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I checked in with Steffen Schmidt, Professor of Political Science at Iowa State University and long time guru on the Iowa Caucus. His take on the GOP race is interesting.

Is Thompson making an impact? "Fred has risen in the polls but there is little talk or buzz about him."

Is Huckabee for real there? " He is very well liked and I believe and always thought from months ago that he was a sleeper. He is a former governor and a minister and a likeable man so why should he not connect? He has now risen to # 2 in Iowa."

Is Romney maintaining his lead and enthusiasm? "In Iowa Romney is softening as other candidates slowly build % but he still has a 14% spread with 28% ... but that's very weak for a front runner."

Professor Schmidt also noted the substantial decline in McCain's fortunes to single digits. Again, in light of this, it makes perfect sense for Romney to spend three days in a state which at first blush some might conclude is in the bag.