Newt knows this, as do most of Newt's supporters. Especially Newt's financial backers.
If Romney gets the nomination, you can expect a sudden emergence of a third party option. If there ever was a time, it would be now.
“we can afford having Santorum as the nominee”
Ok. Just so I have it straight.
You’re hoping that the following happens.
1, Newt stays in.
2, that Newt gets enough votes to pick up delegates, while at the same time, depriving Romney of delegates, but not Santorum.
3, Santorum + Newt get enough delegates to force a brokered convention
4, Brokered convention brings out the dark horse candidate to the fore who can beat Obama.
Have I understood you correctly? If I’ve not, please correct me.