I don’t really understand the anti-Newt rhetoric either.
Only thing I can figure is it has something to do with some people being desperately attached to another candidate, to a point that they feel an imperative to bring others down.
I blame McCain. He left such a bad taste that it led to the "I'll never compromise my principles again" position.
The problem is that in 2012 that attitude will deliver us Milt. No thanks. Go Newt!