I really think most ‘objective’ observers would respectively disagree with you that Mitt is more conservative than Newt. If you look the way they governed that would be a hard case to make. Just saying, I do believe most I know and have heard, would disagree. Rick S. is Dan Qualye at best, and Rick Perry is Fred Thompson all over again. You don’t nap during a campaign. If I am wrong that is fine, I will support them in a general election. I will not be supporting Mitt Romney, and most of my friends will not either. A lot of people think we are blowing smoke, don’t bank on it. Mitt will lose.
For clarification: I never said that Romney was more conservative but that his worldview MAY be. I define Conservatism as using government power only when absolutely necessary and allowing private citizens to meet other needs through the free market.
I don't think Mitt would first approach things from the standpoint of "What can government power do to solve ?" even though he will likely be brought around to that in the end. I believe Newt would use that approach first rather than last.
I may be splitting hairs but I do see a distinction there.
I think either Newt or Mitt would be a disaster for the country, and the Conservative movement, as they would be seen as Conservative even though they are not. That is probably a moot point though, because I think they would each guarantee a second term for the Kenyan Destroyer and we'd all be wearing Mao suits by the end of 2013