MEMORANDUMTO: INTERESTED PARTIES
FROM: ALEX GAGE
STRATEGIST, ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT
DATE: JANUARY 9, 2008
RE: THE PATH TO VICTORY
As we move forward in the primary process, I thought I would take this opportunity to update you on Gov. Romney’s path to victory in the upcoming primaries. After a strong second place finish in Iowa and a tremendous rally to finish in second place in New Hampshire, Gov. Romney has won the most votes of any Republican candidate. The Republican race remains wide open.
Here’s why:
Gov. Romney’s message of change generated momentum in New Hampshire. As recently as Saturday, Gov. Romney trailed in New Hampshire by as many as 14 points (ARG Poll, 1/4-1/5). To come back from a double-digit deficit to finish just 5 points behind John McCain is a tremendous achievement, made possible by Gov. Romney’s debate performance on Sunday night. Frank Luntz of Fox News declared that “Mitt Romney consistently got the best responses of the entire evening” from a focus group of Republican primary voters. And it wasn’t just Sunday’s debate—Gov. Romney’s emphasis on retail politics and our superior grassroots organization also tipped the scales back towards us in the final hours. Gov. Romney closed a great deal of ground very quickly and we expect to continue this strong momentum into Michigan.
Gov. Romney is the best candidate in the Republican field to match up against the Democrats in the fall. Regardless of who wins the Democratic nomination, the contest between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama has refocused the Republican race. Gov. Romney is the Republican candidate who can stand and successfully debate the Democrats about the future of this nation. Republicans know that we must wage a campaign that offers a choice between two clearly different visions for the future, not a choice between the past and the future.
No other candidate is competitive in as many states as Gov. Romney. Gov. Romney is the only candidate who is competitive in every state before February 5: building on our victory in Wyoming and strong finishes in Iowa and New Hampshire, we head to the remaining states with strong organizations in place. Note that Gov. Romney actually beat John McCain among Republicans yesterday (35%-34%) and most of the upcoming primaries and caucuses attract an electorate far more Republican than New Hampshire’s. Yesterday’s results also show that most independents will choose the Democratic ballot in open primary states.
We are taking nothing for granted in any state. But being competitive in every contest over the next month means Gov. Romney will continue to be in the headlines, will continue to pick up delegates, and will continue to build a strong grassroots organization nationwide while other candidates sit on the sidelines. Gov. Romney will also benefit from a base built by our paid and earned media over the past month—no other candidate is in as solid a position in all the remaining January states. Also it is important to remember that the delegate-rich states of Michigan and Florida are winner-take-all by congressional district—a format that will benefit campaigns that have organized their field efforts to focus on key districts.
Bottom line: Gov. Romney has a clear path to victory moving forward. We are prepared to fight and win in the key states throughout the rest of January – putting us in position to win both Super Tuesday and the nomination.
« DNC Begins McCain Bracketing: "Pro-Bush Republican" with "Right Wing Baggage." | Main | The Daily Five: An Awesome Map » Romney Memo: A Path To Victory09 Jan 2008 03:30 pm Comments (76)
If Mike Huckabee had made racial comments about a leading black candidate or sexist comments about a leading female candidate, he would have been castigated by the media. How he was able to launch his surge with religious bigotry is dumbfounding to me. It seems that everyone is oblivious to the obvious. In the event that Mitt Romney does not win the nomination, then history will show that Mike Huckabee pulled off the political crime of the century. It was Mike Huckabee that raised religious issues among Iowa evangelicals by comments toward Romney's religion. As Huckabee's tactics started to show in the Iowa polls, Mitt responded with his "Faith in America" speech. Romney was then forced to work on damage control. Romney's efforts in Iowa payed off and he continued to rise back in the polls but the damage gave him a second in a state he held firmly until Huckabee's misuse of the public forum. McCain saw his window and concentrated on New Hampshire while Romney was being unduely "occupied" in Iowa. Romney was forced to agressively address things detracting from what his positive messaging had been and did so famously. Romney then relied on comparison ads to contrast differences. These ads were constantly referred to as "attack ads" by Huckabee, who continually portrayed him as "desperate" and "attacking". John McCain chimed in on what was working in Iowa and Romney was labeled as running an attack campaign. Now Huckabee is able to capitalize on such tactics and gave McCain's campaign new life. Because of Huckabee's use of the majority evangelical state of Iowa and, with the ignorance of the media toward the Mormon religion, he flew under the radar of a nation that has worked since Lincoln to erase such bigotry. A majority of the nation now sees only that Mike Huckabee won the Iowa caucus and know nothing of the back story. I think it important to present it. Observe for yourself and pass these perspectives along. We need a TRUE man for change with a proven record of turning things around in the oval office. Take a look at what Romney has accomplished and consider the facts and not the "Huckabee Hearsay" or the "McCain Me-Too". Romney is still leading in the delegate count. Michigan, you can make a difference. Vote Mitt Romney 
Mike Huckabee is my choice for the nomination. He is a people person and truly believes in the people having the power in this country. We Americans decide our fate and future for Democracy in the USA. Mike Huckabee was named as one of the top five Governors by Time magazine because how well he left Arkansas after being Governor for over 10 years. Mike Huckabee is for the people, of the people and will be selected by the people. Money cannot buy America as Mitt Romney thinks it can. There is something very dark about the way his campaign is running, and I am afraid of what will happen to the world if he is elected. Mitt has changed position on the issues so much he cannot deny it. He states "It's better to change one mind, than be wrong on the issue" Sure, but not change ones mind back and forth in order to appear to be what people are looking for. Mike Huckabee is an honest man, and he will make America even stronger through the help of the people.
I don't understand why some people think that for the fact that Mitt Ronmey is rich he is trying to buy America's vote.
Huck is an honest man? Have you seen his latest commercial? He's playing class warfare for political gain, telling people Mitt shouldn't win because he's rich. This is AFTER Huck said he'd run a campaign on the issues, not going negative and making suggestions about people's character. I'm sorry, but anyone who says that a person is unfit to be president because he is successful in the real world is markedly un-Republican. Mitt's successes are precisely why he should be president.
Huckabee is far from honest. Hucks son David hung and killed a dog, slits his throat and stoned him. When someone from the State of Arkansas started to investigate the situation. Huckabee tried to cover it up then he fired the person.If that is an honest person? Wow! Huckabee also is putting flyers on the benches of chruches. That certainly is not a seperation of chruch and state. The churches that allow that should lose their tax exempt status. For Huckabee to allow that is certainly not honest. Huckabee was investigated many times for accepting kick backs while in honest and was sanctioned 5 times. Honest? I don't think so. Huckabee wanted to give free to tuition to illegal children. Honest? No Way! How about free tution for my legal children. Huckabee needs to shut his pie whole. If Huck gets the nod my vote goes to the Dems.
Huckabee may be a people person, but at this point in our nation's history we don't just need a people person. We need someone that understands the nature of a global economy and global terrorism, understands the importance of protecting life and traditional marriage, and has the ability to bring together differing views and opinions in order to make real changes in health care, social security, and other domestic issues. There are MANY issues that need to be dealt with and even more ideas about how best to confront them. Now more than ever we need someone that has experience at bringing together differing opinions in order to produce actual results. If you look at all the candidates, based on their merits alone, Mitt Romney stands above everyone else when all issues are taken into consideration. They all have admirable qualities and experience, but NO ONE has the same amount of verifiable experience. Most of the MSM say he's done for, but with as fluid as this campaign has been, he's still leading the delegate count, so don't count him out yet. I project this election will be one that breaks the mold and will be studied for years to come.
Dan is very dark in his attitude really. The future is bright with a Romney admin. This guys resume glows in the dark. And in less then 2 years you would see the way DC works change for the better. But I don't think the country is ready for Romney, he is un popular on both ends of the spectrum.. The Fund. Born Agains and Baptists will never get over the fact he is a faithful LDS guy..... AND The ultra liberal media with their obvious agenda to promote any Democrat with a pulse, doesn't want Romney because they still haven't grown out of that liberal college phase..... The REAL PEOPLE that lose are the American people really. What are you afraid of Dan Campbell ? You think Mitt is going to shove his religon down your throat.... He will not do that Sir.
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Huckabee is NOT TRUST WORTHY. Huckabee had 14 ethnical violations brought against him relating to finances as governor. Shortly before announcing his candidacy for the President of the United States, Huckabee ordered that the drives of 83 computers and 4 servers be destroyed during his transition phase in leaving office. This is what crooked CEO do when they leave a company. Huckabee raised taxes 21 times and granted clemency to 1033 convicted felons, 12 murderers and rapists. Try to improve his tough on crime image with Chuck Norris. (Give me a break! If they were selling weight lose machine it would be more convincing!) He has a 2 1/2 year of religious higher education and as a minister selling religion for a living with people's donation for 12 years. Huckabee is NOT TRUST WORTHY.
Mike Huckabee an honest man? That's a laugh. He's the one who flaunted his "Christian Leader" and white cross in his campaign ads and then went on to say religion has nothing to do with his campaign. His bold-faced lies about the subject show that he is little more than a common liar. The ultimate in the hypocracy is when he calls Mitt Romney dishonest. If that's not the pot calling the kettle black, I don't know what it. Huckaby is out of his league in this race. Romney's shear intelligence is a thing to behold. America would be lucky to have him serve on our behalf. Why a man of his calliber even puts up with the political process is beyond me. It can only be because of a strong desire to serve others, plain and simple.
Actually Mitt Romney has always ran an expensive negative campaign. Even when he was running for Governor, he showed his flip flopped positions. Kennedy, running for senate said "Mitt Romney is not pro-life or pro-choice" "He is multiple choice!" and it's true. Mitt has supported both pro-life and pro-choice. Mitt has supported time-lines and withdrawal from Iraq and yet he has not supported it. It is hard to tell what he supports. He has criticizes Mike Huckabee for his conservative Christian views, but yet at is concession speech in New Hampshire he said "God Bless you all" We want a leader that knows what he believes in. We want Mike Huckabee.
I am Romney supporter and I want to take the high road. So I will not say anything negative. Wait ? Isn't he the guy that was found guilty of 5 or 6 ethic violations against him while Governor and his son hung a dog from a tree and beat it to death and slit it's throat ? But I will not go negative in this campaign, even though Jimmy Carter, I mean Mike Huckabee is from Arkansas
We say that Mitt Romney is trying to buy the election because he has spent almost 100 million in negative ads against the other candidates. Dan is right. We need an honest leader. I also think its true that Mitt Romney is paying a lot of bloggers to type messages in her. Everyone I know or have talked to either want to be Democrats or want Mccain or Huckabee. Everyone I talk to says the same thing "Mitt Romney is an evil snake oil salesman" So those who are getting paid to type in here for him, please tell him America is not for sale!!
What is push polling?
People like Dan Campbell are what we have to deal with here guys... You think your definition of Christians are the only ones that believe in a supreme being (GOD) ? Your arguement really shows your narrow world view..... I have news for Dan, the people you think are going to hell (anyone not Born Again and Baptist) Are good people and alot of them believe in God
Vote for Mitt Romney. He's got the most votes and will likely get better still. Look at his polling trends. His is the most steady and increasing over the long run. He will keep this country safe because he is principled and intelligent like no other candidate. Top 5% of Harvard. Family oriented. Sqeaky clean record of strong leadership. Go Romney!
Mitt Romney will say and do anything to get elected. He is shameless.
Ya what is push polling? Sounds like that guy knows what he is talking about a little too much? My vote is also for Mike Huckabee! I admire his views on all of the issues, and also the eloquence in which he handles himself. Mike Huckabee WAS noted at on of the 5 best Governors in America, I looked it up on Google. And Mitt Romney's only experience is Governor for 4 years after barely getting elected in the first place. Mike Huckabee served as Governor for over 10 years and has a proven track record. Mitt Romney's paid supporters are trying to bend the truth. I love America, and hope to God this man(MITT) cannot actually get away with buying America. I am voting Mike Huckabee.
I saw the comment about Huckabee being an honest man so I had to leave a comment. It should be noted that Huckabee was voted as one of the worst governors because of his many ethical violations. The man responds to truth by lying or making a stupid joke. The American people are not naive enough to believe Huck's cover-ups. Look at all of the bribes and accepting gifts. Who cares if he is a pastor. That doesn't mean believe him no matter what over the facts. That is delusional. Huckabee tries to smear other candidates. His campaign has not been honest. Huckabee will not get the nomination. America's world image would only get worse with Huckabee. He did not perform so well in New Hampshire or Wyoming. What, he received like a third as many votes as Romney and McCain. The point is that Huckabee is an opportunist and has proven corruptible under every circumstance. Why haven't the evangelical leader's endorsed him? He said in the New York Times Magazine that they haven't because they are jealous of him, but when they see that he wins they will all have to come to him on his terms. What kind of nonsense is that. Why don't voters remember these things.
I'm sorry, but if Huckabee won the nomination, I couldn't vote for him. His integrity is questionable. A man of integrity does what he says he'll do. He doesn't say, "I'm not going to air an ad, but I'll show it to the national media and let them air it." A man of integrity would never have shown the press that ad after saying he wouldn't air it. Mitt Romney is the only honest candidate out there. If he changes his mind on a policy, he openly admits it. Huckabee made such a fool out of himself at the Sunday NH Fox debate when he openly changed his views on immigration and tried to stick with one while he held to the new one. He was trying so hard not to flip-flop that he didn't even make logical sense in his argument. He has no integrity. He won't answer an honest question with an honest answer. McCain is a bag of wind. I don't see how anyone can like his personality better than Mitt Romney's. I think Mitt's personality and policies far exceed those of McCain and Huckabee.
I never said anything about anyones religion. I am actually Catholic, not Baptist. I am also a U.S. Marine, and as everyone knows from the verse of the Marines Hymn, "If the Army and the Navy Ever look on Heaven's scenes, So I will be on duty in heaven my friend, I already have my shipping orders!! Semper Fi!
And support Mike Huckabee!!!!
I am with you all Huck supporters. Mitt Romney is dirty and dis-honest. He is a flip flopper and his intention for power are obvious. I like Mike!
Dan, Time also named Vladmir Putin "Person of the Year." They like to be contrarians. My beef with Huckabee is that he is a populist (exactly what you like about him). If I wanted a populist, I'd vote for Edwards. Huckabee is not fiscally conservative, he has no plan for the country, and his foreign policy cred went out the window when he apologized to Pakistan for Bhutto's assassination--a Bush-worthy gaffe. His only recommendation seems to be that he's a nice guy. As for the swipes at Romney's wealth, the other candidates would love to have that problem! They sure can't buy anyone's votes with the money they didn't earn through their own business success or the money they didn't gather toward their campaigns.
Amy... Why don't you ask my wife if I am paid ? LOL I am bored at work and I am just an average guy. I assure you I am not a paid blogger. 100 Million, you need to get your facts straight before you open your mouth. He has raised like 50 or 60 Million and donated about 17 Million of his own money, which he earned honestly. Dan, push polling is illegal and people that support Huckabee are doing it. It' a phone survey, thats the part thats not illegal. What illegal is saying un true and negative things and then not identify. This campaign is about issues that effect all Americans and who if any CAN change DC for the Better. Someones net worth, what religon they are ETC... These are pointless. Scott Taylor
What terrible things has Mitt Romney done to get all of these attacks. I am starting to think these whole anti-Mormon conspiracy theories may be true. I am from Canada. I have met the leaders of my country and I studied political science at Universite de Ottawa. The second highest man in Canadian government was the leader of the Conservative party-similar to republicans. This man was Grant Hill and was a practicing Mormon. When my fellow students and I met him, noone cared about him being a Mormon and I am pretty sure that America must have a lot more Mormons than Canada. The Mormon thing only came up when a student asked what he does when his party beliefs come into conflict with his Mormonism. In Canada you have to represent your constituents even if it isn't your personal view. I swear most Americans do not even understand how politics work. As for Hillary, I hope she wins because she would make America more like Canada and Europe. With socialism, you do not have to deal with all of these religious problems.
Evil snakeoil salesman? Have you even looked at Mitt's history? Have you done any due diligence at all? Unbelievable. The guy has an impeccable history of honesty and ethics. You guys have to get off the flip flopping issue. He has the right to change his stance on what is an important issue (incidentally, his personal view has always been pro-life. His political view was once pro-choice, but only because he wanted to represent the people who elected him) Instead of just naysaying because he has been successful in business and has chosen to fund, in large part, his own campaign (look at all of the unethical money grabbing Huck has done) we should salute a man for supporting himself. I guarantee the other candidates have more money that we may think tucked away . . . but don't want to touch their own dime when they know they can get huge amounts from fundraising efforts. Come up with some legitimate gripes about mitt . . . dont just get on the democratic bandwagon!!
Mike Huckabee actually has the most support: I looked it up on USA Today poll tracker. Mike Huckabee is number one nationwide!! http://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/election2008/poll-tracker.htm#Close Also go to www.pollster.com They also have Mike Huckabee at number 1 I vote for Huckabee no matter what the polls say anyways.
Push polling is for cowards and people that are in bed with Huckabee are doing it in South Carolina, Iowa, NH, and Florida..... Not identifing who is responsbile for the calls, the NH attorney will know who paid for the calls in 2 weeks hopefully. Then we will see who the idiots are ?
Mike Huckabee is a flip-flopper. Go to www.huckabeeflipflops.com. for the latest. He never stops. Mitt Romney currently leads the GOP for delegates. Mitt Romney is attacked because he is rich, intelligent, hard-working, handsome, and good - this is too much for most people. He is the complete package. People don't like mormons in this country because their preachers tell them that mormons are evil in their Sunday meetings because they are afraid that the mormon missionary efforts might drain away their parishioners and their salary. Mormons do not have a paid clergy.
So, Romney has the most delegates and the most votes. He did win Wyoming with a landslide victory by the way. Wyoming receives more delegates than New Hampshire. The worst he has finished is second. No other candidate can claim any of this. Romney made all of his money on his own and his family are involved in many charities and organizations which they have donated much of their money to. How is Romney dishonest? Romney is successful in everything that he sets out to do. How is that a negative thing? So, he is the richest candidate by far. He has a busniness masters and a law degree from Harvard. He has great support and connections. Romney's family is amazing and he has been with the same wife for over thirty years and his whole family works together and are obviously tight and loyal. Sounds like Romney stumbled onto the American Dream. Terrible, isn't it. This said, Romney is the best candidate for the job and he is the most qualified. What other candidate compares?
Oh you guys are still here? Take your headsets off, tap the guy on the shoulder next to you and give each other a big hug. You are doing a great job for Mitt Romney and I am sure he is paying you well. America still cannot be bought!
Dan,get over yourself. I appreciate that you dont support Mitt Romney, but give me a break. I am sitting in my office at a hospital in pocatello idaho waiting fro 5:00 so that I can go home. That was very typical, however, for you to make a jab without bringing up a legitimate point. Are you sure you're not sitting in a huckabee call center?
Sorry, but the (Romney is paying people to post) argument does'nt fly. I have been a life long resident of Alaska and have never even met Romney nor have I ever at any time even recieved a cent from him. In fact back in December I decided to actually send him a donation for his campaign. I was only able to send $50 as funds are tight but the fact is I support the man because I believe in his message as many others do in the country. I know many Alaskans who support Romney and come Super Tuesday we all plan to make our vote count for Romney. And the reason we support him is because I have no doubt that he can turn our economy around and make America strong again. The thing everyone on here needs to realize is we'r in a recession people!!! The next step from there is a depression! Our country is bleeding internally financially as people left and right are losing their homes. Food is increasingly becoming more expensive and for the first time in years the American dollar is worth less then the Canadian or Europe dollar.
I wish I could get paid for all the good things I have to say about Mitt. But I'm doing it for free. He's well worth it! I also donate to his campaign. I'm from Texas and have not had the opportunity to meet any of his staff. I'd love to meet him, though, and shake his hand.
Mike Huckabee has ran a positive campaign so they have not made a site called MittFlipFlops.com, you did a nice job of trying to make something out of nothing. I challenge everyone who happens to read my comments: Copy and paste the various links below, added to youtube by American people. Nothing has been added to the clips, they are just news clips. Watch Mitt Flip Flop on every issue: Here are some highlights; And "I changed my view, I was pro-choice, now I'm pro-life, whats wrong with that" And "I saw my father marching with Martin Luther King" later cornered he said "well I meant I didn't actually see it with my own eyes, but he supported Martin Luther, thats what I meant" And on and on and on! You decide! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inmijrUIA-4 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQvny6CKcNc http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=up60e-ygalU http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xF0iVBCM-Oo
Mitt Romney was born to wealth and privilege. He thinks that the man who accrues the biggest fortune wins. He doesn't mind castigating those who stand in his way when they are not there to defend themselves. His changes on positions indicate that his views are determined by the audience. As opposed to Romney who could not get re-elected in Massachusetts, the people of Arkansas showed what they thought of Mike Huckabee by re-electing him repeatedly. He has core convictions and bold ideas for the future. The people of Iowa and New Hampshire have seen the millions of dollars that Romney spent on ads and they have spoken. It would be best for Romney to withdraw as soon as he loses again in Michigan.
Popular Vote Seems to favor Romney even if Wyoming is not included!
I love that Dan!! Next, why don't you do a you tube search for mormon, or even better do a google search for mormon or anti-mormon. You are obviously an "objective consumer" of the media bull . . . I'm sure that what you find will really support your personal agenda. If you want objectivity, don't look to information that is purposefully decontextualized solely to create fodder for bandwagoners like yourself.
Let's let the mudslinging begin MSM!!! The institution called the Mormon Church that Mitt Romney is a member of is as Racist, Bigoted, Sexist, and Homophobic as they come... and that's today... now... at this moment. Let's take him down MSM!!! Ron Paul for President... end this stupid war!
Wow, that is the voice of a true american!! If people with that attitude are voting for huckabee, I hope beyond hope he is not elected!! You obviously know nothing about the Mormon church. Again, if you want objectivity, you may consider going to the source, rather than scanning anti-mormon literature (in whatever form you seem to have found it).
Hey we all know that the best person for our president is Mitt Romney. He is the guy that can change washington. And mike huckabee just forget abaut that guy he is wrong abaut everything. the man we need is Mitt Romney lets all support the best man for the job thats Mitt Romney. GO OUT AND VOTE FOR HIM.
I'd like to point out something some seem to overlook: 1. There are 2 ways to pay for a campaign ... 1. Spend your own money ; 2. Spend special interest money. Republican or Democrat, the special interest "cancers" in each party keep elected officials from keeping their promises. They're too busy paying back the guys who paid for their campaign. Mitt Romney's paying for his campaign himSELF--should put you at ease. Would you rather some lobbyist paid for it? 2. Yes, Mitt Romney was born into privilege. But, every person in this country was born into the same privilege. The United States is a privilege, and provided Mitt his opportunities. He ceased them, worked hard, and earned each one.
If you google 'Huckabee flip flops' you will find many 'respectable' sources that are not affiliated with the Romney campaign that describe his many changes in platform. That label can be applied to McCain as well. As for Ron Paul, I don't think he's really going to go too far in the election, although he seems to be a good man. It's unfortunate that one of his supporters doesn't think with an open mind like Ron Paul.
Wow after reading al these comments today, I learned more about Huckabooboo than I knew before, and they are attacking Romney, the truth is, let's be honest, many people don't like Romney because Mormonism says, that it's more than grace to save someone, okay, now what's the problem with that, nothing, next, Mitt is someone born in wealth but has accomplished much, that's great, but then we hear Mcains mother say it was 'those mormons' that messed up the olympics to begin with, whatever...I think these men are jealous, that's all it is, and if Huckabooboo has made some boo-boos and we don't know about it and he's got most of the christians behind him, wow do they need to take the blinders off, he can talk the talk, but, I don't think he's walked the walked, that is, I think there's some dirt on him, if these things he did or didn't do in office are correct, as for Romney if all you can say is he flip-flopped on the pro-life thing, and that's about it, then jealousy is definitely the problem, Huckaboo is personable, but after reading these things, I don't want him in there, I'd rather have the bag of air Mcain
Dan, Will you be my friend? I'm trying to be diversified.
Please I just wish to thank all of contributors to this forum for your passionate and intelligent assessments to the issues facing the country at this unprecedented moment. MITT ROMNEY IS THE OBVIOUS CHOICE.
To Robin or any other Huckabee supporters who recite the same talking points: If Mitt Romney will indeed say or do anything to get elected, why has he not done the one thing that would likely help him most. Wouldn’t it be politically expedient for him to renounce his Mormon faith? That’s the singular issue that could sink his candidacy. If he would do that one thing, his polling numbers would soar overnight and the big hurdle to his nomination would suddenly disappear. For an unprincipled man who will do anything, why won’t he do that one thing?
David E7 on Mitt Romney being born to wealth and privilege: I conceed that having a father of the caliber of George Romney and being raised by him would be a privilege. Imagine having a Dad who was a refugee from the Mexican Civil War who lived years in poverty and never got a college degree - who rose to not only be a turnaround CEO but who was studied for his commendable business ethics and elected 3 times governor. And a Dad who supported MLK, worked with him, marched in King Marches. A Dad who led Detroit organizing for WWII and who was selected by General Marshall to immediately follow his Address to Congress on the Crisis in Europe and present the nuts and bolts case to Congress for the "doability" of the Marshall Plan? I agree Mitt was privileged. He was raised by a Dad up from nothing who worked with each of his children to give them the ethos that would help make them successful without spoiling them. Mitt Romney worked hard chores, did summers on an uncle's ranch to learn how tough a farmer or rancher's life was, and later spent 2 1/2 years in an austere, monastic life as a Mormon missionary in a hardscrabble blue collar French community that generally disliked Mormons. With Mitt, George Romney lucked out even more because his youngest son was quickly seen to be brilliant. Mitt did not get into Harvard on his Dad's wealth or influence. After getting into Stanford on recommendations of his HS teachers of being a "once-in a lifetime student", Romney compiled a 3.97 GPA in college, was a student leader, and Valedictorian. He was recruited by Harvard. Romney emulated his father in living a modest lifestyle which continues in many ways to the present. Non-patrician tastes, very unlike Kerry and Kennedy. Nor did George Romneys modest wealth and large influence support Mitt as he started out in business (The Romney family gave the bulk of George's earnings away and he famously sent back 40% of his pay as CEO of American Motors as "too much pay"). By 35, Mitt made more than his Dad but was still packing 7 family into a station wagon (with the famous dog on the roof) and still living a middle class lifestyle...but had already talked to his Dad about donating any inheretance he or his Mom Lenore had planned for Mitt to go to charity instead. (George Romney tricked him a little by setting up college trusts for Romney's 5 kids saying he was proud to be able to help his grandkids get the college education he was too poor to get himself). All in all, a pretty commendable family. As deserving of the scornful "born of wealth and privilege" label the Left loves to hang on non-Democrats who happen to be well off, as FDR, Carter, Kerry, Gore, JFK, and RFK would deserve if they happened to be non-Democrats that Lefties could include in their class warfare crosshairs.. DavidE7 - As opposed to Romney who could not get re-elected in Massachusetts. Jesus, if he ran as a Republican for reelection after the Iraq War went sour, could not be reelected in Massachussetts. the people of Arkansas showed what they thought of Mike Huckabee by re-electing him repeatedly. He has core convictions and bold ideas for the future. Substitute "Bill Clinton" in the above sentence for "Mike Huckabee". Repeated reelections of slick-talkers mired in scandal does seem to say a lot about native Arkansan's mental abilities. ************* And McCain has character, temperment, and integrity issues that Dole and Bush II are thankfully (for them) free of. One thing I have been creeped out for years on - listening to Mccains frequent press conferences with Democrats and RINOs like Spector he emerges from backrooms with - is by McCain's wierd passive-aggressive greeting to enemies he hates, the media, and his booster pals and war-hero worshippers - all - as "My friend" or, "My dear friend". McCain had "difficulties" after returning from Vietnam, with issues of comportment, erratic behavior, temperment, character, integrity, and rampant adultery. But the "My friend", "My Dear Friend" greeting continues...which genuinely means "brother" to a POW-worshipping fan of his, or could mean "I hope you die you fucking asshole" when he says it to Kay Bailey Hutchinson, John Yoo, or Mitt Romney or 6 thousand other people McCain believes "crossed him".
I could never vote for a man like Mike Huckbee after he attacked Mitt Romney's beliefs. Anyone who is so intolerant of another persons beliefs should never be President. As President you need to be able to work with people of different races religions and beliefs. How would he react to leaders of other countries because they don't believe anything the same to his beliefs. I can just hear him now" I don't want to hear anymore from you why don't you believe in a Budda doll"or whatever the case may be.Mitt Romney has taken all kinds of abuse because he is a mormon and done so with dignity.Are you going to vote for religion or for the best man for the job.
Does Huck have a lazy eye? When he looks in the camera sometimes it seems like he has one eye going another direction. How will foreign leaders view this guy? First, he has no clue what is going on with their countries, and number 2 he can't even look them eye to eye... And whats with Chuck Norris, give me a break lol. Chuck & Huck, Chuck & Huck! HIIIII YAAAA
We need a person who will serve his country. Mitt Romney took no salary in Mass. Took no pay for all of his many years of service in leadership positions in the Church. (non-paid ministry) and May have took no salary at the olympics and will likely not take a salary as President. Motive? To serve his country and fellow men. If you know nothing else about him SERVICE could be his middle name. The media wants him out. He is the only true conservative in the field.
Two things: 1) Funny how the only Ron Paul supporter in this forum would post such comments "annonymously"--of course. If you are going to accuse a religion, at least have the courage to state your name. I have no problem signing my name next to my belief or disbelief. 2) It's not that I 'hate' Huckabee, as Michael Medved suggests in his radio show (I'm a long time fan of Medved's, but have been puzzled to hear him lately with such animosity against Romney while building up Huckabee while saying he supports McCain--starts to sound too much like a career politician--but that's another story)... The thing with Huckabee, for me, is that he looks totally like Kevin Spacey in American Beauty, totally innocent looking but crooked enough to be willing to put himself through anything to look cool to the young slut that is his daughter's friend, only to realize that she was a virgin and now, oh well, too bad because his neighbor kills him for thinking that he's in bed with his teenage son, who is actually selling him pot---you get the idea... too complicated for someone who looks so innocent. I can't even think of one brilliant thing that Huckabee has said, other than that he'll be a president that "reminds you of the guy you work with rather than the guy who fired you"....puhleezz... I'm not yet a US citizen (I'm here LEGALLY), which means I get to merely watch the whole political scene without being able to participate (I have enough integrity not to show up in New Hampshire as a 'first time voter'), so my opinion has no bearing in the election..... sad, sad, sad... but regardless, I think that the media and the Dems in general are crossing their fingers for Huckabee, as he would be the weakest Republican to run against any (ahem, ahem) Hillary or otherwise... and then we'll all wish we'd elected somebody who may have looked too good to be true--Mitt Romney, of course.
As a Baptist preacher Huckabee preached hate and intolerance for religions OTHER than Mormonism...Catholics are another target though not the favorite. I would think that Dan might be bothered by that. I liked Huckabee until he made his VERY calculated statement regarding Mormons. The man was the Keynote Speaker in SLC for the Southern Baptist convention. Look it up. He knew exactly what he was doing - presenting a half truth (the very thing he accused Mitt Romney of). The Baptist preachers are taught how to confront Mormonism! He also has quite a record in regard to ehtical issues and I believe these things aren't brought up by the media is because they WANT him nominated - who easier to beat! The only issue that John McCain is strong on is the war - except that he doesn't believe in waterboarding...he thinks that will provoke our enemies to do the same to our soldiers. Does waterboarding compare to beheading? His logic is absolutely lost on me. On other issues he may as well be a Democrat. I would also be willing to bet that he would take Huckabee as a running mate - I will NOT vote for Huckabee, I'd rather vote for Hillary )pretty much the same thing.) Mitt Romney would be winning these primaries by a landslide if voters actually educated themselves. Mitt Romney was born into wealth - is that his fault? Has he done nothing but spend daddy's money? No - he went to school, he worked hard and he made his own success. Isn't this a capitalist country? Isn't that what we stand for? He CHANGED HIS MIND on abortion - how is that a bad thing? Actually I think he has always been pro life but believed that the choice belonged to the woman. Isn't that Guilliani's position now? It is ridiculous that because the man has wealth and is willing to spend his own money to be President we tear him down. Class envy belongs to the Democrats doesn't it? How many businessmen would shut down their company and fly it's staff to New York to search for the child of a coworker? He didn't accept a salary for his work on the Olympics and as far as I know he didn't accept the governors salary either. Mike Huckabee signed up for a wedding registry so that he could accept gifts over $100.00, he had been married over 20 years at the time. One man has real character and one man doesn't - you make the choice. Evangelicals are taught half truths and distortions about the Mormon faith. It's a shame that in a country like ours religious bigots have so much control of an election. There are some that are willing to think for themselves and not blindly follow the leader - they voted for Romney. I'm sorry that this post is so long - I believe that Mitt Romney is by far the best candidate for President. Evangelicals - please go to Mormon.org and discover for yourselves that Mormons aren't the "cult" you have been taught. They are Christian. Another place to check is Fairlds.org. It will answer all the anti mormon rhetoric you've been told.
Romney won more delegates for Wyoming (8) than McCain did for NH (7). Romney has the most votes and the most delegates overall right now! Romney has an impecable record of honesty in a long life of executive leadership.
One more thing - Mike Huckabee graduated from a Bible College and Mitt Romney from Harvard. It's a no brainer for people who care about their country and not which Christian faith one believes in - and again, Mormons ARE Christian.
Is anyone else getting tired of the whole "I was in the military, so worship me" line. Just because we're at war, it seems like so many people who have served in the armed forces expect us to stand in awe and shut our mouths whenever they blurt out something like "Semper Fi." Even veterans who served in peacetime as REMFs are cashing in on it. I know a guy who served in Iraq, does drugs, drinks and drives, and expects the cops to turn a blind eye to his DUI because he's a war veteran. Politicians and journalist are playing this card like no one else: "This guy was in Iraq and he said such and such, so it must be true, and no one can question it." Don't get me wrong. I have great admiration for those who enter the military out of a desire to serve their country. McCain probably plays this card a bit too much, but he's earned the right, and those people trash talking him should give due respect. I support George W. Bush, but I thought it was pretty lame that he played the service card, and really didn't do anything. Come on Dan. Come up with an intelligent argument if you want people to listen to you. Don't just throw out the, "I was a Marine, Semper Fi" line, and ridiculous conspiracy theories. Rich is bad, poor is good, Huckabee loves the simple guy. Are you sure you're a republican. I thought only dems subscribed to such simplistic arguments. Give me a break.
I have a friend who is concerned that John McCain is the Manchurian Candidate in real life. At first I thought she was crazy but am not quite so sure now! Yes David, I agree. I'm sick of the "I served my country" card as well. I appreciate his service but the rest of his record seems more like a democrat. Huckabee is a joke, the only thing he has going for him are the evangelicals who choose the preacher over his record as governor. It's insane. Mitt Romney is a proven leader and I hope I have the opportunity to vote for him!
David Jones - Is anyone else getting tired of the whole "I was in the military, so worship me" line. Just because we're at war, it seems like so many people who have served in the armed forces expect us to stand in awe and shut our mouths whenever they blurt out something like "Semper Fi." I'm a Vet of the Gulf War and all I want is excellent VA care for the injured, society to recognise and accomodate those with job handicaps from military service over and above those handicapped from nature or accident as a token of respect. I appreciate people that commend me on my service and I appreciate the employers that recognize the valuable skills, stability, good health, and low crime of ex-military compared to general population. I don't demand Vet "worship" as an entitlement and I think those that do should blow it out their asses. Generally, they come from the lowest skill and most insecure of ex-military or families of military anyways. The military that do claim huge "bow before me, the Hero" or "worship my total moral authority from Victimhood" entitlements have been led by the media to think they deserve it. This stuff goes in waves. Soldiers killed in Vietnam or maimed into lifetime disability along with soldiers of great valor were not given special media treatment, but POWs were treated like Rock Stars and 35 years later, JOhn McCain is still out milking that entitlement to higher office daily - though the other 561 POWs who returned with McCain didn't demand they be worshipped for long, if at all. A Recent wave started with the famous "Victim Families" of 9/11 "entitled and empowered" to weigh in on all 9/11 subjects and make demands including such things as the Families preference for CIA redesign, how the WTC must be rebuilt, why a national jet-proofing of all skyscrapers had to be embarked on, and showing up as Presidential endorsers. And the cops and firefighters that insisted anyone who happened to be a government employee in uniform was a hero to be worshipped. Then media and politicians got on the new wave of worshipping "The Troops!" also known as "The Heroes!" based on the cops and fire people's past pandering to and their insistence that just being in the uniform is enough to be a Great Hero. And Lefties found their most special love of "Troops We Support!" was limited to dead ones that filled up the "Body Count List" that they hoped would give the Left more power and clout. And because Bush is inarticulate, the Left has succeeded in casting the war almost entirely in terms of "poor dead heroic American children too stupid and lazy to go to college" or "innocent Iraqis killed by other innocent Iraqis which makes it all America's fault." Even though the casualties (on the American side) have been extraordinarily light, and as civil wars go, the Iraqis, thanks to an American buffer, might get out of it with a far lower per capita casualty and cleansing rate.
Mitt Romney is seriously wounded. NH always, ALWAYS hands victories to local, native sons. That Mitt couldn't pull off a first place victory is a sign of his weakness as a candidate. As to the religious bigotry, it appears to be largely a GOP phenomenon. I mean, blue state, liberal bogeyman forever of the GOP, Massachusetts gave Romney an electoral victory. The allegedly Godless Democratic Party is led by Harry Reid, a Mormon. The GOP is the party of religious intolerance and bigotry. Hope you GOP-ers build some more roosts, because the chickens are coming home. -GSD
First of all, McCain was campaigning in NH while everyone else was still in Iowa. He didn't even bother with Iowa. After the Sunday debate in NH, a room full of 'undecideds' were almost unanimously swayed for Romney. I suppose Mitt paid them all off to, eh Dan? But that was kind of late in the game, and not everyone in NH watched the debate. If Romney had as much time as McCain campaigning there, he certainly would have swayed a lot more 'undecideds.' The fact is that he has a history of consistently winning over debate audiences, because he answers questions with straight answers. This wasn't the first time. He has real credentials, and he quantifies them. He doesn't just keep milking the same lame cows until they're dead, like many of the other candidates. Who cares about Time Magazine! And, unlike our Time Magazine wonder boy, he admits his mistakes, and doesn't just change the subject. Karl Marx was for the common man too. Maybe you can bring him back from the dead, and vote for him. The cool thing about the GOP is they don't have to shovel peoples side walks and drag them to the polling booths to get votes.
Good point, GSD. I'm LDS, GOP, and I'd be happy with Paul, McCain, Romney or Thompson. If the Republicans are dumb enough to nominate Huckabee, I'll either vote for Obama or Bloomberg. Huck is running on personality, his guitar-playing skills, his BFF Chuck Norris, his Baptist brethren, and the fair tax. The fair tax is worth debating, but when it comes to actual ideas, Paul has some, McCain has some, Romney has some, Thompson has some, and Huck has the Religious Right ready to take over a party and teach evolution's a lie. I resent that haters like Pat Robertson call this their party. Then again some Democrats probably wish Robert KKK Byrd wasn't one of theirs. Since the media is focussing more on personalities and virtually zero on issues, Huck's going to do pretty well. Notice how after the Saturday debate, the only clips the news played were Huck and McCain ganging up on Romney. When you go to Fred's website, you see he really does have a plan for this country. but all we get is his folksy manner. When you got to Mitt's website, you can see everything he's done and what he will do. But the impression most people get is "I hunt varmints, if you will." At least Mitt keeps his promises when elected. That's certainly Dubya didn't do. BTW, most supporters of McCain, Romney, Fred, Rudy would like to move on from the religion question. Huck's people keep bringing it up. It's their wedge issues. Between that and the dirty push-poll tactics, and Huck's "innocent" question about Mormons, claiming he doesn't know much about them even though the SBC teaches all its preachers the same anti-Mormon rhetoric, well, I know Obama and Bloomberg are more honest and less divisive than Huck.
And let's be honest. If Rudy was a faithful Catholic and a front-runner, Huck and his followers would be using the same tactics to take him down.
As an honest-to-god gay Massachusetts voter, I appreciated Mitt for his ability to represent all Massachusetts residents, gay and straight. He upheld the law meticulously with the judicial ruling allowing gay marriage in the state. I can't fault him for making political hay at the expense of people like me, but I see his so-called political flip-flopping as just nuanced integrity.
This campaign has disappointed me more than any I can remember. Maybe because I am older and pay more attention . . . but the unrelenting "party-line voting", and unwillingness to vote for a candidate on the basis of character and qualifications just stuns me. Why is it that the fact Huck was a governer for longer than Romney makes any difference at all? People throw the political experience of the other candidates around like it is somehow a desireable trait. Has anyone else noticed that the government, atleast the most recent iterations of our government, isn't working that well? Why wouldn't we want some fresh ideas from a guy that has clearly done some important life and business due diligence?! We need to forget about playing politics!! The world needs a man like Mitt Romney to step in and lead this country to the higher ground it should be on. Will he ever make a mistake? We all know that every President will, at some point in time, be forced to make a decision between two bad options. For my part, I would love to have an honest, ethical, hard-working in a position to make those decisions. Lets not forget that belonging to a particular religion doesn't determine the kind of person you are. The decision to make every day choices, small and large, that are centered on a greater sense of "right" and "good" are what determine a persons character. Throw the gosh darn politics out the door for a second and ask yourself who of the candidates fits that description. The answer ends up being pretty clear . . . bad fruit just doesn't come from a good tree!!
Romney is a douchebag -- coming from someone who witnessed his douchebaggery up close when he was governor. He'll do and say anything to get elected, which has nothing do with being a Mormon and everything to do with being dishonest. Saying he changed positions only because he wanted to "represent the people" who elected him in Massachusetts is the worst sort of partisan hackery. Go John McCain!
The press is not reporting the republican campaign fairly or accurately. Mitt Romney is currently leading the GOP race with 30 delegates - Huckabee 21, Guiliani 10. Each has won a state. Romney - Wyoming, Huckabee - Iowa, McCain - New Hampshire. If you can add at a first or second grade level, you can compute that Romney has the most votes and the most delegates at this point in the campaign. How can the press say that Romney is not doing well? Actually, they are just trying to downplay that he is winning and cover it up. I'm not sure that a free press that misrepresents the truth is any better than a controlled press.
Jeff in Boston . . . don't you think it would be better to make some specific and objective statement about why you are dissatisfied with Romney? When you put out a shallow blanket statement that generalizes what is obviously some personal bias, you make your self look like an unobjective moron. Everyone on here would do better to point out the positive about there candidate of choice, rather than bashing on the others. If Mitt Romney has made one mistake, that is it. He should never have gotten so involved in the mudslinging.
Glad to see the Romney army out in such force, but frankly the reason I would never vote for Mitt has nothing to do with his religious affiliation and everything to do with what feels like an utter lack of conviction. Ideologically (and certainly financially) Romney positioned himself in a way that should have carried him to the big wins he counted out in Iowa and New Hampshire. The fact that he failed to take either speaks to a visceral dislike that I think will follow him as far as he goes in this election. My gut tells me that Mitt Romney is probably a decent guy and an effective leader. But what do I see from Mitt Romney the candidate? A poll-driven, focus group-honed automaton, a nonstop pandering machine. Republicans were ready to vote for Romney the person. They're balking at Romney the candidate.
To call Mitt a "focus group-honed automaton" and "poll driven" is probably accurate . . . but then again, in a race that is almost certainly going to be determined by "politics", rather than character, ethics and qualification, don't you think any candidate that has any hope for the nomination has to be pretty "honed" to those things? The pandering comment, I think, is a bit off. I hardly think Mitt is making promises or changing views to exploit the weak-mindedness of the people. That word is, in and of itself, a political cuss word. Is he out there trying to get his message out? Yes. And since the beginning of his campaign, he has maintained, without deviation, his political agenda. When you talk about flip flopping, you are talking about one issue. One. The subtle nuances of that very important issue make it an impossible one to talk about, especially with a media that will take what you say, blow it out of context, and shove it back in the people's face as an unequiviocal statement of belief. Still, if you get away from you-tube, and listen to each of his statements about the topic in context, you might be suprised that he hasn't "flipped" quite as much as you think.
Romney is the smartest and most capable candidate. He is having to fight a constant firestorm of inaccurate information generated by Huckabee, McCain and a willing press. The majority of the money he has spend is normal contributions like everyone else. (Hillary and Obama have both spent more). It's hard to know where to start describing Huckabee's failings. I just wish American would wake up and stop being fooled. I would vote for Hilary before Huckabee.
People actually like Romney a lot (anyone who's actually seen him speak or met him, and not just read about him on the blogs or the press). Yes he's businesslike. So? He's supposed to be CEO of the friggin' country. Doesn't mean he doesn't care. of course he cares, he could be banking millions in the private sector - so instead he takes this abuse to help his country? Huckabee keeps saying "People would rather have the guy they work with for a Pres, than the boss who laid him off" Doh! Does lunchbucket Joe want his pal, Ed, for President of the United States of America? Right, the boss is a jerk. Is that all business does? Rape the little people and lay them off? How many of us have jobs because someone smart enough and capable enough runs the company. And even if he weren't nice - I need him to save the economy, stare down Aquavelvajad and Putin, get manufacturing back from China to the USA, etc. Huckabee? ya, right. He can play his base while all the jobs go to China.
People actually like Romney a lot (anyone who's actually seen him speak or met him, and not just read about him on the blogs or the press). Yes he's businesslike. So? He's supposed to be CEO of the friggin' country. Doesn't mean he doesn't care. of course he cares, he could be banking millions in the private sector - so instead he takes this abuse to help his country? Huckabee keeps saying "People would rather have the guy they work with for a Pres, than the boss who laid him off" Doh! Does lunchbucket Joe want his pal, Ed, for President of the United States of America? Right, the boss is a jerk. Is that all business does? Rape the little people and lay them off? How many of us have jobs because someone smart enough and capable enough runs the company. And even if he weren't nice - I need him to save the economy, stare down Aquavelvajad and Putin, get manufacturing back from China to the USA, etc. He doesn't need to be my friend. Huckabee? ya, right. He can play his bass while all the jobs go to China.
I am so happy to have found this site where there are positive intelligent posters supportive of Mitt Romney. I was getting so depressed listening to all the garbage out there. It is pretty obvious that there is an awful lot of fear of this man. He is the real deal and so near flawless that it drives his adversaries nuts. Thankfully I have found all of you and a voice of reason. I could not even begin to match some of the great comments in favor on this exceptional man. Mitt stands head and shoulders above all the others, the smart people know it....All the radio hosts know that romney is the guy. Its pretty obvious and also obvious that they DO NOT like huck or mccain't...what does that tell their supporters when respected radio guys like Rush, Hannity, Ingraham, Oreilly, Hewitt all have criticized Huck and McCain't. They all love Mitt. Oh, maybe they are all getting paid to say nice things about him too??? Which reminds me.......Mitt when do I get paid for my blogs?? Brother..kids say the darndest things!
Church norris said if Huckabuck (jealous of Romney's money and good looks) if he had he had Romney's money he would have flown like an eagle. Church NOrris is a loser, jealous and Mitt Romney wantabe. Now the real message is not what Huckabuck would do if he had Romney's money. BUt, to learn how to be top at Harvard like Romney was, and to make money know how do business and make money like Romney does. Everyone who Romney has helped and there are hundreds has made money. I'll not be buying Chuckie boys equpirment anytime soon, it might be rigged.
To know MItt Romney as I know Mitt Romney is to love the man, he's all man and he should be America's man. Hope America doesn't blow it on the likes Obama, Hillary or McClain their all a small back of wolves as for Huckabee, why doesn't he jsut give it up on Romney, let his covetness and jealous go. There are real people with real problems----he's too silly to be alive
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"Also it is important to remember that the delegate-rich states of Michigan and Florida are winner-take-all by congressional district."
How can your campaign organization be "stellar" when you don't even know how Florida picks its delegates? After being sanctioned, RPOF rules say that all 57 delegates go to the statewide winner. True, if Florida ends up being able to seat it's original 114, that they would be apportioned by CD, but if the battle lasts till convention, ain't no way the person who wins Florida will acquiesce and let more opposition delegates be seated.
Posted by RS | January 9, 2008 4:13 PM