes| 1.30.12 @ 2:07PM
NO Kidding!!! ~S~ I remember the scene, after the break, Jackie Gleason comes out, freshly groomed, slapping talc from his hands... "LEt's play some pool!"
My Dad saw Fats and Moscone play for 22 hours in Alexandria, VA. He bought a table, put it in the basement and used it about 50 times. I spent My "homework time" smacking balls in pockets before they came home from work. I bought a 'Cuda in College with the cash I earned shooting stick.
Alan Brooks| 1.30.12 @ 3:04PM
thank God Newt (apparently) is going down, I'd rather have Nixon's ghost for president than Newt- ANY president's ghost rather than Newt for president; any presidents' ghosts that is, save for LBJ and Carter.
Margie| 1.30.12 @ 6:13PM
You believe in God??
Alan Brooks| 1.30.12 @ 6:24PM
the Black Lesbian God, Marge. She wants to go shopping with you:
to buy the complete 'Ellen Degeneres Show' DVD collection in HD.
Margie| 1.30.12 @ 9:18PM
The God of the Bible is my God.
You can keep yours, I'm not interested.
jane| 1.31.12 @ 12:03PM
Marge you just got a taste of a typical romney voter. They are mean and vicious just like tbeir candidate
Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 1.30.12 @ 6:27AM
From the movie The Hustler:
Bert Gordon: You got talent.
Fast Eddie: I got talent? So what beat me?
Bert Gordon: Character.
richard ryan| 1.30.12 @ 8:12AM
Romney and Gingrich may both have character problems. For whatever reason, Newt's transgressions do not bother me as much. His departure from the Speakership seems to have been done with an interest of the American people held first. He admitted his mistake, and hundreds of other bogus charges by the then recently red-faced Democrats and establishment RINOs were totally baseless. It just doesn't surprise me that Romney has middled his way through the issues with the primary interest being his political ambition. And the fact that he weaseled into another man's date just seems to fit right in with my theory. He'll do what it takes to get what he wants.
Vern Crisler| 1.30.12 @ 9:22AM
I agree. Romney is a snake, and will be a disaster for the Republican party in the general. All those Republican whores in Florida, who have sold their political souls to the man spreading all the dollars around, have just guaranteed Obama's reelection.
And where are all those conservative pimps who are pushing Romney, where are they going to go after Romney loses? Are they going to start salivating at the next moderate candidate who comes along?
Republicanism is dead, and conservatism is not far behind.
Lyneuss Fields | 1.30.12 @ 12:43PM
It's a fact that 1 out of 5 conservatives will not support Romney, or any other Mormon, for President of The United States.
Finrod| 1.30.12 @ 2:04PM
Being a Mormon has nothing to do with it.
Being a lying suckweasel has everything to do with it.
Lyneuss Fields | 1.30.12 @ 3:13PM
Welcome to The Church of "JESUS CHRIST" of Latter-day Saints. Mitt Romney like every other priesthood holder of this sect are trained, pathological liars.
http://lyneussfields.blogspot......gious.html
Diogenes| 1.30.12 @ 2:08PM
it'a ABOUT TIME!
Butch| 1.30.12 @ 5:31PM
I'm glad someone else noticed the date thing, too, Richard. I had a hard time believing that a guy would give up his go-home makeout opportunity just because some other guy asked him to. Maybe those Morman guys are different; a Southerner risked getting socked in the jaw just for asking. Never saw it in my time, by the way.
Adjoran| 1.31.12 @ 3:27AM
Baloney - Newt only resigned because he couldn't be reelected by the conservatives in the Republican Caucus. He was determined to run for a third two-year term but quit when he realized he couldn't win, so resigned from Congress rather than take a step down from his lofty perch.
Newt Gingrich has never done anything for anyone but himself, and anyone who ever trusted him was stabbed in back sooner or later. That's why the people who served with him have NOT lined up to endorse him. He's a double-crossing jerk who treats conservatives like dirt when it suits him.
Clint| 1.30.12 @ 9:36AM
From the movie The RINO:
Bert Gordon: You got talent.
Fast Eddie: I got talent? So what beat me?
Bert Gordon: Crony Capitalist Fat Cat Money, Dumb Ass.
Dai Alanye | 1.30.12 @ 3:07PM
What! no chickenhawks?
Ken (Old Texican)| 1.30.12 @ 7:08AM
Hi Robert Stacy.
Still playing the old inevitability game I see.
Timothy L. Pennell| 1.30.12 @ 10:14AM
Indeed. There's something about these writers. Every one of them is in the tank for Rombo. Perhaps, R. Emmett is in need of a "BACKER" if you know what I mean?
The Establishment Republicans are "ALL IN" when it comes to Romney. His lack of ANY Conservative Credentials, be damned.
I don't like him. I don't like the SIGHT of him. I want someone who's gonna Punch the other side IN THE FACE. We can't afford a guy who's gonna Go Along to Get Along. That's what's gotten us here.
Ambition can be a wonderful thing, if what you seek is good. Focus, and Single Mindedness can be admirable qualities, if the end goal is something beneficial to you, and your fellow man.
When these things are put in to play, for the purpose of Attaining POWER? They become Ugly, and Disfigured, as does the person wielding them.
"What does it profit a man, to gain the whole world, and lose your immortal soul?"
I know that I'm always writing this, but I believe that it bears REPEATING.
Don't you?
Occam's Tool| 1.30.12 @ 10:50AM
Romney needs to be willing to punch Obama twice as hard as he did Gingrich if he gets in. I'm not sure he has the guts to do so.
Timothy L. Pennell| 1.30.12 @ 11:11AM
Not a chance. It'll be Obama vs. McCain, all over again.
Rocco| 1.30.12 @ 12:25PM
Exactly. Once the other side rolls out the race card in the general, and you know they will among other things, Willard will roll over and play dead like McCain. I can see it coming, sad to say. The republican leadership has no balls, to put it bluntly.
Occam's Tool| 1.30.12 @ 8:02PM
Well, you know the way I would play it---show re-enactments of the cop Dorhn killed getting killed painfully with nails and then juxtaposing it with Obama gladhanding her in her home. In addition, find out if the "light loafers" club in Chicago rumor has legs. In addition, obtain, "with discretion" as Joel Cairo would say, Obama's Harvard grades and Occidental and Columbia grades. Discuss how Michelle Obama cut off poor people from medical care in Chicago and how Obama cut off scholarships to poor Black kids. Then go after Obama for increasing unemployment among Blacks.
In the meantime, constantly point out that his dad was an asshole and his momma was a Commie. Over and over and over again. Nothing but groin punches, 24/7/365, until November 6. And those punches should start now.
Kade| 1.30.12 @ 12:37PM
Their souls are all full of avarice and love of power -- trumps love of country every time.
Diogenes| 1.30.12 @ 2:09PM
I can NOT believed you ASKED this question of a Republican!
Al Adab| 1.30.12 @ 10:18AM
The only potential good news out of this would be if in fact Romnay could carry FL in November. Along with VA, NC and Ohio, Florida is one of the states whose electoral votes will decide the election.
There is little point in defeating Obama with a traditional, old line republican when we have a great need for a Conservative President. Only the GOP establishment wants Romney, yet his constant plurality may be enough to gain him the nomination. Why do we continue to follow these accomodationists to defeat?
Margie| 1.30.12 @ 9:20PM
No repenting yet today I see, Ken.
"He who speaks the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness utters deceit." Prov. 12:17.
God requires you to repent of your false accusations against me.
If you refuse to, you are going to Hell.
martin j smith| 1.30.12 @ 7:28AM
But suppose Romney wins but-turns off say 3-5% of the potential voters. Do you care or is this part of the plan to allow Obama to win ?
PCC| 1.30.12 @ 7:28AM
Well, if he's "still playing the inevitability game," he's winning.
martin j smith| 1.30.12 @ 7:38AM
I am glad to here that Newt is saying he will stay in the race till the convention and I hope he gives Romney a bad beating because he deserves it. Also there is at least one Poll in Fla that shows New is moving up so I say--lets waite and see what the results are but do not forget there are 53 more states to go ( this is the Obama Math )
Kade| 1.30.12 @ 8:09AM
Newt certainly did not help himself by calling Romney anti-immigrant for not wanting amnesty in the last debate.
But if Romney wins Florida the biggest thanks should go to Rush who with Carl Rove relentlessly led the bogus anti-capitalist Bain charge for 2 weeks and then piled on Newt big time repeating coordinated lies on bloody Thursday. Rush cleverly walked away from this the next day but the debate damage to Newt was already done. To cap it off Rush then praised Santorum and urged him to stay till the primary end thus splitting the conservative vote.
SUBVET| 1.30.12 @ 1:06PM
All these polls are just part of the propaganda machine to get US to think IT'S OVER Romney is your man.
I say take a stand and fight untill the last bullett and then don't forget your knife...we need to gut this old elephant.......I swore to uphold and defend the constitution in 1965 and nothing has changed.
Gut em Newt----
PCP Smoker| 1.30.12 @ 9:20PM
You sound like a nuc to me. What boat? When? East or West or Hawaii? If you are a coner, then God bless you.
Mimi| 1.30.12 @ 7:58AM
We can't judge a man by his past CHARACTER...especially when we know he has changed...let us judge the man today...The Presidency is too important this year !We choose who will bring us back toward our greatness...to fiscal security or keep the status -quo with no movement for another 4 years.
Newt 's PLANS are BOLD and will have us turned around quicker and on to our future, he has the know-how and strength to lead us... he definately has the better CHARACTER if all things are considered. It has been said he could be AMERICA's CHURCHILL....That I don't know, History will judge....and yes, these are historical times....WE NEED someone just like ....NEWT !
Indy| 1.30.12 @ 8:02AM
Both Mitt and Newt are disgraceful, they should be using the campaigns to educate voters. Talk about the debt / GDP ratio, national debt, Fed as a tool to manage the ecomony holding down interest rates through 2014!!!!!! How does that impact seniors who need safe investments but cannot earn a decent return, they lose ground with inflation. I'm disgusted with these awful candidates. The IMF wants significantly more money to keep EU from crashing and the average voter has no understanding of what that means to the US taxpayer.
Dmac| 1.30.12 @ 9:32AM
I'm much more concerned with the younger generation than the senior generation. The young have nothing at all to look forward too. The current generation of retired folks or those about to retire have it pretty damn good all considered. Never has one generation had so many government benefits bestowed upon them as the current generation of retirees. The same generation that started all this internationlism crap. Worry about your kids and quit worrying about yourself.
Indy| 1.30.12 @ 10:18AM
"Worry about your kids and quit worrying about yourself."
Excuse me, I worry about all Americans including Seniors. I am terrified for my kids. I just used the comment about interest rates to illustrate a point. I am struggling with my own small investments, where to put savings to be safe yet earn a return.
Your comment is so negative on retirees, you are talking about my parents, wonderful people who have given so much to this country, my father, a proud legal immigrant who still volunteers in his community, pays his taxes, draws on his retirement that he earned from his employer. My parents are not the reason we have internationalism and there are many others like them. Both of my parents taught me about hard work, earning and not taking from others, giving to others less fortunate through charity, not the government. My Dad is a model citizen, once he earned his citizenship, he has never missed a vote which is more than most Americans. My mother so much wanted to vote Obama out of office, she passed away and will not be able to do that but she will be with me in spirit on Election Day. She did not take from this country, she gave and she gave generously through her work and her community service and she voted every election.
God Bless our Seniors and all Americans who are the beacon of freedom, young or old, we stand together!
Dmac| 1.30.12 @ 10:30AM
I deserve much of the lashing you just gave me. I think we have mis-understood each other. I meant no offense to your parents personally. However, no one can argue the fact that current generation of retirees, I'm speaking of those who were too young to fight in WWII, have the best retirement benefits any generation of Americans has ever seen or benefited from. The prescription plan that the Bush admionistration passed has pushed me to the edge though. I don't care so much about my retirement or even yours Indy. We, just like our parents have sat idly while tow political parties have hijacked our government and its election process, and we damn well knew they were doing it. We can not plead ignorance, we knew what was going on and we chose to be silent about it. When what we should have been doing was turning off the TV and marching and screaming and demanding better of our elected leaders.
OIur childrens future is much bleaker looking thatn ours and certainly than our parents. Our generation is failing our children and we should be ashamed of it. We should fix it, even if it means marching on Washington D.C. to deliver a message to the politicians.
Just as the stock market has corrections, it is time, past time, for a correction to the attitude of our politicinas.
Indy| 1.30.12 @ 12:37PM
Dmac,
Peace, glad to be on the same team. I have always been interested in politics, I cannot recall when I became fully awakened, it was during the Bush years. Having marched on DC more than once and worked hard to make an impact in the 2010 elections, it has been more than discouraging to see the immediate capitulation in the Lame Duck session and then the same cave for CR, debt limit, etc. McConnell / Boehner / Cantor fight conservatives harder than they fight the left, Romney is cut from the same cloth.
One encouraging thought I left with after attending rallies in DC was that I have many who think like I do, so many seniors were there, they see what is happening, they are terrified for their kids / grandkids. I know my kids understand what is going on, some of their friends do as well but so many of our youth have come up through the schools of indoctrination, that's a lot of damage to undo and not much time to do it before it is too late.
Much of the blame is on the media who do nothing more than drive their agenda, so many Americans believe what is reported as news, the problems we face need more time to address than the 2 minute stories, many viewers have no idea how many stories never get reported, it takes work to be an informed voter. Many people know in their gut something is very wrong but who to trust?
richard ryan| 1.30.12 @ 10:55AM
this must be a big part of the republican nominee's plan against Obama. The facts and figures are very, very scary for our kids. Obama has nothing to offer them but more debt. I tell my kids that the natioanl debt burder they carry is at least 2x what they are hearing, because they will be one of the FEW taxpayers by the time they start working.
martin j smith| 1.30.12 @ 8:09AM
Indy you are correct and I think Newt would do better to talk about Obama's rotten policies and our debt etc. and then say that Romney is not talking about these matters. Did I say I dislike Romney--if not I do.
Kade| 1.30.12 @ 8:14AM
Yes, Indy hit the nail on the head – the IMF is planning another TARP-like bailout for socialist Europe and the conservative media is silent. At least Newt has agreed with Ron Paul that Helicopter Ben needs to be reigned in.
Indy| 1.30.12 @ 9:07AM
"the conservative media is silent"
Is there a conservative media anymore? I don't think so, they are overly focused on the campaign and asking stupid questions.
Commenters here and other sites could do a better job of asking questions, here's one I want to ask each candidate
George Soros is predicting the economic collapse which will lead to riots not just in EU but here in the US, he is also prediciting the government will be forced to use a heavy hand to control riots, if elected what will you do to protect individual liberties and enforce the rule of law?
http://www.theblaze.com/storie.....-collapse/
Why is the US Department of Homeland Security ramping up training exercises with joint military / metro police, i.e. LAPD? They know what's coming
http://www.alt-market.com/arti.....os-angeles
Occam's Tool| 1.30.12 @ 10:54AM
Soros is trying to CREATE those conditions, the malignant scumbag.
I wish we would focus on the issues, because Washington ain't Hollywood and Martin Sheen isn't the President.
Indy| 1.30.12 @ 12:42PM
Soros has a track record of creating a crisis and then swoops in to make his billions while destroying the wealth of millions. What has happened here in the US since Soros spoke recently? More OWS voiolence / arrests in Oakland, OSW calling for 1968 style protests in Chicago for the upcoming G8, who funds much of OWS? why Soros...I do not trust this man but he means what he says, a simple look to history validates this man is not to be taken lightly....why the silence in the media on this? They fear him and he owns them.
Indy| 1.30.12 @ 8:55AM
Just found this at verumserum...I only listened to the short clip of Newt's support for the individual mandate, will listen to the full audio later after work
I don't like any candidates, Newt supporters vote with your eyes open
"Gingrich Called for ObamaCare Mandate in May 2009, Said ObamaCare “Healthier…More Open” Process than HillaryCare"
http://www.verumserum.com/?p=37290
Finrod| 1.30.12 @ 2:09PM
The difference between Newt and Mitt is that Newt figured out eventually that Mandates Suck.
Mitt Romney, the Lying Suckweasel, still hasn't.
martin j smith| 1.30.12 @ 9:08AM
So Indy you like Obama ?
Indy| 1.30.12 @ 10:21AM
Not at all, OMG Obama Must Go
I will have to hold my nose again and vote ABO, we have a poor field of candidates to choose from, by the time the primary rolls around to my state, the nominee will likely be chosen. I am focused on helping true conservatives in Senate / House races.
POST American| 1.30.12 @ 9:41AM
-------Putting aside the '90's Show' cardboard------
"The Federal Reserve has pumped
so many BILLIONS into [--NAZI--]
Germany that they dare NOT
name the total."
Rep. Charles McFadden
1935
(the height of the FED instigated
'Great Depression')
"America better watch it or in
a couple of decades we're going to
be a minstrel show -----for RED China."
-Gore Vidal
1985
(the Reagan heyday)
A minstrel show -----and EUGENISTS
turkey shoot.
"Unless we REALIZE the unthinkable
has already been done to us
----WE'RE FINISHED."
------------THE REPUBLIC HAS FALLEN-----------
Rockefeller/ Ford/ Carnegie/ Gates
----------SOROS-ROT-child------------
Unaccountable, psychopathic, fractional
reserve USURY
Capstone EUGENISTS et al
"SIN is NEVER still ---but ALWAYS
linked. ALWAYS on the move."
-Jonathan Edwards
American Calvinist
ALWAYS
"Religion is the KEY to history,
and among the christians ONLY the
Calvinists had the faculty for self-government.
And ONLY the Calvinists would fight."
-Lord Acton
Atheists and others TAKE NOTE.
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 11:02AM
Romney is poised to win in FL, sabotaging our democratic process with his "Bain $" and "Mormon Trickery", reclaiming the front-runner status.
It ain't over yet.
Gingrich made a crucial mistake undermining the power of "dirty campaign" such as "negative ads" and "grassroots organization." After winning SC, Gingrich realized that it was a two men race: Romney and Gingrich. Romney anticipated that earlier in the primary and armed himself with tons of money, negative ads, and ground works. Romney also outpaced Gingrich in the debates, falsely accusing Gingrich over Freddie Mac, while 25% of nation's fore-closers occur in FL. Romney politicized that sentiment among the voters, who have been hit hard by fore-closers.
Gingrich had no answers to Romney's blitz of media attacks.
Gingrich needs to focus on fundraising and ground organization to competing in the upcoming contests: AZ, MI, CO, NV, are still up for grabs. He needs to revive his campaign.
Romney still is vulnerable, even after winning in FL.(according to the polls, Romney gets it)
Bob Bohannan| 1.30.12 @ 11:17AM
It would appear that the Florida Republican Party cares not for the voters of the second, third and fourth place finishers. Perhaps the Florida Republican Party does not want their votes in November as well. Any state political party that has "Winner Take All" rules pretty much is saying that they don't care one whit about the views of others. Get in line, do as you're told and shut up, says the Florida GOP. But, to paraphrase Ernest Hemingway, perhaps this is a "Winner Take Nothing" approach.
Butch| 1.30.12 @ 5:46PM
Actually never thought about that before, but you're right. The guy gets 40 percent of the vote and all of the delegates. If they are going to be winner-take-all, they need to have a runoff. Romney v. Not Romney would be an interesting election, even in Florida.
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 12:38PM
Romney's "Blood Money"
Romney spent $15 million in FL, while Gingrich spent only $3 million.
Mormons are banking on Romney, hoping that he 'll capture the GOP nod and beat Obama in 2012.
It ain't happen.
Romney will be derailed after the FL Primary, where he will have to face more conservative voters in NV, CO, MN, AZ.
No country for RINO!
Al Adab| 1.30.12 @ 1:12PM
Bill:
Many, many Mormons in NV and AZ. Quite a few in CO as well. The Mormon church has wanted a President since Joseph Smith himself ran.
That said, it is not his sect which disturbs me but his lack of policy and his establishmentarianism. Mitt, like his father, opposed everything the Conservative Movement stood for.
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 1:29PM
Romney is a "New England big-government liberal RINO."
-Romneycare
-pro abortion
-pro gay marriage
-pro gun control
-pro cap & trade
Gingrich will pull out anther "come from behind" victory in FL.
FL never picks the RINO, FL picks the "conservative" candidate. That's Newt Gingrich.
RCV| 1.30.12 @ 3:10PM
Florida voted solidly for McCain in 2008
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 3:26PM
Because McCain won in SC, and FL belongs to the South. No Country for "MA liberal RINO."
RCV| 1.30.12 @ 7:45PM
Gingrich is history, bill, and will head back to the dustbin from which he came to try and make this comeback. And if you and your tea party friends aren't happy with Mitt Romney and the establishment types who still run the GOP, you can always go and start a new party. Be my guest!
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 8:02PM
RCV, Gingrich trailed Romney in the polls, and won in SC, don't forget, he will upset the establishment GOPers and come from behind to win in FL.
If Gingrich gets the GOP nod, Obama is DOOMED!
David| 1.30.12 @ 12:41PM
We had better get behind Santorum, now, with our words and our money.
Try imagining what the dems and liberal media can say about Romney and Gingrich. Try imagining how similar they are on several important issued when compared with Bam Bam. Try imagining all of Romney's political baggage, and Newt's political AND personal baggage.
Now, try imagining what they say about Santorum. Oh no, he supported Specter. Oh no, he voted against the National Right to Work Act as senator of PA (and now says as prez he WILL support a national right to work law.
Come on folks, Santorum has been the adult in this race.............period.
Finrod| 1.30.12 @ 2:18PM
The only problem with Santorum is that hardly any more people support him than support that old racist Ron Paul. Has Santorum ever polled at more than 20 percent nationally?
SweetSweetRain| 1.30.12 @ 1:47PM
I'm voting AGAINST Obama.
Love reading R. S. McCain.
PoliticalPunch | 1.30.12 @ 2:04PM
When will the establishment learn?
So let me get this straight... the loser that lost to McCain (another loser) in 2008 will beat the winner of 2008? Welcome to crazy world.
Romney's "work product" was Romneycare. Say it: Romneycare.
I would add the 800lb gorilla won't be wall street but church street. "Things like Mormon doctrine on black people will be an easy win for a black president."
Al Adab| 1.30.12 @ 2:48PM
Good point there Punch:
This is the guy the GOP rejected in 08 in favor of the more conservative McCain. Take the more conservative candidates who, instead of trying to be as "civilized" as McCain (his mistake) will take the issues to the DEMs. That party is no longer a viable governing alternative for America. They must be rejected.
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 2:43PM
FL Primary Results:
1st: Gingrich
2nd: Romney
3rd: Santorum
4th: Paul
Gingrich stuns America!
RCV| 1.30.12 @ 3:12PM
Gingrich stuns America alright...over and over again!
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 3:27PM
Because Gingrich is invincible!
jstwndring| 1.30.12 @ 3:36PM
All you "conservatives" who love Obamacare, by all means vote for Mitt. He'll make sure we keep it.
Anyone else here notice who's endorsing Romney compared to who's endorsing Newt? Establishment, country-club blue-bloods are endorsing Romney. Conservatives are endorsing Newt. Just wanna put that out there for the hard of discerning.
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 3:38PM
Just So You Know!
Gingrich stepped down, not in disgrace, but on his own discretion.
-Orchestrated the 1994 GOP Revolt
-Balanced the budget 4 times
-Reformed the welfare
-Impeached Bill Clinton
The Dems were bitter during his tenure of speaker because Gingrich was a "rock-solid conservative."
Margie| 1.30.12 @ 6:21PM
These are the reasons I will vote for Newt. This is what is in him.. he can ignore the Democrats and do what's right, IF he really wants to.
And as long as he hears from US.
Bill| 1.30.12 @ 8:03PM
Amen. Welcome to the Team Newt!
Margie| 1.30.12 @ 9:27PM
Well, I will vote for whoever becomes the Republican nominee, and if that's Newt, he's got my vote.
Personally, I might just rather see Santorum get the nomination though.. but don't think it's going to happen.
We shall see if he gains in the polls.
PCP Smoker| 1.30.12 @ 9:17PM
Not that I disagree with you, but do you think anyone is listening? Read the word spoken by the Romneybot, "I believe in what he wants to do and he's Republican and a good man." What does he want to do. No answer there. No answer is needed. He's a Republican and a good man. This can be Ford, Dewey, Dole, McCain, heck this can even be Wendel Wilkey. They are all good Republicans, and they are all good men.
Citizen Jerry| 1.30.12 @ 4:28PM
Shouldn't the headline read "Winner Take Half"?
I thought Florida was penalized half its delegate votes for moving up its primary to lock down the nomination for Willard before anyone else could get any traction.
RCV| 1.30.12 @ 7:47PM
The RNC will decide if Mitt needs those delegates before they make a final decision at the convention. That's the way it works.
Occam's Tool| 1.30.12 @ 8:06PM
Any way it comes out, RCV, I think you'll still owe me a steak.
RCV| 1.30.12 @ 10:19PM
We shall see, Occam my friend, we shall see. Having Gingrich as the nominee and following your recommended strategy would certainly improve my odds!
PCP Smoker| 1.30.12 @ 9:14PM
"I believe in what he wants to do and he's Republican and a good man,"
That sentence says it all. This idiot doesn't care if the country is going to hell or not. This could 1948 for all this dipshit cares, the fact is, Romney is a republican and he is a good man. Not only is he a republican, he is the kind of republican DC Conservatives are supporting.
If you substitute McCain in that sentence, you would not even be able to tell the difference. Time to get off opposition politics, it's time to get on the front row seat of the welfare bandwagon.
POST American| 1.30.12 @ 10:00PM
"---And Governor Romney, and
Mr. Gingrich ----PLEASE----explain,
where were you during the handover
of the US economy to RED China?"
------the QUADRILLION dollar question
you'll NEVER hear.
Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel | 1.31.12 @ 10:23PM
The last couple of weeks leading up to the Florida primary vote have been most telling about Romney and Karl Rove and Matt Drudge type buddies.
Romney has proven he will stoop as low as any politician will go to destroy another Republican candidate. Should he be successful in being the GOP nominee, Romney and his Republican country club establishment kind, will have to reap the sorry results of having alienated some of the GOP Conservative base.
I would not be surprised that a significant percentage of this base will not vote for Romney as a payback for having him shoved down their throats as the milquetoast nominee. And, part of the scenario of them not voting for the Mass. moderate, will be that he lacks a clear difference from Obama. But, that should not matter for the GOP establishment, because Romney will [supposedly] deliver all those coveted Independents to achieve victory in the 2012 general election. The Karl Roves and Ann Coulters won't be happy with anything less than another John McCain.........