When did Romney announce? When did he even say that he would run if the circumstances are right?
On the other hand, while Palin and Huckabee are prominent, their intentions are unclear, Gingrich remains damaged goods, and other candidates are conjectural. Notably, Palin, who is the most dynamic potential GOP candidate, could opt for wealth and influence as a media figure, a better choice for her and her family in many ways than the burdens and brickbats of a Presidential campaign.
In addition, the recession, high unemployment, and out of control federal spending make Romney's business success a potent credential that his rivals do not have. Above all, after the slackness of the Bush years and Obama's shambolic incompetence, the public wants the country back on track. This will make voters in 2012 inclined to prize proven business and managerial ability.
Romney, like Nixon in 1968, is becoming the GOP establishment candidate. If he runs a clever campaign that echoes populist conservative themes and issues, rivals for the GOP nomination will find it hard to gain traction.