[PerConPat]

This has been problematic for decades and it may be unrealistic to think it will change quickly.

Agreed. The havoc that the Clinton administration visited upon the intelligence and defense apparatus ought to be shouted out at every opportunity by the Right. Perhaps Newt has found an issue that might pay dividends for him before he makes his "decision by Labor Day."

The Rat's are very vulnerable here; and if Newt can again cast himself in the light of a reformer with some distance from his Pub colleagues, he may yet stir things to his advantage.

[Morgan in Denver]

Last year, or the year before that, Newt said he was more interested in his ideas being addressed by candidates than running for office himself. He acknowledged his long-shot status of winning and said he was more interested in candidates adopting his positions.

So far, we have our so-called moderate Republicans in the race. Once a few conservatives get in it we may very well see Newt's ideas take hold and Newt deciding to support rather than run.