The trouble is that the “green guy” hasn’t much of a chance against the Jug-eared Muslim.”
You may of course be right...in which case, it doesn’t matter what happens in the GOP, because I don’t think that either Newt or Romney can win the general.
So with that gloominess, let’s reconsider. Santorum actually posted some pretty good general election numbers against obama this week. IF he starts with what McCain won, and adds Pennsulvania (I know that’s a big IF...but surely there is some residual affection from a guy’s home state...especially one where obama is very unpopular), then, we are down to, yet again, just a few big states. Remember also that the McCain states have picked up like 4 or 5 additional EVs b/c of the census...that’s sort of like throwing in Iowa to the McCain base.
And, in Florida, Ohio, Wisconsin, etc....I think Santorum has a fighting chance because obama is very unpopular in those places. I think any GOP nominee would have a fighting chance, including Romney and Gingrich, but the problem I see with Romney is that he is going to have to convince conservatives (won’t be easy...and will cost time and money) and Gingrich is going to have to convince women and everyone else who is (wrongly) put off by his demeanor.
Yes, the obama people are going to turn the general election into one big discussion of condoms, etc. But if Rick can successfully turn that into “obama is bashing Catholics” (remember, obama won a small majority of Catholics in 08), then, he will come out on the top of that. That conversation will be easier in light of all that has happened last week on the obama contraception mandate. If Rick does THAT, and finds a way to get a leg up in Florida, Ohio, WI, etc....then, I think he has a chance.
I just see a clearer path forward for Santorum right now, rather than Romney or Gingrich. (Make no mistake, though....unlike what appears to be the majority at FR, I will support the GOP nominee b/c obama has to go).
In any event. I am deeply concerned, but that is sort of how I see it at this time....
Same here, and one other point. While much is made of Newt's debating skills, Santorum's are underrated. His taking down of Romneycare was a classic. Rick is quite capable of getting in his share of punches.