It means activists aren't happy with Perry. But, as this poll indicates, that really hasn't hurt Perry with the broader electorate, which is what anyone with any political sophistication would have predicted. The debates, as usual, have been much ado about nothing. We are right where we have been since Perry got in the race. He's the prohibitive favorite. Mitt is the also ran with no support outside the Republican Party's vestigial left wing. Everyone else is a no-hoper.
The dissatisfaction that drove Cain's straw poll win means that there is an opportunity for another conservative candidate. But it is far from clear that there is any candidate ready, willing and able to exploit that opportunity.
The “Perry is Toast” chorus is going to be disappointed. The “heartless” squall, like the gardasil squall will blow over leaving the race exactly as it always was. Perry remains the closest thing we have to a serious conservative candidate. Romney remains a proud progressive statist. Barring a new entry Perry wins, easily.
It's amazing the viciousness of the attack on an issue that is over 10 years old. Sort of makes you go hmmmmmmmmmmmm.
So, you expect Herman Cain to win Florida and/or be the nominee? That is the only way it couldn't be a fluke.
Leading in national polls and in Iowa are far more significant indicators at this point than a straw poll of state not voting until well after the primary process has begun.