I don’t think any of us are going to be happy with number 2. I think it will be Kasich. These are the voters who voted for Ron Paul and Rand Paul.
These are the voters who voted for McCain in 2000 and 2008. Luckily we didn’t listen to them in 2000.
From a tactical perspective for Trump, he has to be hoping for Kasich to finish 2nd. Kasich is a purely regional candidate but if he steals 2nd he will stay in the race through SC to make it to Michigan where he may be competitive for #2/3 in that primary. Kasich is looking for a VP slot out of this. By coming in 2nd in NH, Kasich seriously damages Rubio, further dents Bush and knocks Cruz down a peg before SC. All good things for Trump. Best case for Trump is a win by double digits, Kasich 2, Rubio 3 and Cruz 4. Go Kasich! Help Trump Make America Great Again!!