Yes, Newt is an intellectual. Great writer and amazing mind.
But he has what I consider one of the most damaging character traits in one seeking the presidency - the NEED to be LIKED. Leaders who need to be liked cannot make the ultimate hard decisions. Most democrats need to be loved.
You don’t see that need in strong modern presidents like Bush2 and Reagan or other world leaders like Thatcher.
Palin has also proved that she can do without being fawned over.
Nor do you see it in tyrants and demagogues and narcissists like Obama, Chavez, Castro, etc.
You didn’t see it in Mr. Newt either, back in the days when he was gunnin’ down Jim Wright and any other rat that got in his way. He’s been COMPROMISED.