I know what you mean about the baggage and the history. It’s a shame.
A Newt/Obama debate would be the closest to a Cheney/Obama debate we would ever see.
Obama would have no chance in a debate against Newt.
Zero would be burnt toast (no racism intended :) ) but Newt will be better served by helping the others with their debating skills. :)
He IS a pro at it!....and knows history backward and forward.