For his many flaws, Newt has shown he understands the battle has to be taken to Obama and has also shown he has the ability to take a debate to Obama (and like it or not, that will be important in the general). The question is, can Newt take it to Obama while withstanding the slime machine MSM/DNC attacks?
It's a fair question - look at what was done to Cain with unprovable allegations of sexual harassment. Newt's marital history is an open book - this just deals with one aspect of that.
I don’t think it’s because of the overall weakness of the field but because many folks realize its time for someone who is serious, has a good understanding of history and who can get things done.
What I really want to see is for him to (1) sue them (2) win judgement (3) get damages of $1,000,000 or more (4) make them publish a grovelling apology (5) all before the election. Dreams are wonderful!