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3 Things to Watch in Tonight’s CNN Debate
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on Feb 22, 2012 in Politics | Comments Off | 230 views 
My 3 things to ponder going into tonight’s debate:
Santorum Surge: The strong wave that Santorum was riding following his triumvirate of wins (Minn, Missouri, Colo.) is beginning to crest, thanks in no small part to Rick’s penchant for speaking at length on social issues. His opinions on contraception and Obama’s ‘theology’ are nothing new but the spotlight of being the frontrunner provided just enough media rope to choke off some of the post victory surge. Santorum has quietly been solid in debates, so he may have a chance to regain momentum; however, as the co-frontrunner he will have to answer for his recent comments. However, it is unlikely he will have to answer those questions from Romney who will not chance appearing to the left of Santorum.
The Real Romney: Let’s face it, a loss in Michigan would not be the end for Romney – but if he does lose, the road to the nomination becomes littered with red flags. He has an excuse, of course, he didn’t support the auto bailout. However, a loss could be the 1st true mortal wound. If he can’t win at home against his Republican rivals – what hope does he have against Obama? While Santorum’s gaffes have weakened him in Arizona, Michigan is still a tight race. It goes to show that authenticity is still Romney’s major hurdle and the lack thereof the only hope for the rest of the field. The last time a debate was held Romney’s major opponent was Newt. Little attention was paid to the Santorum/Romney exchanges given Santorum’s position at the time. Clearly, that will not be the case tonight. Though not the firebrand that Newt is, Santorum is a dangerous debater – authentic and unafraid in squaring off with Romney. Romney’s been able to sit back and watch Santorum implode over the past week. Tonight with so much on the line, how will the Mitt team play their hand? Will he be tough and assertive? Above the fray? Most important will he come off as authentic?
Newt Part 3?: I doubt it will happen but will Newt rise again. The Southern states participating in Super Tuesday give him a chance but he’s been blocked out over the past 3 weeks with the Santorum surge. Not only that, Newt’s most powerful tool – the debate stage – is no longer so potent….at least judging from his performance in Florida. Clearly his opponents, Romney in particular, have figured out how to neutralize Gingrich on his favorite platform. With little organization and 1 billionaire in his back pocket (who is ready to shift to Romney when the time comes) tonight’s debate performance is an opportunity to relaunch whatever is left of his candidacy. If he can breath no new life into his campaign, voters will not simply waste their votes on Super Tuesday, opting to support Santorum in a move to block Romney. Tonight may well decide if Gingrich indeed has 40+ states to go.
