Newt’s two poor debate performances (poor for him, but still better than most) were a deciding factor. After thinking about this for awhile it seems that the “great” debator has to have several things going his way...
1. He does not do well going on the defensive
2. He feeds off the crowd (best when it is pro-newt)
3. The type of moderator has some impact
4. He’s best when he is able to share big idea and a vision
In a Lincoln/Douglas style debate he would “clean up!” however we all know that AIN’T going to take place with either Mitt or Obama. After the last two debates I’m not sure he is able to handle a hostile debate focused on taking him down.
He can still get coaching between now and the next debate, but he has to do far better at the next one then he did in Florida. Whether we like it or not Newt has to be at the top of his game ALL the time in debates. In Florida the first of the two could have been just a let down, but two in a row hurt him. He can’t let that happen again; however, he has exposed chinks in his armor let’s pray he can fill those holes in during this lull in public action.
You’re right. Newt’s debate weakness seems to be if he is directly and personally attacked. He needs to practice so that the moment such an attack is launched, he can stop it in its tracks. He also had better figure a way to attack Romneycare as Obamacare and not leave it up to Santorum.