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So much for the “inevitability” talk re: Romney.

Gingrich is well short of what I’d consider a conservative, but he’s a damn sight better than Romney is, and I think a whole lot more competitive in the General.

A large part of Gingrich's problem are his arrogance, and his penchant for thinking out loud. I think he almost enjoys taking nuanced positions that can be misinterpreted, or tossing out controversial ideas for thought, because he likes to demonstrate that he is open-minded and intelligent.

The Pelosi thing is a great example. Newt likely viewed himself as co-opting the global warming issue in a direction that would require conservative solutions. He figures that's a clever way to get some moderates on your side by looking open to the issue, then steering them in your direction. Pure arrogance, because I suspect that while he knew it would be controversial among conservatives, he liked the idea of thinking he was just one step ahead of them.

All that being said, I think that the actual legislation he'd push would be solidly conservative. At this point, I suspect I'll be voting for him in the primary. But I do have real concerns about his arrogance leading to some problems either in the general election, or after being elected.

The man needs a does of humility.