That said, I would strongly urge Republicans not to focus on a specific candidate, during the next six months. Rather the focus must be on Obama--his past actions, words, history & associates.
If we are able to educate the public, despite the media efforts to anoint Obama; there will be a rising tide of opinion that will force most of the prospective candidates to the Right. It is that tide which must be created, then harnessed. Squabbling among ourselves, now, will enable the media to acerbate our differences--and you know they will--and defuse our focus.
Nothing that Obama stands for is in accord with fundamental American values. None of those who originally promoted him from a radical alien nurturing into world prominence are in any sense loyal to the traditions we cherish. We need to focus on these fundamental differences from all that most rooted Americans take for granted; to make the essential points. Then, and only then, we can sort out the candidates.
William Flax
Newt's statement essentially supported Obama, and did so at the expense of the current GOP plan and GOP players.
As far as the backlash goes, it's unfortunate, but it's in line with your reasoning. We must keep the focus on Obama. Undoing his works. Destroying his legacy. De-legitimizing his goals. What we cannot abide is a contender for the Presidency who praises the core of Obama's works, namely ObamaCare. Especially if he wants to do so while kicking our team in the field.
Newt, and all contenders, need to be taught a harsh lesson. This isn't a time to make nice to be loved by the Sunday talk shows, or to throw out your back by reaching across the aisle. (Lookin' at you, John McCain.) It's a time to lock onto Obama's policies as a target, politically scorch the earth he's built on, then salt it.