2014 Elections - John Dennis to Run for CA-12 Against Nancy Pelosi (D) – Receives Endorsement from Rand Paul

John Dennis, running against Nancy Pelosi, CA 12 - image from benswann.com

John Dennis, the Libertarian Leaning Republican will run against Nancy Pelosi, former Speaker of the House and infamous liberal firebrand, in 2014. This will be the third time Dennis will attempt to unseat Pelosi, in a district that had been gerrymandered to ensure her continued political career. It is considered one of the top 10 most gerrymandered Congressional Districts in the Country, making Pelosi appear incredibly safe. (PJ Media)

O n a recent, successful visit to the Valley, Senator Rand Paul suggested that Dennis would be a good candidate to run against Ms. Pelosi (San Francisco Chronicle). Today,Senator Paul took it a step further, officially endorsing Dennis, according to according to RandPAC

Dennis, although a Republican in a Democrat district is clearly undeterred. Suggested read: realclearpolics.com/Pelosi Challenger John Dennis has Bigger goals here.

To learn more about John Dennis, or contribute, volunteer, or lend a hand to unseat Nancy Pelosi – visit www.johndennisforcongress.com

Mitt Romney Expected To Win CT, DE, NY, PA, RI Republican Primaries April 23 – Newt Gingrich to Reassess His Campaign – Obama Clinches DNC Nomination

The 2012 Presidential Candidates: Mitt Romney (R) and Barack Obama

Mitt Romney is expected to add to his lead in the GOP primary race today by winning the five April 23rd GOP primary contests in five states: CT, DE, NY, PA and RI. (CNN) After Rick Santorum bowed out of the race, the two remaining challengers, Newt Gingrich and Ron Paul, would have little opportunity in theses state contests. Gingrich, who currently has 137 Delegates according to the New York Times, will reassessing his campaign after today’s primaries(WXIA-Atlanta). With Gingrich out of the race, Ron Paul, with fewer than 100 delegates, will be the last “competitor” Romney will face in the remaining contests. With Santorum’s exit, Romney literally became the presumptive nominee, given the low delegate count of the remaining candidates, and the number of available delegates remaining added to a dose of reality.

Turn-out is anticipated to be low in all five primary states – including the Democrat Primary’s, where Barack Obama is the only candidate on the ballot - MSNBC summed up the Democrat Primary contest as: Ho Hum Obama on Brink of The Democratic Nomination.

To say the least, the 2012 contest excitement collapsed after Rick Santorum excited the race – and that excitement was on the GOP side, with the most enthusiasm coming from political junkies, pundits, reporters and the various candidate supporters.

The next phase: picking the V.P. (once the nomination is secure by virtue of accumulated delegates on the GOP side), followed by the beginnings of the General Election Campaign. The debates between the two candidates: Mitt Romney and Barack Obama, might not be a “grab the popcorn” moment, but then again, Romney, who’s debate skills have sharpened in recent years, has a take no prisoners approach to the debate, and the President, who’s oratorical skills are the legend of the media, may be found to ramble on a bit if cornered – between the two candidates, it may end up being more entertaining than previously imagined. In addition, Romney, who has been seriously vetted during the primary process, leaves little for the President to attack: should he attack Romney’s Health Care Mandate as Governor - Or Romney’s change of heart on issues? (Notably both candidates have flipped and flopped over the course of the past four years with lightening speed.) Romney, on the other hand has mounds of ammunition, those relating to the economy, foreign policy, and scandals within the green energy companies which were propped up by the Administration (see Solyndra).

What is somewhat unfortunate, in any general election, is that the State’s who hold primary contests after March, are left out of choices, other than protest votes, should they not approve of a candidate. The last competitive race in a general election was in 2008 between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. The race ended with the June Primaries, and was settled at the Democrat National Convention by virtue of Super Delegate votes handing the nomination to Barack Obama. Clinton had the popular vote going into the Convention, the rest is, as they say, history.

GOP 2012 Update: Primary Schedule for March and Available Polls - Gingrich Out after AL, MI? - Analysis

Will Gingrich Suspend after AL and MS?(ABC News) giving Santorum the edge in a two-Man race? - image political ticker blog

The following States and Territories go to the polls through the end of March, to choose the GOP Presidential Nominee:
March 10th: Kansas, Virgin Islands, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, March 13: Alabama, Hawaii, Mississippi and American Samoa, March 17: Missouri, March 18th: Puerto Rico, March 20: Illinois and March 24th Louisiana. After March, there are 22 states left to weigh in on the process including: New York, California, Texas and Pennsylvania.

Polling for the March races:
In Alabama, Rick Santorum leads with a lead of 22.7% to Mitt Romney’s 18.7%, Newt Gingrich support has fallen from 26.9% to 13.8% in the latest poll from the Alabama State University’s Center for Leadership and Public Policy. A whopping 29.8% remain undecided with 15% voting for other candidates. A second poll taken a week prior by the Alabama Teachers Association (Union) gave Mitt Romney a lead over Santorum of 31.2 to 21.6%, with Gingrich also taking 21% of the vote. (Al.com)

In Kansas Rick Santorum is favored to win the Caucuses, according to Politico, while Romney is being supported by Bob Dole, and Newt Gingrich will not participate.

Mississippi, no polling yet released, however an article from Ya’ll Politics suggests that Mitt Romney could do the impossible and win the state, this is based on the fact that Romney’s locked up endorsements (and those endorsements are delegates) of most of the State’s GOP elected officials . The website suggest that the poll taken in Alabama by the Teachers Association that gave Romney a lead, (neglecting to put in the later poll which showed Romney losing ground and Santorum leading) as the predictor to give the race in Mississippi to Romney – simply because Alabama predicts how Mississippi will go. Using that logic, should Santorum win in Alabama, then he will also win in Mississippi – Using logic in general, there is no valid polling data to date.

Missouri, No Polling available

Hawaii, No Polling available

The territories including Puerto Rico – No Polling available

Missouri – No Polling Available

Louisiana – No Polling available

Illinois – No Polling Available

The lack of polling data this close to these contests denotes either a total lack of interest in the process going south, to the territories and mid-west for the balance of March or a lower prize allocation to the candidates. Delegates totals in the balance of March races total 367 (Alabama (50), Kansas (40) Puerto Rico (23), Guam (9), Virgin Islands (9), Marianas and American Samoa (18), Hawaii (20), Mississippi ( 40), Illinois (69), Missouri (52) and Louisiana (46) - Green papers.com).

Projecting based on past state history (conservative vs. moderate); Romney should take the states of Illinois, Hawaii and the territories. The balance of the Southern and Mid-western states where Romney has previously had problems in the south and mid-west (in 2008 and now in 2012), should go to Santorum.

On Gingrich: He is not competing in Kansas, and his strategy for a comeback in the south, although limited poll data exists (Alabama) does not look probable. According to an ABC News Story this morning, should Gingrich not win in both Alabama and Mississippi, it will be time to throw in the proverbial towel. At this point, one is wondering what the former Speaker hopes to gain by stating in a contest that is clearly shifted to a two-man race. It also makes one wonder what Gingrich hopes to achieve (his original intent was to stop Mitt Romney – however, the result has been to stop Rick Santorum – Santorum and Gingrich voters are usually simpatico, with many calling the other a first or second choice. Therefore, if Gingrich’s plan is to stop Mitt Romney, then he should take the risk and suspend his campaign prior to these two contests and let the chips fall where they may. If Gingrich were to release his delegates to Santorum and turn to endorse his former protégé, then it would give Santorum a clear advantage. However, if he is a true establishment Republican as some have suggested, his staying in the race, is not to defeat, but to protect the GOP Establishment choice, Mitt Romney. Newt Gingrich has been called arrogant, in his quest for the nomination, however, he is simply the brightest in the bunch – the aforementioned is pure speculation on the part of this blogger. The races going forward, it should be noted, are primarily winter take all.

This is not to say the race, even with Gingrich and of course, Ron Paul, included, will be decided in March or April, the fact is that George H Bush dropped his bid against Ronald Regan (Bush was the GOP Establishment candidate), in May of 1980.

Trump Endorses Mitt Romney – Let the Panic, Punch Lines and Punditry Begin - Analysis

Trump Endorses Romney - The "Thrill is lacking" - image inquisitr.com

From the Boston Globe: Donald Trump, Real Estate mogul, and reality television star has backed a GOP Candidate – the new American Idol, one Mitt Romney. Romney appeared somewhat “befuddled” during his endorsement by Trump in Las Vegas, according to the Boston Globe. That’s one version – there are several – over on the far left - Mother Jones speculates that the real reason Trump endorsed Romney was political in nature, that Romney needed a Trump endorsement instead of that endorsement going to Gingrich – in a tea-party infused vote-getting scheme, that also involved Trump holding Romney’s hand in public.. One can find articles outlining how Romney bought the endorsement, which makes little sense considering the wealth on both sides of this “deal”.

Endorsements, as far as they go, give publicity to both parties, unless of course, the endorsee has no access to airtime, or is in essence only known in a small circle – for example the endorsement of a private citizen, is, to this mind, of more import that that of a Hollywood Star or Television Star, musician, athlete, or the everyday endorsement on finds from the Media for either the President or Mitt Romney – depending on the outlet. It is a manner in which both parties get attention, and most publicists will note that any publicity is good publicity.

But what about Trump and his conservative credentials – are they more “tea-party” or “Republican Party”? It’s hard to tell from this perspective, one might say neither – and be closer to the truth – As a self-made man, who has done well is real-estate despite his personal ups and downs, perhaps Trump understands Romney better than perhaps the more intellectual Gingrich or the very balanced Santorum, and as a stated Republican/Tea Party kind of guy – the Libertarian, Ron Paul.

Trump’s endorsement will be talked about for the next 48 hours, or perhaps less, as Romney at present seems to be filling the need for the media’s feed of a main and central national Character. Although pushed by the right media (Fox News and the Drudgereport – especially), Mitt Romney has had problems generating enthusiasm above polite clapping – however, the left jumped in, especially when it appeared on Newt Gingrich might actually run over the GOP’s pre-ordained candidate, Mitt Romney. Trump, who is a frequent guest on Fox News, and from local New England talk host, Howie Carr, plays golf with Rush Limbaugh. Perhaps Trump is more a part of the “mainstream” Republican machine than first thought – and should Romney win the nomination, and then of course, the Presidency (anyone who believes that this race is winnable by the current President lacks a clear senses of history and a dose of reality: inflation, increased unemployment figures, and personal income, across all spectrums, especially the poor and middle class, and his record), perhaps Trump (as suggested and most sanely)would be in line for a new gig, say Ambassador to China.

How likely is that to happen? Not at all likely – considering the fact that Romney is a businessman, and as such, he does know how to make “deals” – and since he is actually a hybrid (politician and businessman) one can best be sure that he will make promises to win endorsements and support, and when it comes time to get down to business, chose who he feels is the best fit for the “job at hand” – the old saying: “S—t rolls uphill” refers to the top of the Corporate heap, when a staff runs amok and bad things happen, well, the guy at the top suffers and generally – is fired. Romney, and this is Massachusetts “lore” (i.e. rumor as there is only hear-say), has been known to promise the moon and the stars to those who will help him achieve a goal, like the Governorship of Massachusetts, and then completely forget that promise once elected. Apparently, this leaves a lot of resentment on the floor, but overall, those individuals recover and become - opponents, or if rank and file Massachusetts Republicans get back in line and support whoever they are told to support.

It goes without saying the endorsement was odd, considering that Romney has appeared to shun “the Donald” at every step, and he did appear very uncomfortable in accepting the endorsement from Trump, but for that matter, so did Trump – he lacked the enthusiasm one might except from a Trump endorsement.

The GOP race for the nomination continues this weekend in Nevada where Romney is expected to win handily – given the fact that he has had an organization in place – and that’s the key – follow the Establishment GOP Logic, and one finds a pattern that makes some wonder why bother to vote?

The Reality

There are always a batch of GOP approved candidates and one of those is a favorite (regardless of electability), and so, the guy that comes in second or perhaps even third, (if the guy that comes in second is...less than acceptable by the elite corp), that candidate then becomes a cheerleader, and in four years or eight, is on the stump and yes, before the party begins, is touted as the front-runner – (See Bush, Dole, Bush, McCain, and now Romney – just for fun.) The main point that is never mentioned is that they are all, to a man (and or to a woman, if there were one who had gotten into the race, or done well enough to stay in the race) Republicans. For better or for worse, they are "Party animals", just like their Democrat counterparts.

Should Romney get the nomination, then it will be for some, a choice between Obama Lite and Obama, and, truth be told, people who hold doubts about the former Massachusetts Governor, even those in Massachusetts who would prefer that Ron Paul be the nominee (and there are more than a few of those), will hold their nose and vote for – Romney. In this season of “anyone can beat Obama” should be a shoe-in; even if there is a third party candidate from which to choose.

That said this nomination process is not over, and that is a good thing – for entertainment purposes, for the country – especially – as long as Gingrich, Santorum and Paul remain in the race. This is true, should the aforementioned amass delegates in those 26 proportional states, then the contest remains anyone’s ballgame until someone reaches 1100 delegates, and that’s a ways off. This shines the light on the candidates and their ideas far longer than the Obama campaign would like – strategically it is sound – and sound strategy that goes against GOP logic. Therefore, a week after Super Tuesday and the settling of the dust, so to speak, the calls for this one or that one to get out of the race will begin (a la McCain and Huckabee).

The closest to a second place at this point is one Newt Gingrich, who is much maligned by the press and the Romney Campaign, and the GOP, and anyone who could possibly be considered establishment, with only 5 states weighing in by the weekend, it is still too early in this game to crown a winner – (although both candidates would prefer that the case) – So, grab the popcorn, and sit back and enjoy the ideas that will be bandied about and especially the hysteria from the left, and the most important thing to be assured of is this: no matter which one of the candidates wins the nomination, and despite the rhetoric from the RNC that they will choose a candidate if their choice is not brought to the convention on say, the popular vote, those who fought hard and long and lost, will come back as fierce proponents of the nominee – then begin their careers as either talk show hosts for Fox News, or perhaps earn a post in the administration, or, wait eight years, (in the case of the very young Santorum, who is the most appealing candidate at this point – from an anti-Romney point of view), and run as the “anointed” one. The problem both Gingrich and Santorum both have is they have both bucked the Republican system, Gingrich to the point of causing much chagrin and gnashing of teeth and blatantly false accusations and rhetoric from those who know him well – because – when all is said and done, the head of the free world is also the titular head of the party that brought him to the table.

Therefore, the Trump endorsement will mean little in a week or two, as so many endorsement do, what will matter is how strong those Conservatives, the base, react in this election, and one can bet the house, they are not going down the road of concession anytime soon. Newt and Santorum, therefore, (or one of them) will be with us through June, when the primary season ends – and that will make their job, as party cheerleaders (following the common wisdom that it must be Romney, will be Romney, and there’s nothing anyone can do about it being Romney), will be to bring the base to its senses and get them out to vote.

Of course, one cannot forget South Carolina and its predictive primary nature. It is a case where anything can happen, and yes, (no tin foil here – only pragmatism), Gingrich may well rise like a Phoenix from the ashes of Romney’s PAC’s assaults, and the myriad sources of irritation, and win the nomination outright – Romney may be in “safe” territory now, but on Super Tuesday, the shakeout will begin, and should he fail to sweep on Super Tuesday, especially in battleground states, then it will be anyone’s (well, the guy with the most delegates) at that point game. Call this blogger crazy, but on several points, Gingrich is the better candidate, intellectually, in the debate arena, and in the ability to appeal to both spectrums, in spite of the media, and in spite of the negative ads – there is a genuineness about the man, as there is about Rick Santorum, (someone who is given little credence, and who should be watched closely, as he has substance.) Gingrich also knows how to bully both parties into doing what needs to be done, a quality that one finds, to date, lacking in one Mitt Romney. Romney is, to this mind, the appeaser, one who would enter the White House with good looks, and the perfect agenda, and then sit right down with Harry Reid and negotiate something that would appeal to both parties, rather than actually be what the country needs. Perhaps he has changed, and does so daily, but one gets the impression that what the nation needs is someone who could care less about what either Party wants, but what is necessary to put the House in Order – and that’s with or without

Trumps endorsement – which, one has to believe was given based on the hard line Romney has taken with China - a favorite target of Trump is the reason that is the beginning and end of the “why Romney” endorsement.

Huntsman Ends Campaign, to Endorse Romney, the Consequences - Right Media Vs.Mainstream Media Now Resembles MSNBC – Romney vs. Gingrich - Analysis

Former Utah Governor, Jon Huntsman has decided to end his campaign for the GOP nomination and will endorse Mitt Romney as of Monday the 16th. The fact that the Utah Governor failed to secure a stronger finish in the New Hampshire primary, and his extremely low poll numbers going forward, has not been lost on some media – excellent article to be found at the The Christian Science Monitor.

In reviewing the most recent poll numbers in SC at Real Clear Politics Gingrich is fast on the heels of Mitt Romney, and from the pollsters results, one can find that the race is shaping up similarly to the Iowa Caucus where one finds poll numbers erratic, and Romney, Gingrich and Ron Paul leading the pack – all within a variety of margins of error (depending upon the pollsters marginal’s. In addition polling taken in recent days finds that 8 to 20% of those polled are still uncertain as to which candidate for whom they will vote. The polls thus far, are only as good as those taken a day or two prior to the primary, as anything else that has been released is akin to reading tea leaves!

How important is South Caroline in a win, even if it is by say 7 votes? It is of supreme import as the Palmetto state has accurately “predicted” through their primary winner, the eventual winner of the GOP nominee for the past few decades. A win in South Carolina from a psychological point for a campaign, can be extremely meaningful, it is not that a photo finish will mean a hill of beans, but a wider margin of 2 to 6 points between the two front runners, will be the tell-tale sign of either rejection or acceptance going forward into Florida, Nevada and the Super Tuesday. Gingrich has a firm grasp on the south, and is polling well; he polls well across all demographics in most polls, with two other that are considered to be pulling votes from the same “well”, one Rick Santorum and one Rick Perry. Should either one of those drop out of the S.C. race (which is, at this point, unlikely), those votes are assumed to go to Newt Gingrich, however, should their leads diminish over the next few days (given two debates, one tonight the16th on Fox news and one on CNN on the 19th (best debate arena to date, hands down goes to CNN), then any points lost may be evenly split between Gingrich and Romney – those voting for Santorum most likely to go to Romney (who if he does end his campaign, would, in all likelihood, endorse Romney as the RNC choice). Should Texas Governor Rick Perry end his campaign, the split may be even, although the later two, along with Gingrich, allegedly have the same “base”. That said, with 8 to 20% undecided – and Gingrich within the margin of error in most polling with Romney (i.e. statistical tie), then should those undecided’s break for Gingrich, he would have a clear advantage, with or without Perry and Santorum in the race. Ron Paul should remain at his current level in SC which is at approx. 14 to 18 % of the vote.

The media influence.

With all the railing against the Mainstream Media choosing a candidate and stumping for one over another, namely Barack Obama, by the likes of Andrew Breitbart and Matt Drudge (and name a pundit, especially on Fox News) it appears they have taken the same low road when it comes to anyone who get’s within striking distance of Mitt Romney. Gingrich, to the Republicans, represents someone who will end the status quo, a man who has a past, a man whose past indicates he will work for against both parties, to push legislation that is Conservative in nature without abandoning his Conservative principles. Gingrich, who worked with President Reagan and then President Clinton, has angered more on the right, perhaps than the left, for getting things done. To Mitt Romney’s credit, he did work with the Massachusetts legislature, but handed them almost everything they requested – the excuse: “I was outnumbered.” So why is Mitt Romney being pushed so hard by everyone from Charles Krauthammer to Ann Coulter (who has yet to pick a nominee that would win)? How much are these pundits of the Beltway vested in Politics as Usual?

For example; a recent headline on the Drudge Report, touted, “FLASH: Newt Booed At Huckabee Forum Over Romney Attacks... *” (see Screenshot), which led to this link on http://tv.breitbart.cm/newt-booed-by-sounth-carolina-crowd-for-bain-attacks” with video.
Those watching the Huckabee Forum with each candidate answering questions from a SC audience, never saw any such booing taking place, and when one reviews the video, which is short in length, one notices perhaps a 5 second grumbling, the question was not as implied, regarding Bain, rather it was regarding Newt Gingrich’s views on Capitalism and he explained it quite well. The grumbling, which again, was minor (see video) started when he mentioned Mitt Romney’s claim of creating jobs, and ended abruptly as he was reminded of the rules by Huckabee (apparently no attacks on other candidates). This was not an attack rather a contrast, and by way of example – Gingrich quickly changed tactics, the grumbling had long stopped and went on to give an outstanding answer which applause given was cut off on this short video.


Screenshot of Drudge Headline: links to: video below




The problem with rushing a candidate though without vetting (and that is exactly what is happening here with Mitt Romney), is one is going to end up with either another McCain and or Barack Obama. It is clear that the left is in the “tank” for Mitt Romney, which should tell the right that there is something out there that may be problematic.

They should also be aware that Newt Gingrich most likely knows what that problem(s) may be – given the fact he has visited Massachusetts more than Romney and given the fact that Romney eradicated his email records, and then was angered by the Secretary of State, Galvin’s decision to release hard copy documents. If Romney is concerned about these documents, it follows that there may be something there that most likely runs contrary to his current “Conservative” message – he was most concerned that the Obama campaign have access, however, it is possible that other GOP campaigns have gained access to these records as well.

Again, although Romney had his staff dumped email records of his term in office, (called highly unusual by all GOP Gubernatorial predecessors) the hard copy remained:

An Associated Press examination of much of the available Romney archives holdings earlier this year suggested the material available then was far from comprehensive. More than 75 cartons reviewed by the AP included staff and legislative documents but no internal records written to or from Romney himself -- except for ceremonial bill-signing and official letters.
News organizations have pressed to view the archived Romney files. Also, the Democratic National Committee recently submitted three open-records requests to current Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, seeking to learn more background about the Romney administration's purge of emails and other electronic records.
Romney's campaign, meanwhile, has asked Patrick's office for any evidence of collusions between his staff and Obama re-election officials.

Boston Globe December 6th, 2011

This is a candidate of choice? He may be, but without a fair process, (i.e. slanted news stories regarding other candidates and the constant drumbeat that Romney is the only one who can win against Obama (without, by the way, any statistics that suggest he is that capable), it will be up to those voting in the Republican Primary, including independents, who will make that decision – the innuendo’s and false claims from headlines prove that the vast right wing conspiracy is nothing more than an RNC front.

Now there are 5 major candidates left to debate and follow through with the process, with the likelihood of there being 3 or 4 after the Carolina's: Romney, Gingrich, Paul, Santorum and Perry. One might look for an additional announcement prior to the S.C. primary of a suspension of a campaign. It is unlikely at this point, however, it has been rumored, not confirmed.

It remains to be seen if the right media will go to the lengths that he left media did vis a vis Romney and Obama – but it is likely: See Right Leaning Mediaite: headline: “Chris Wallace Confronts Pro-Gingrich Super PAC Spokesman About Gingriches Ties to Equity Firm” more of the same type of inflammatory headlines, and little substance in the actual article, other than additional right centered media making assertions. It is interesting to watch this play out, and to understand that there is little difference between FOX and MSNBC other than ratings. What is telling is that CNN is quickly becoming the choice of the moderate – go figure.

To answer the questions poised, Gingrich is being maligned with misleading and inaccurate head nines simply because: he’s in Romney’s way. Let the process take its course, and the last man standing will be the nominee, regardless of whether or not that nominee is approved by the RNC and its surrogates.

Lastest SC GOP Polling: Gingrich in Tie with Romney - Debate Schedule for SC

The latest Insider Advantage Poll has Newt Gingrich in a Statistical Tie with Mitt Romney. The poll, conducted on the 11th, shows Gingrich leading among Independents, and statistically tied with Romney for the Republican vote. The balance of the placements: Santorum and Paul tied, Huntsman and Perry one point apart in single digits, with 15.2% undecided. the complete marginals are available here in pdf from realclearpolitics.com.

There are three debates in SC: First Fox with Mike Hukabee's Forum tonight at 8PM, on the 16th of January 9 PM Fox News, and on January 19th, CNN at 8 PM.

Romney Wins New Hampshire, Paul Strong Second, Romney's PAC Heads South - Analysis and Commentary

Romney Takes 86,000 of 186,000 votes in New Hampshire Primary – Romney Super PAC Moves to FL – Ron Paul Strong Showing, Gingrich & Perry Move to Friendly Territory



Romney, Gingrich and Paul at a debate, the Debate will be the national Ad that makes or breaks the General Election Race - image: Huffington Post

The full New GOP Hampshire Primary Results are in at the New Hampshire Union Leader, placing first was Mitt Romney taking over one in two votes casts in the Granite State, where he has campaign since 2006. Romney was expected to win New Hampshire, along with Ron Paul and Jon Huntsman who had strong campaigns on the ground for extended periods of time. Ron Paul came in a decisive second with 48,000 plus votes, followed by Jon Huntsman at 35,000 (approximate) and Newt Gingrich 4th, besting Rick Santorum by fewer than 100 votes, Rick Perry, who had not set foot in the state, with the exception of the debates, came in 6th.

The big story was Ron Paul’s strong showing – although Paul was not physically present in the state for the same amount of time that Jon Huntsman and Mitt Romney (by virtue of having one of his homes there), were, it was his massive organization that brought the strong second place finish to the Paul Campaign. CNN (who had the best comprehensive and unbiased coverage of this debate), offered several bells and whistles for political junkies, including a focus group from South Carolina that judged each candidates speech, allowing viewers to watch a “line” of approval or disapproval, separated by gender, as the candidates each gave their post primary results speech, along with demographics as to how well each candidate did among specific voter groups. Paul, who did not gender great enthusiasm, but respectable enthusiasm from the focus group, also attracts the highest percentage of independent voters, which would be a large plus in a general election. Romney’s speech was spot on, more meat than policy; however, he cannot garner the enthusiasm that projects any charisma whatsoever, coming off more as flat and more boring that Rick Santorum’s sweater vest. The Focus Groups dial moved erratically up and down as he was speaking. It was anticipated that Romney would win New Hampshire, he had placed second in 2008, against John McCain, and therefore, it was the 2nd, 3rd and 4th placements that were most interesting.

Jon Huntsman, while giving his speech, basically “flat-lined” with the focus group – garnering almost zero enthusiasm with those South Carolinians who were watching the post debate speakers, while the greatest enthusiasm came for Newt Gingrich, who spoke after Santorum (who also did not do well with the focus group) - Gingrich knows where his territory lay, and it was never in Iowa or New Hampshire.

Of note, in Romney’s speech he not only attacked the President (as he has all along) but also those rivals who he characterized as “desperate Republican’s”, specifically targeting Gingrich for running ads against Romney. To set the record straight from a Massachusetts point of view: (Read Romney’s Super PAC goes in for the Kill) Romney’s Super Pac is a large part of his campaign, and under the PAC a destroy Newt Gingrich approach was taken in Iowa and it worked. The ads were not overly factual however, very effective as Gingrich took a higher road, and responded only after the Caucus was over.

Once the group of candidates were headed to New Hampshire, the gloves came off, and Gingrich began to take a different tactic – as well as having a Super Pac of his own that began to target Romney – As Romney was the favorite in New Hampshire and with the beltway pundits, which now include, of all people, Rush Limbaugh, (A startling revelation to understand that Rush Limbaugh is not an independent right ring conservative, rather a cheerleader for the party dogma - thus giving Hilary Clinton points for being right in part- it was not a vast right wing conspiracy, it was just the GOP learning that the airwaves were very effective.) Gingrich hit a populist tone going into New Hampshire, critical of Romney’s tenure at Bain Capital, and how these types of leverage buyout groups work. This may “sound like a Democrat” to Romany fan, but it is a simple fact that in some instances, corporations raid other corporations for the money, and leave human capital in shambles. This is not an issue for Democrats alone, and one can bet the house that the Obama campaign will focus on Bain and the personal disasters the group caused – they merely need to pull out the old Ted Kennedy 1994 Senate Campaign ads, to do just that.

That is Romney’s baggage, that and his record on taxes, along with his record of no job creation in MA, and no one knows what was released when the Attorney General of Massachusetts, gave full access to Romney’s sealed gubernatorial papers. Romney tried hard to block that action but failed. One has to understand that Galvin would give that information gladly to the first Democrat operative that came calling. The problem with Romney in taking the fight to Obama is that he does have baggage, just like Gingrich, but his baggage spans from 1990 to 2008, while Gingrich’s record is up for review from the 1990’s. This battle will continue in South Carolina, where it should get interesting. The fact that some pundits are noting that Gingrich’s sole purpose in the camping is to stop Romney have been drinking the GOP Kool-Aid, Gingrich is in the campaign, like Santorum, Like Perry, like Paul and like Huntsman because it is clearly evident those candidates feel they were called to run. In the case of Romney, one wonders if he is there to serve his ego or the nation.

It is evident this blog is not a huge fan of Romney, but one must consider that this blog is generated from Massachusetts, and by a Conservative Moderate, who leans both right and left at times, depending upon the issue. As a resident under Romney, it was evident he balanced the budget on the backs of the taxpayers, instituted social programs that were anathema to anyone who has an ounce of Conservatism in them, and the only thing that one positive that one can remember is the fact that he refused to give state security to an Al Queda sympathizer who was speaking at Harvard.

Therefore, one understands, within the state, the extreme moderate that makes Romney the perfect John McCain. Does the GOP really want John McCain’s doppelganger to head the ticket? Possibly, they are more interested in taking back the senate that actually taking the White House and Romney fits that bill to a tee.

As the candidates head to South Carolina which is truly the gateway to the Presidency, on January 21st (or in 9 days from now) it will become apparent which of the candidates will remain standing through Super Tuesday. Romney, who placed 4th in the Carolina’s in 2008 with 15% of the vote, the big winners were Mike Huckabee and John McCain who placed 2nd and first respectively. The candidate the pulls out of South Carolina in the lead, has predicatively become the Party’s nominee, which is why those who finished in 2nd through 4th in the first two contests out of 50, are not overly concerned at this point. That may or may not change in 9 days, however, it is doubtful that certain candidates will be able to carry forward going into South Carolina, where they may lack organization in the Palmetto State, chief among them is Rick Santorum, who rose swiftly in Iowa, and expected a better showing in New Hampshire.

Newt Gingrich and Rick Perry will be the two to watch going into that particular state, given the fact that they have invested in the Carolinas, and have southern roots. The Paul campaign will most likely focus on more eastern/western states where they can, in all seriousness, do well enough to take this race to the Convention. It’s still anyone’s game, despite the drumbeat. With all due respect to Mitt Romney, who one can be sure is a very smart guy, and one who is patriotic, offers nothing concrete in a comparative way to the President, and, in addition, appears to take great umbrage at criticism, coupled with lackluster debates performances, he would be the weakest of the candidates, besides Jon Huntsman to put up against the President. In addition, a strong social conservative, might also be in the same boat. This leaves few valid choices, chief among them the former Speaker of the House.

It will be the individual that the voter’s trust in this election, more than any other factor, despite the polls and despite the pundits, that will win the day, as to who that individual may be – no-one knows at this point, with only two small contests, although titled as the “first”, past, it is far too early to crown a front-runner in terms of the entire election. Once the dust settles on Super Tuesday (March 6th), then the front-runner (or front-runners as the case may be) will be glaringly apparent.

Article of note from Politico: ”Newt Gingrich leaves New Hampshire on high note, despite primary loss”

Iowa – Polling Varies to Extreme’s – Anyone’s Guess – Ground Game will Prevail – Ron Paul Organizational Strength

Iowa has been at the center of attention with newscasters touting poll after poll suggesting that Mitt Romney, Ron Paul and variations of Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum will be the likely winners of the first 2012 GOP caucus. The latest Insider Advantage poll taken on the 28th of December, shows Paul, Romney and Gingrich in a dead head with Santorum in a statistical 4 way tie within the margin of error. (Marginals PDF hereat Real Clear Politics) A number of polls suggest either a Paul, Romney, Santorum win or any combination one can conceive of those candidates running (with the exception of Huntsman whose focus is now on New Hampshire). It will be the first three placements in Iowa that will count towards any “political capital” going forward to New Hampshire, where Romney is leading in polls, but where, again, one cannot pinpoint, by current polls and the variance that is going to come out in the top tier. It will be the state of South Carolina that will forecast which of these candidates can stay in for the long haul, by the placement of the top two – going forward, the candidate that can hold the South and Midwest on Super Tuesday, will emerge as the front-runner (or front-runners as 2012 appears).

All the Super PAC’s and candidates cash on hand will count towards the battle, in the sense that those left with cash will be able to make those necessary appearances and run advertising in states where they are not known – which is where the crux of the matter lays. With the media 24/7 news cycle it is doubtful that anyone who isn’t living under a rock does not know who is running for the GOP nomination. Even in Massachusetts, the local news is bringing the Republican contest into the first half of the news cast, the focus on Iowa and New Hampshire being so strong, that the affiliates are running national stories on the early contests, including commentary from the local anchors. It appears to be message, message, message and who can appeal across the board to a wide range of voters, including the Democrats who are now considering (and not in a paranoid, Democrat Operative voting for the Republican to spoil the race for a specific candidate, type of way, but in a sincere and selective manner, in which they will, many for the first time, and many for the second time in a matter of 30 years, cross party lines) voting against every political instinct instilled in a Democrat – for a Republican to lead the nation.)

Nothing speaks to this stronger than the marginals of the Insider Advantage Poll, and as a resident of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (known as the bluest state), a Super Tuesday participant, one cannot help but wonder when those who always cast Massachusetts aside (with the exception of the 2009 special election for the Senate seat, won by Scott Brown) will finally poll the Commonwealth. It is not that Massachusetts would be a deciding factor in any Presidential contest (not withstanding the fact that the state offers 9 electoral votes, which, in a hotly contested race may make the difference), but it would offer a snapshot of the depth of the race, and which of the candidates those Massachusetts Independents (the largest portion of the electorate) were considering for the March 6th contest.

Who resonates, who is the candidate that will capture, not the Republican Party loyalists (otherwise known as the Country Club Republican Set (not unsimilar to those in similar positions in the Democrat Party), but those rank and file members who are making decisions based on the newscasts, the mailers, the candidates that show up in the state, and those that have volunteers in sufficient numbers to knock on doors.

One has to consider who has made appearances, that is likely to go a long way towards additional state and local news, and who has an established ground game. (See Campaign Tracker by the Washington Post – visits to States by Candidate noted in this interactive map). History will also play a factor, if one cannot succeed in the Southern States, one might as well be spitting into the wind, so to speak. Historically, those who have risen to the top of the pile, by virtue of either state wins in caucuses or primaries to win delegates at a convention, or those in a brokered convention, and who cannot, on their own merit, carry the South or the west, will choose a running mate that can – the exception being John McCain, a moderate who chose the conservative Govenor of Alaska, Sarah Palin, to boost the base. Consider the case of Kennedy, who chose Johnson in order to solidify the South, so important it was for that Massachusetts Democrat to have geographic representation in order to secure a win.

Therefore, one must look at strengths and weaknesses, endorsements being what they are, in the eyes of some, specifically those who are less inclined to watch the news more than once in a blue moon, or who pay little attention to the primaries, (this year, perhaps an exception). The GOP endorsements to date (running up to Iowa) have been made in large part to Mitt Romney and those endorsements have been mainly GOP establishment figures, Gingrich has received endorsements from, most recently a noted economics and Michael Reagan, Rick Santorum is being back by former Huckabee campaign personnel and certain evangelical leaders in the state, some of whom have gone so far as to suggest to other candidates that they drop out of the race. Ron Paul – has organization, the scope of which it is doubtful that anyone has bothered to look at with any seriousness – but they should.
Paul has, in the past, had the support of the youth vote (think Occupy Wall Street) but this has changed in the age of the Tea Party (think strict Constitutionalists) and now includes a wide spectrum of ages and individuals who are tired of “business as usual”.

A recent op-ed in the New Hampshire Union Leader by Publisher Joseph W. McQuaid entitled “Ron Paul is truly dangerous” speaks to the rise of the Paul Candidacy and the lack of media attention vis a vis Paul’s national security stance, one which many would conclude, as did Mr. McQuaid, are “dangerous” to the security of the nation. Mr. McQauid also points out that his appeal lays in his “domestic libertarian views” which “are quite attractive to some voters fed up with politics as usual”.

How organized is Paul? Take a look at one of the organizations that is backing Paul, to understand the scope of not only his campaign organization but what amounts to a “super pac” of supporters. The websites for reference are Young Americans for Liberty and the Campaing for Liberty (which boast 600,000 plus members). Granted this may not transform into votes, however, look back at the marginals of the Insider Advantage Poll to understand who is voting in the Iowa Caucus and those states through the end of March that offer proportional delegates to those placing, and open primaries where Independents and Democrats may vote and/or change affiliation to vote in the Republican Primary.

The Poll breakdown is shown below:


Insider Advantage Poll Iowa - click to enlarge

Iowa is of import as well as New Hampshire in measuring the depth of the organization of one Ron Paul versus the lack of grassroots organization of the establishment candidate Mitt Romney, leaving South Carolina and Florida to stop what may become a freight train. Those candidates that garner votes in sufficient numbers that cross party lines are at present: Paul, Gingrich and Bachmann, the three candidates that represent the most “outside of Washington” personas and are able to amass votes from all parties.

2012 GOP CNN Debate 11-22-11 – Debate Winner - Newt Gingrich - Bachmann Holds Own on National Security - Overview, Analysis – Full Video

Rick Perry, Herman Cain, Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich, during the singing of the National Anthem CNN GOP Debate 11 22 11, image: The Hollywood Reporter



The 2012 GO National Security Debate was held last evening on CNN and co-sponsored by the the Heritage Foundation and the American Enterprise Institute. CNN made the broadcast available on the Armed Forces Network, CNN en Español, CNN International, CNN Radio and CNN.com. A full video appears below. It was without a doubt, along with the debates on the economy, one of the most important debates for the candidates to not only do well, but also to express their views on the protection of the nation, as well as how one would face the challenges that might arise now and in the future. Of all the candidates on that stage, the most qualified was apparent from the moment he took the first question, and that on individual is Newt Gingrich. Gingrich was steady, clear, precise, and above all, not over reactionary. He answered each question specifically and without rhetoric, which was perhaps, on points, the most measured responses from a candidate to date in this most interesting and qualified field. Surely in second place was Michele Bachmann, the Congressional Representative from the Minnesota 6th District and a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence was also clear in her responses, it was the gravitas displayed by Gingrich that gave him the clear lead. In this arena it was clear that Gingrich and Bachmann, were the the two who hold the most credentialed experience in national security.

The balance of the candidates:

Dr. Ron Paul, Congressional Representative, Texas, was true to his pure Libertarian ideology, which, in this debate arena, placed him at a slight disadvantage, he performs the best in debates on economics, as does Herman Cain, Businessman and CEO, who was clearly out of his depth in this arena, Jon Huntsman, Governor of Utah, understands China, perhaps better than the other candidates but is limited in his approach in the debate arena, focusing on that nation, and repetitious in his responses. Rick Santorum, the Senator from Pennsylvania who is most enthusiastic, also looks to his past in each answer, which, normally begins with (paraphrasing) “I’ve already done such and such…” (Wrote a piece of legislation or was part of a committee, etc.). To his credit, he is one of two that answered the following question, not only in a response as asked, but clearly and with accuracy. The Question (again paraphrasing: refer to video) what national security issue was not addressed in tonight’s debate? Santorum, the first to answer, brought up the clear and present danger in South America – Santorum, should the Republican Candidate be successful in the 2012 campaign, be assigned to a position that is most suited to his expertise – it would be a shame to waste that type of talent. Herman Cain answered pointedly but did not expound, and Newt Gingrich gave a clear three point answer to the question, as with all questions, leaving no doubt as to this meaning or intentions.

Mitt Romney, who is seen by some as the front runner and eventual nominee, was simply not prepared for this forum. He was too busy campaigning against Obama in his answers rather than clearly stating his positions. In addition, he made a few mistakes as to the state of certain nations (specifically Indonesia – where the security of that nation is at risk, especially from radical Islamic forces, so much so that it is in turmoil – see strategypage.com article from the 12th of November, 2011.) That said, other than getting tongue tied during an answer (which, one would not want to see in a debate against Barack Obama even though the current President had done the same in the past, during the 2008 Democrat primary), Romney stayed on “campaign”. This is something one should notice about Romney that perhaps has not be brought to light, however, the man is a patriot, one has to look past the clips of campaign Romney, or economic Romney, to the opening of each debate where the national anthem is played. Romney gains points for his appearance and his singing along (silently or otherwise) with passion and pride, one might add, to the National Anthem. That penchant to sing (or lip sync) the National Anthem is one thing noticed and noted, he truly loves this country. That is not to say the other candidate do so no more or no less, but in last night’s debate, one is remind ended of former 2008 Presidential Candidate Hillary Clinton, who was caught on tape, singing along to the national anthem. It was a move than endeared her to those who value the nation and what it has to offer, and care less about a public display. Her critics were first to note her ability to sing, rather than praise her for her obvious patriotism. That said, Romney’s performance overall left him in the Perry category. Perry, also a patriot, was more out of his debate depth than Romney, and clearly not up for a national security debate.

This is one of two debates where it the answers are critical, the stance on the issues at hand should be measured, not reactionary and that clearly places on individual ahead: Newt Gingrich.

The tension: Where Newt gave the answer in a clear and specific manner, on illegal immigrants, and his heartfelt, and Catholic (Universal) view of compassion when it come to the family that has been in this nation for 25 years, has an extended family, and attends church, pays taxes, et. al. Gingrich proposes allowing them to stay in the United States and giving them a legal status (not citizenship), in addition, when one is in this nation illegally and joins the armed forces, that person should be allowed a path to citizenship. This is something that happens consistently with nationals from other nations who are here on visa’s, of any type. His answer was quickly seized upon by the other candidates as “amnesty”, yet, Gingrich held firm. It is without a doubt, a red meat question, when it comes to what to do with the millions of illegal immigrants living and working in our nation. It is without a doubt, the last “problem” any candidate has yet to give an answer to, and or if an answer has been given, has done anything about once installed in the Oval Office, and this is a failing of Presidents on both sides of the aisle, and goes back beyond Ronald Reagan. It was, as one of this blogs more right of center peers stated, a problem for Conservatives, and yet, what amazes this individual of Spanish decent, nothing is ever done, especially from those who spout the most vitriol against those here in our nation illegally. Therefore, the answer given last night by Gingrich, clear, fair and one which could be easily implemented would appeal to most moderates, those compassionate conservatives, and the Hispanic/Latino Community.

From a true left of center independent, watching this debate, Gingrich stood above the rest, in terms of intellect, and has now become “human”. Someone who is likable when need be and one who is tough as the occasion demands. The second choice – startling to this blogger was Bachmann. Startling because of the choices – in the conversation was the following that should give Gingrich the biggest boost. (Paraphrasing) With today’s economy and the state of the world, Gingrich is the best choice to lead the nation, I would not have thought so ten years ago, or ten months ago, but after seeing him in several debates, he is clearly the smartest in the room, and we need someone who is smart.
What might be most interesting about the two responses, one is an avowed Massachusetts Right Voting evangelical, the other, a New Yorker, who more often than not, votes along the alternative party line.

Two do not make a poll obviously, however, if the smartest man in the room, is the choice, even despite a disagreement on an answer on immigration which was immediately misquoted by candidates on stage, of two so diverse political voters, one has to ask, take away the party purists from the Democrats, and those left, are most likely leaning with Newt. Those on the right, are most likely forgiving Newt his past, and looking at him as the one to trounce the President in the debate arena, and in the polls (this is yet to occur, however as Romney has been given the most media attention as the “eventual nominee”, and polls are now just beginning to show Gingrich equal to or above Romney”, a first look by many will clearly move those numbers in Newts’ favor should his debate performance remain constant going into the Iowa primary.

The next debate will be held on December 10, 2011, co - sponsored by the Des Moines Register and the Iowa Republican Party and broadcast on ABC News at 9:00 PM eastern.

The Iowa Caucus is the first 2012 general election decision made, followed by New Hampshire, the first primary in the nation. Both will take place in early January, just six weeks or less from today.

CNN Debate Video

2012 GOP Update, Thanksgiving Family Forum, Gingrich, Cain, Paul,Perry, Bachmann, Santorum - No Romney

A Thanksgiving Family Forum, hosted by Focus on the Family, with 2012 GOP Republican Candidates was held today at 5 PM, the moderator Frank Luntz,did an excellent job in keeping on topic - the topic social issues. A complete video is available at: Citizenlink.com

This is well worth the watch - regardless of one's religious leanings, this forum, in an Iowa Faith Based setting, gives an insight into both the integrity as well as the character of each candidate - topics ranged from personal introspection to What one would consider a "just war". It was not so much a debate, rather than a round table discussion, however, it was difficult to choose one candidate over another as to a "right" answer - to a man and a woman, they are all admirable. It was unfortunate that the Romney campaign was either unable or chose not to attend this particular event.

A Portion is shown below



Gingrich, as always, is stellar in any forum, debate or otherwise.


The next debate will be held on November 22nd, on CNN, and co-sponsored by the Heritage Foundation - The Topic - National Security.

2012 GOP Poll Watch – WSJ - By The Numbers, Cain Leads, 68% Satisfied with Current GOP Eight: Poll Demo’s: 40% Dem 19% Ind., 36% Rep., 5% Other

The GOP Field - Majority - Satisfied

A Wall Street Journal Poll conducted October 6-10 has headlined as Herman Cain Leads “Republican” Field “on various websites linking to the poll data. However, when one takes a closer look at that data one finds that Cain and, in fact, the “Field of Eight” do quite well even crossing party lines – For example: 63% of those polls are satisfied and aware of the GOP field, and 40% of those polled are Democrats, the proof as they say is in the math.

Other “gems “found in this poll, but not getting much notice: 74% of those polled feel the nation is headed down the wrong road – 57% Feel the President is not doing a great job handling the economy, the Democrat and Republican Parties are equally loathed by (42% (Dem), 44% (Rep.) – and Job Creation is the number one issue topping at 70%, when GOP Voters are identified the figure remains high at 60%, second most important issue (both political affiliation): the deficit and federal spending.


click to enlarge poll data image via pdf msnbc

Those who are anticipating voting and are more enthusiastic for the 2012 election than other years, and the total is high - 50% are more enthusiastic, 11% are the Same, and 38% are less enthusiastic (See Demographics while sitting down).


click to enlarge poll data image via pdf msnbc

On voting in the primary: 30% intend to vote in the Republican Party, while 26% intend to vote in the Democrat Party with 39% holding until the General Election – and 5% either other or not sure.


click to enlarge poll data image via pdf msnbc

Finally, among voters who indicated they would be voting in the Republican Primary: the candidates in order of “Positivity” or how much they are known/liked:
Herman Cain: 46%, Romney: 35%, Gingrich: 26%, Perry: 20% and Rick Santorum: 15% - the balance of the candidates has a single digit “positivity score”.

However if the election were held today, those intending to vote would choose Herman Cain, (by 5 points), Mitt Romney, Rick Perry, Ron Paul (The balance in single digits)

Therefore, what we find, as of this particular poll (and other polls where Cain is either leading and/or points from Mitt Romney): Cain, a non-Washington Candidate is leading, Democrats are jumping ship, those in either party do not approve of their party, and going into the general enthusiasm is fairly high among what one can assume by the numbers: Republicans and Republican leaners.

Finally and of most import - overall President Obama still is personally perceived well: in positivity – tying with Herman Cain with all voters at a score of 6, Romney is next In line at a -2 on the net Positive/Negative test.

This is how the Field stands going into Tuesday nights’ debate, which will be broadcast on CNN at 8 pm EST. Cain and Romney are the two most under scrutiny at this point, should Perry or Newt Gingrich or Paul rise to the top in the ensuing weeks, it would be the same. However, this debate bears watching, as do each performance of these eight candidates; this constant debate cycle shows several things to the primary voter: how well the candidate takes criticism (especially the current front-runner, who will be basically put under the negative spotlight consistently by both the moderator and if allowed, the other candidates), How well prepared the candidate is, and if not prepared, comes back with an honest, no, finally, to all those Democrats watching and showing an interest in the GOP candidates – the individuals sense of humor and ability to speak to the issues. (Most often said by left of center associates: a) who knew Republicans had a sense of humor, and b) who knew Republican’s have actual plans.)

One important factor to the media and beltway pundits is: the Cash! – Right at the moment, the leaders in the Cash Field are Romney, Perry, Paul, Bachmann and Cain – (in Order), however, as one can recall from 2008 and before, the Candidate with the Most Cash going in, does not always end up being the nominee – therefore, this year should promise to be any different.

What to watch for in the coming weeks: The President will most likely continue to campaign with the Occupy theme, Herman Cain plans to establish a presence in key primary states: New Hampshire and Iowa specifically – of course, these are important “early states” however, the southern state schedule, which has also moved up will play the most important roll given what took place in the 2008 primary. (Romney took NH, Huckabee IA, and McCain (with a little help from Fred Thompson who knocked out Huckabee) took South Carolina - at which point the die was cast, and contenders began to pull back, with Romney the first to call it quits and incidentally the candidate with the biggest “war chest”.

Overall Democrats appear to be willing to vote (today) along party lines, with a close race called for Obama as incumbent and any Republican – 44/42% (Obama 44%) – Note: This is the only pollster showing that Obama is in positive territory when it comes to reelection.

Therefore, although Cain leads the field, and the field is perceived as satisfactory by a majority of voters (all parties), the logic follows that he is, at the present time, the best choice to achieve the goal of taking the White House. Should Herman Cain's name recognition among likely voters rise, and his positives rise with that recognition, then he would be the definitive candidate to beat the Incumbent.

GOP Debate Reminder: Tuesday, October 11th, at Dartmouth - Bloomberg TV, Washington Post

The next GOP debate will take place this coming Tuesday, October 11th, with a pre-debate analysis beginning at 7pm est, followed by the debate at 8pm on Bloomberg TV, or streaming live on the Washington Post website.

Those who live in the Western Massachusetts area and have Charter Digital services can find the Bloomberg on Channel 299, those without Charter; check your local cable provider listing for Channel number (Comcast does carry the channel in Western MA).

This debate will focus solely on the Economy. There are nine candidates, currently, who have participated in past GOP debates, and have declared themselves for the GOP 2012 Presidential Nomination: (In no particular order)

Herman Cain: www.hermancain.com
Mitt Romney: www.mittromney.com
Rick Perry: www.rickperry.org
Ron Paul: www.ronpaul2012.com
Newt Gingrich: www.newt.org
Michele Bachmann: www.michelebachmann.com
Rick Santorum: www.ricksantorum.com
Jon Huntsman: www.jon2012.com
Gary Johnson: www.garyjohnson2012.com

For a full list of candidates: visit: http://2012.presidential-candidates.org

2012 GOP - Herman Cain Rising – Tonight Show Appearance – Cain’s Straight Talk, Take No Prisoner’s Approach – Two Words: Brilliant and Capable

Herman Cain, speaking at crowded event - image World News Blog

On Friday evening, 2012 GOP Presidential Candidate, Herman Cain, was a guest on NBC’s “Tonight Show with Jay Leno”. Both Leno and his counterpart on CBS, Letterman, have been slumping in the ratings lately (NY Times) , therefore, Leno took the step to attract the rest of the available late night audience which may not be overly “left”, with an appearance by Cain. The last time both Leno and Letterman had sky high ratings was when they opened with guests: Mitt Romney and Sarah Palin in early 2010 (LA Times). Apparently, lost on the networks (or those booking for the shows), was a spike in ratings when one brings in the Conservatives – and Herman Cain would be no exception, as he certainly has the momentum in the race at this point.

One knows that Cain’s stock is rising when Democrat “strategists” start playing the race card! (Real Clear Politics). Apparently, to a Progressive Democrat, (i.e. Socialist), Cain is a bigoted racist. That mind boggling remark is sure to be added to other less brilliant or original attacks on Cain from the left, due to the fact that his presence and his rise in the Republican Race, doesn’t’ fit neatly into their mantra of “All Republican’s are white Racists” – wait – that’s where they got it. Apparently, whether one is Latino, a woman, African American, and a Conservative, one is suddenly a "rich white man", in the eyes of Socialists Democrats. How well that plays is well, up to the electorate.
Unfortunately, Cain being embraced by the GOP and Tea Party knocks out that age old theory, so they either have to attack him on his plans, his experience and or his personal life – they’ve got nothing – so, they use what seems to have failed in the past (which explains the current administrations fascination for and implementation of for Carter’s foreign, domestic, and economic policy).

Cain is likeable, and he’s smart, and he’s got a sense of humor. He’s been able to pick up the appropriate tone in the debate arena, faster than any politician’s one has seen in a long time – for someone who is clearly not a politician – His remarks regarding his economic plan are solid, and he backs them up with facts, from a businessman’s perspective. Not a lot of hubris being thrown out there by Mr. Cain.

The highlights of the video clip below (in two segments via NBC):

Cain on the other candidates: Mitt Romney: Good Hair, New Gingrich: Brilliant and Ron Paul: Grumpy Old Man shows a sense of humor that is peppered with honesty.
When asked about the comments by Palin regarding his being flavor of the week (which was a speech not on Cain per se, rather on the media, which concept has gotten lost somehow (last word rhetorical) Cain noted correctly that Palin had called him Herb (and he forgives her now), that she lends a great deal to the national debate, but that he doesn’t feel she’ll enter the race.

Overall it was a good foray into the late night show talk circuit lion’s den, and one can anticipate more appearance by Cain in the future (specifically if Neilson gives the green light to Leno in ratings next week – one can expect additional GOP candidates to be in the rotation.)

Cain is a breath of fresh air, and although one might argue that he doesn’t have experience in “government’ – that’s more of a plus than a negative, whiel his forty plus years in executive positions gives him credibility, the man would be more capable of hiring the right people than any politician to take the reins since the founders – that’s something to think about heading into the primaries.

The Tonight Show with Herman Cain Part I

The Tonight Show with Herman Cain Part II


To learn more about Herman Cain visit his website: www.hermancain.com