Category: Romney, Mitt | Main

Did Romney Predict McCain Defeat to Obama?

July 16, 2008 3:49 PM

ABC News' Matt Stuart Reports:  Since dropping out of the presidential race in February, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney has made a nearly seamless transition from party rival to prolific supporter of presumptive Republican nominee John McCain.

But will the attacks of a contentious primary season come back to haunt Romney, whose star is rising the Republican veepstakes after aggressive fundraising and surrogate appearances on McCain's behalf? After all, Romney and McCain battled repeatedly through the primary season, most notably leading up to the critical New Hampshire and Florida contests in January of this year. 

Campaigning in New Hampshire in January, Romney painted a bleak picture of McCain's chances in the general election against Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., when Romney was asked if Republicans should fear the Illinois senator's ability to resonate with voters.

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE.

"I think Barack Obama would be able to do to John McCain exactly what he was able to do to the other senators who are running on the Democratic side," Romney said at the time, describing McCain as "not the best match-up" against Obama.

"I frankly don't think that Senator McCain, despite his service and his length of experience, that that's going to be able to stand up to the message that Barack Obama has brought forward," Romney argued.

When asked for clarification of his comments, Romney spokesman Eric Fehrnstrom stated, "Every candidate is entitled to the conceit that he or she is the most qualified person for the office they seek and to vigorously make that case to the voters. Mitt Romney is no different in that regard. Now that the primary is over, Mitt Romney is doing everything he can to help elect John McCain."

Now a surrogate for McCain on cable television and on the stump, Romney has touted the Arizona senator as an experienced contender who is best prepared to lead the nation.  McCain has been similarly cordial, saying that Romney "has earned a great place in our Republican Party," and that he's "very grateful" for his support. McCain even joked recently that Romney "does a better job for me than he did for himself".

Appearing on the FOX News' "Hannity & Colmes" earlier this month, Romney stated that he often acknowledged during the primary campaign that McCain was "a person of great capability who's been tested and proven and someone who I respect enormously."  And, in fact, Romney often went out of his way to preface his comments on Sen. McCain, calling him "a good man," and "a national hero."

While Romney has gone to great lengths to bridge the divide that once separated the campaigns -- throwing his support behind McCain a week after he left the presidential race -- these comments, and others like it, could prove most damaging to his chances at becoming McCain's second-in-command on the November ticket.

July 16, 2008 in McCain, John, Obama, Barack, Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (46) | TrackBack (0)

McCain's Veepstakes Survivor: 9 Couples, 3 Contenders, 1 Weekend

May 21, 2008 6:46 PM

ABC News' Ron Claiborne and Bret Hovell Report: Three elected officials widely rumored to be under consideration for the Republican vice presidential nomination will spend part of their Memorial Day weekend at the McCain compound in Sedona, Arizona, according to a campaign official.

Gov. Bobby Jindal of Louisiana, Gov. Charlie Christ of Florida, and former Gov. Mitt Romney of Massachusetts have all been invited to spend some leisure time with presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz.

McCain campaign senior advisor Charlie Black insists the gathering is purely social.

"It has nothing whatsoever to do with the vice presidential selection process," Black said, dismissing speculation that it is a running mate audition by noting that would be "pretty awkward" to have all of the contenders together at the same time.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT ABC NEWS' VEEPSTAKES RANKINGS

McCain frequently invites friends and elected officials to the property he owns with his wife Cindy two hours north of Phoenix. Black said nine couples in all were invited this weekend, including one other elected official whom he declined to identify.

One veepstakes contender did comment on what could be called McCain's edition of 'Veepstakes Survivor'.

"Governor Bobby Jindal and First Lady Supriya Jindal are going to Arizona for the Memorial Day weekend to spend time with Senator John McCain and Cindy McCain at their ranch," Jindal spokesperson Melissa Sellers said in a statement released to the press. "The Governor has met with the Senator many times before and discussed the challenges facing the Gulf Coast region as communities continue to rebuild. The Governor looks forward to joining Senator McCain and his other guests this weekend, and he values this as another opportunity to meet with a national leader, and the potential next President of the United States, to discuss issues important to the future growth of Louisiana."

As Sens. Barack Obama, D-Ill., and Hillary Clinton, D-N.Y., continue their battle for the Democratic nomination, the Arizona Senator is taking three days off from his public campaign schedule for the holiday weekend.  McCain will be back on the trail Monday in New Mexico and Colorado.

ABC News' Kate McCarthy contributed to this report.

May 21, 2008 in Clinton, Hillary, McCain, John, Obama, Barack, Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Democrats, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (86) | TrackBack (0)

Mitt Romney to Fundraise With John McCain

March 27, 2008 11:27 AM

ABC News' Bret Hovell reports: Sen. John McCain will be joined on the campaign trail by a sometimes contentious former rival Thursday for a fundraising swing through the mountain west.

Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, the onetime Republican presidential candidate, will join McCain to raise money in Salt Lake City and Denver.

Romney will meet McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee, in Utah, and travel with him aboard his campaign plane to Denver.

The race between Romney and McCain was heated throughout the primary process, as the two battled for the Republican nomination. Romney dropped out of the race at the beginning of February, two days after the Super Tuesday primary, in which McCain pulled ahead of the field. Romney endorsed McCain one week later, on Valentine’s Day.

"Governor Romney is a very important leader in the Republican party," said Steve Schmidt, a senior advisor to McCain’s campaign. "Sen. McCain is thrilled that he’s going to be joining him on the campaign trail today."

McCain is in the early stages of a process to pick his vice presidential nominee. Romney, with his passionate supporters and deep pockets, is widely believed to be under consideration for that role.

March 27, 2008 in McCain, John, Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (28) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Camp Laments

February 21, 2008 10:18 AM

ABC News' John Berman Reports: The remnants of the Romney campaign are shaking their heads this morning.

For months they were whispering about a New York Times investigation into John McCain's ties to a certain lobbyist.

They would poke and prod reporters to see if they had heard anything new about when and if the New York Times would publish the story.

On Thursday, while no one would allow their name to be published, several former advisers lamented the timing of the story, one suggesting, "If this piece had run before New Hampshire, McCain would have lost. If it had run before Florida, he would have lost."

WATCH VIDEO OF MCCAIN REFUTING THE NEW YORK TIMES REPORT HERE AND WATCH GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS BREAK DOWN THE POTENTIAL FALLOUT FROM THIS STORY HERE.

At times, while he was still a candidate, Mitt Romney himself seemed to be nudging reporters to focus on the issue of lobbyists.

In South Carolina, he made the spurious claim that "I don't have lobbyists running my campaign. . . I don't have lobbyists that are tied to my (campaign)."

Glen Johnson from the Associated Press challenged Romney on this claim, pointing out the presence of several lobbyists in Romney's inner circle. Whatever the merits of that argument, the new revelations about John McCain might put Romney's statements in a different light.

The former Massachusetts governor has now endorsed McCain, and asked his delegates to back the Arizona Senator. Most of Romney's staff has dispersed, but when reached they made clear there would be no statement from Romney or the Romney team about the New York Times piece...just a lot of wondering about what might have been.

Get all the latest from the 2008 campaign trail -- the ups, downs, vote counts and controversy -- in The Note each morning.

February 21, 2008 in McCain, John, Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (22) | TrackBack (0)

Mitt Romney Endorses John McCain

February 14, 2008 1:32 PM

ABC News' George Stephanopoulos and John Berman Report: Former Gov. Mitt Romney, R-Mass., today endorsed his former Republican rival Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz.  The endorsement took place this afternoon at Romney for President headquarters in Boston.

Romney asked his delegates to throw their support to McCain, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee.

"Even when the contest was close and our disagreements were debated, the caliber of the man was apparent," Romney said, standing with McCain for the announcement at his now-defunct campaign's headquarters in Boston. "As a party, we come together."

Accepting Romney's endorsement, McCain said despite a "hard campaign" now "we move forward together for the good of our party and the nation."

Once bitter rivals locked in an acrimonious Republican nomination fight, Romney abandoned his 2008 bid following a poor showing in the Super Tuesday contests this month. Romney had won the support of many in the conservative wing of the party, but failed to overtake McCain in either delegates or the number of state wins.

The former governor made his decision to endorse today in the interest of helping McCain gain the 1,191 delegates he needs to secure the party nomination and unite the party for the general election against the Democrats in November.

Romney campaign manager Beth Myers notified McCain campaign manager Rick Davis in a telephone call today of Romney's decision, and they immediately made arrangements for an announcement in Boston this afternoon since McCain was campaigning in Rhode Island today.

After McCain's townhall meeting near Providence this afternoon, the campaign is flying to Boston for the endorsement.

Romney and McCain will meet today before they both announce the formal endorsement at a press conference.

ABC News' Ron Claiborne and Bret Hovell contributed reporting.

February 14, 2008 in McCain, John, Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (67) | TrackBack (0)

Huckabee: "I Still Believe in the Impossible"

February 08, 2008 12:33 PM

ABC News' Kevin Chupka Reports: Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee needs a lot of things to fall his way and plenty to go wrong for Republican front runner, Sen. John McCain, but as Huckabee said this morning, "I still believe in the impossible."

In his first campaign rally since the departure of former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney from the Republican race, Huckabee told an audience of about 1,100 at Mid-America Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas, "an election is about a choice not a coronation, and ladies and gentlemen I'm gonna make it clear, conservatives in the Republican party ought to have a choice for somebody who is unapologetically, one hundred percent, without any flinching at all, pro-life, pro-traditional marriage, and pro-fair tax and pro-secure the borders."

In a press conference following the rally, Huckabee was asked just how he thinks he can win the nomination with McCain, R-Ariz., so far ahead.

"Let's say we get to the convention and Romney releases his delegates. They can come towards me," Huckabee replied. "There's also a lot of factors that can happen. Any given day, a candidate can say one word and it gets YouTubed and his campaign's done."

While it may seem like he is hoping for lighting to strike the same spot multiple times for his campaign to succeed in Minneapolis this summer but then again, this is the man for whom impossible may not apply.

February 8, 2008 in Huckabee, Mike, McCain, John, Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (20) | TrackBack (0)

Senate Leader Writes Off Huckabee, Paul

February 07, 2008 4:12 PM

ABC News' Z. Byron Wolf Reports: The Presidential race came up on Capitol Hill for the second time in two days after former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney withdrew from the race for the Republican nomination.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., did not use the "E" (for endorsement) word today, but he essentially wrote off the Presidential campaigns of Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul when asked about the Mitt Romney withdrawing from the race.

"It's clear the Republican nomination is over," said McConnell. He went on to say there is "widespread pride" on Capitol Hill for Senator John McCain, who McConnell said, "is certainly going to be the nominee."

McCain has in the past fashioned himself as a maverick and can be prickly when he does not agree with someone (and often does not agree with his fellow Republicans on policy).

But today, McConnell said, "I think in the Republican conference we are particularly proud of Senator McCain and his accomplishment."

He also said he looks forward to correcting the adage that Senators can't be elected President.

Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., jokingly took credit for Mitt Romney dropping out of the race.

"He met me in Salt Lake last Saturday," Reid said of Romney. Both Reid, who is a Democrat and the Senate Majority Leader and Romney, a Republican and the former Massachusetts governor are Mormon. "We hadn't met before then. That was the beginning of the end for him," Reid said.

February 7, 2008 in Huckabee, Mike, McCain, John, Paul, Ron, Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (9) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Not Dead Yet

February 06, 2008 2:06 PM

ABC News' John Berman, Ursula Fahy and Matt Stuart Report: Mitt Romney, R-Mass., is still running for president. With words that did not thunder with confidence, Romney's spokesman told reporters, "The governor's statement from last night is still operative.  He is in this race until the convention."

Romney met with advisers for several hours in his Boston campaign office Wednesday morning.

Spokesman Eric Fehrnstrom said, "John McCain had a good night. That doesn't mean Mitt Romney had a bad night."

Just after 1pm, Romney could be seen through his office window addressing a gathering inside.  One aide called it "a pep talk to staff."

Romney will speak at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington, D.C. on Thursday before returning to the campaign trail.

Some spin from advisers includes: "McCain is getting base resistance. In some states, Huck helped us by taking McCain votes."

Another comment: "We won one less state than McCain... and we have a lot more money." (This aide might have been off by a state or two)

Meanwhile, a UPS postal carrier delivered several boxes labeled as extra-large, navy-blue, "Romney for President" sweatshirts.

February 6, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (32) | TrackBack (0)

McCain Weakness Among Conservatives Shows in Arizona

February 06, 2008 12:25 AM

ABC's Ron Claiborne and Gary Langer report: Sen. John McCain's narrow win in his home state of Arizona shows just how deep his problems run with conservative voters during this Republican primary battle.
                                    
In early returns, McCain was getting just under 50 percent of the vote. In 2004 during his most recent Senate re-election, McCain got 77 per cent of the vote in a state he has represented since 1987.

ABC News analysis found that in Tuesday's primary about two-thirds of Arizona Republican voters described themselves as conservatives. Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney beat McCain among those voters 47 to 36 percent.

It is also possible the immigration issue may have hurt Arizona's senior senator. Anti-immigrant sentiment is strong among many white Arizonans. Romney often criticized McCain in debates for his more moderate immigration stance.

Still, despite the narrow margin, statewide party rules declare that the winner of the popular vote in Arizona takes all of the delegates. And so McCain has earned all 53 of the state's delegates.

Even with his win in California, McCain demonstrated continued weakness among conservatives there as well.

According to exit oplls, self-described conservatives voted 46 to 30 percent for Romney over McCain in California, the same share of conservatives for McCain as he won nationally.

McCain was stronger among moderates -- winning them in California by 2-1 over Romney, 48 to 24 percent, similar to the national picture where McCain won moderates by 52-24 percent.

But he is not winning conservatives, in many ways the core of the Republican Party -- they account for more than six in 10 Republican voters nationally and in California alike.

February 6, 2008 in McCain, John, Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (11) | TrackBack (0)

McCain Is Victorious in Home State, But Not By Much

February 06, 2008 12:13 AM

ABC News' Ron Claiborne Reports: The primary election in his own home state shows just how deep Sen. John McCain's problems are with conservative voters.
                                    
In early returns, McCain was getting just under 50 percent of the vote. With 56 percent of the GOP ballots counted, McCain led former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney 48-33 percent.

In his last re-election bid, in 2004, McCain got 77 percent of the vote.

ABC News analysis found that about two-thirds of Arizona Republican voters were conservatives and Romney beat McCain among that voter demographic 47-36 percent.

It's also possible the immigration issue could be to blame. Anti-immigrant sentiment is strong among many white Arizonans.

Still, as a winner-take-all state, McCain garnered all 53 of the state's delegates.

February 6, 2008 in McCain, John, Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

Romney: McCain Is Another Bob Dole

February 05, 2008 11:36 AM

ABC News' Bret Hovell and Teddy Davis Report: Republican Mitt Romney responded Tuesday to a pro-McCain letter written by Bob Dole by saying on "Fox and Friends" that the former Senate Majority Leader and World War II veteran is "probably the last person" he would want to write a letter on his behalf.

McCain responded by demanding that Romney apologize to Dole.

Watch the VIDEO HERE.

Speaking to reporters on the back of his campaign plane in Newark, N.J., McCain said, "I think Gov. Romney should apologize to Bob Dole for his statement. . . this is no way to end up this campaign by attacking a genuine American war hero."

Since talking about Dole on "Fox and Friends," Romney is softening his words.

On Laura Ingraham's radio show, Romney called Dole "an American hero" and a "terrific guy," while acknowledging that he would like to have every endorsement. But the former Massachusetts governor is sticking to his underlying argument that McCain, like Dole, is a flawed candidate despite being "the anointed choice" and the "next in line."

Romney contends that he would make a better nominee than his older rival because as a former governor and business consultant he can position the G.O.P. as the party seeking change in Washington.

For months, one of the whispers you would hear from Romney advisers is that McCain "is turning into Bob Dole."

And it has nothing to do with being "annointed" or being the person who "waited the longest." They are calling him old, trying to make the Republican nomination fight a generational-type battle.

On Monday, Dole wrote conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh in an effort to quell conservative complaints about McCain being the Republican nominee.

"Rush," Dole wrote, "I was the Republican Leader from January 1985 until I left the Senate voluntarily in June 1996. I worked closely with Senator McCain when he came to the Senate in 1987 until I departed. I cannot recall a single instance when he did not support the Party on critical votes."

February 5, 2008 in McCain, John, Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (48) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Ties One On

February 04, 2008 9:37 AM

ABC New' John Berman, Ursula Fahy and Matt Stuart Report:  Trying to make the case that he is the one true Republican in the race, Mitt Romney's tie says it all:  it has elephants on it.  In Nashville, TN, Romney claimed this morning that "conservative are coming together" and saying they "don't want John McCain."

Tapping into the conservative backlash against John McCain is part of the Romney teams strategy to steal McCain momentum on Super Tuesday.  Romney regularly points to support on talk radio and conservative journals.  And new supporter Rick Santorum criticized the elected officials he said were, "lining up like lemmings" behind McCain.  Santorum tried to rally the grassroots, shouting "let's show them who is in charge of this party."

The Romney team is also hoping to pick up delegates in caucus and convention states.  They expect a strong showing in Colorado, West Virginia, Minnesota and Montana.

Finally, Romney is making a huge bet on California.  With some polls showing him actually leading there, Romney is embarking on a last-minute cross-country flight to hold a rally in Long Beach, CA Monday night.  Romney says, "If I win California, that means you're gonna have a conservative in the White House."

In the wake of the Patriots Superbowl defeat, Romney has also incorporated some sports metaphors into his rhetoric. He claims Washington has repeatedly "whiffed" in it's efforts for forge reform.  He also accused Washington leaders of "fiddling and diddling," a term used by longtime Boston Celtics announcer Johnny Most.

February 4, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (3) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Camp Raises McCain 'Temperament'

February 03, 2008 6:19 PM

ABC News' Teddy Davis Reports: Mitt Romney's campaign is raising Sen. John McCain's "temperament" in a robo call recorded by one of the former Massachusetts governor's supporters, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum. The call is going out to voters in Alaska, California, Colorado and a few other Feb 5 states.

"As a conservative I don’t agree with McCain on many issues and I don’t think he has the temperament and leadership ability to move the country in the right direction," Santorum says in the call.

Some political observers see Santorum's reference to "temperament" as a polite way to raise McCain's temper, an issue that has been raised about the Arizona senator and former prisoner of war for years.

Among the issues raised by Santorum in the call are taxes, immigration, and same-sex marriage.

McCain allies note that Santorum did not raise the Arizona senator's "temperament" in 2006 when McCain stumped on behalf of Santorum's unsuccessful re-election bid.

Here is a script:

SANTORUM: "Hello, this is Senator Rick Santorum calling to let you know I am supporting Mitt Romney and urging you to support him next Tuesday. "

SANTORUM: "As Republican leader in the U.S. Senate, I worked hard to stop the Democrats and help pass a conservative agenda. A few senators like John McCain stood in our way. John McCain voted against the president’s tax cuts, worked with Ted Kennedy to pass what many people call amnesty for illegal aliens and he even opposes the marriage amendment that says that marriage is between man and woman. "

SANTORUM: "As a conservative I don’t agree with McCain on many issues and I don’t think he has the temperament and leadership ability to move the country in the right direction. Please join me and other conservatives in voting for Mitt Romney this Tuesday."

February 3, 2008 in McCain, John, Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

Mitt Romney In Talks of Returning to CA

February 03, 2008 2:36 PM

ABC News' John Berman reports: Mitt Romney is considering a dramatic cross-country return to California in an effort to pick-up delegates on Super Tuesday. 

With some polls showing him neck and neck with John McCain in California, the campaign is considering a night-time rally Monday night, before returning to West Virginia on Tuesday morning.

The plans are not set in stone, but the fact they are considering it shows where their heads are.

Also, Mitt Romney exchanged e-mails with Patriots quarterback Tom Brady yesterday to wish him luck in the Superbowl.

February 3, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

"Of Course" Romney Will Keep His Checkbook Open

February 03, 2008 1:47 PM

ABC News’ Mary Bruce reports: Former Gov. Mitt Romney, R-Mass., said today that he is prepared to continue writing personal checks to keep his 2008 campaign afloat past Super Tuesday.

"Of course," Romney told ABC News' George Stephanopoulos in a "This Week" interview. "You know, I recognize that I'm not as well known as Sen. McCain or Mayor Giuliani, or, for that matter, Fred Thompson.  I got into this race recognizing that I had to build my name recognition.  Theirs was already there," he said.

Romney has spent roughly $35 million of his personal fortune on his campaign so far. He went on to note that "I'm also proud of the fact that we've raised more money than any other Republican in this race.  We've raised it from more people than any other Republican in this race, and that makes me proud.  We got a lot of support across the country.  But I of course am going to contribute to the very campaign I'm asking other people to contribute to."

February 3, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

Romney to Downsize Post-Super Tuesday?

February 03, 2008 12:26 AM

ABC News' Matt Stuart Reports: Mitt Romney suggested Saturday that he might reduce his staff after Super Tuesday, saying he has "a much larger staff" than may be required "as you go on to these subsequent primaries."

The former Massachusetts governor soon backtracked, insisting, "We don't have any plans to change our staff size."

The conflicting statements came as Romney was traveling with the press corps from Salt Lake City, Utah, where he attended the funeral of Gordon Hinckley, the president of the Mormon Church.

En-route to Minneapolis, Minnesota, Romney approached the back of the plane for an impromptu talk with reporters.

When asked about his post-Tuesday plans, Romney first joked, "I hope to celebrate," before noting a speech he had on Thursday before the Conservative Political Action Committee and a budget meeting with campaign manager Beth Myers on Wednesday.

WATCH ABC NEWS LIVE COVERAGE OF SUPER TUESDAY BEGINNING AT 8 PM EASTERN ON YOUR ABC STATION

Speaking about the meeting, Romney said, "Back in Boston and we have a big staff. . . that's a much larger staff than you have as you go on to these subsequent primaries."

He then added, "So who are the people needed, where are we needed? What's the campaign budget gonna look like? All those things."

Romney was later asked about his comments while speaking with reporters again upon landing in Minneapolis, at which point he claimed that he and his campaign "just haven't discussed" staff size after Tuesday's delegate rich Super Tuesday contests.

The latest ABC News/Washington Post poll released Sunday shows Romney trailing a surging Senator John McCain, R-Ariz., 2-1 nationally.

February 3, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (44) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Claims Boost in Internet Fundraising

February 02, 2008 6:42 PM

ABC News' Matt Stuart reports: Republican hopeful Mitt Romney claimed Saturday that Internet donations to his campaign have been on the rise.

Speaking with reporters, Romney said that they had collected $374,000 in online donations in one day. "My guess is that a week ago we might've collected $50,000 in a day," Romney said.

Romney again stated that he believed the race will continue after Tuesday, saying, "I don't think somebody's gonna walk away with the, the needed numbers." Romney later reiterated, "I don't think it's gonna be over as of Tuesday night. I wish it were over in my favor. Hope it's not over against me."

However, Romney also acknowledged that while "all the politicians in this race have to be optimistic" he also noted that "we all recognize...there's just an itty bitty chance we might not win."

Earlier today, Romney attended the funeral of the former president of the Mormon Church, Gordon Hinckley, but sought to avoid any political questions about the event. "This was a chance for me to think about this man I admired a great deal," Romney said.

Asked if he was sleeping all right, given the approaching Super Tuesday when 21 Republican contests are held, Romney said only that "not a guy that gets all wound up and high stressed over stuff."

Fresh off a trip to Montana to campaign for his dad, second son Matt said, "We're doing great there. I think you're gonna win."

Romney heads to Minnesota tonight before heading on to Illionois, Missouri and Tennessee on Sunday.

February 2, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Optimistic Romney's Realism

February 01, 2008 5:59 PM

ABC News' John Berman, Ursula Fahy, Matt Stuart: Mitt Romney is usually an optimistic guy. But in Denver, Colorado, on Friday the former Massachusetts governor suggested he would look at the results from the voting on Super Tuesday before deciding whether to move on. 

When asked by ABC News if there was a minimum bar he would need to reach in order to stay in the race, he said, "There may be, I just don't know what it is." 

Romney noted he was hoping to do well and was ahead in some states, but that he "couldn't possibly forecast at this stage what kind of numbers I'll have coming out of Tuesday."

It was the most circumspect Romney has been about his chances to date. The relentless optimist sounded a bit tentative saying only "at this stage, I expect to keep battling."

He was also asked about the enormous personal donation he has made to his campaign: $35 million through December 31st, 2007.

Romney said simply, "You have to play the hand you are dealt."

February 1, 2008 in Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (80) | TrackBack (0)

Romney's Special Gift

February 01, 2008 1:16 PM

ABC News' John Berman, Ursula Fahy and Matt Stuart Report: Prior to lifting-off from San Diego, Mitt Romney came to the back of his campaign plane to give a special gift to reporter Glen Johnson.  You will remember that Johnson, a true journalist, confronted Romney in South Carolina over Romney's claim that he did not have lobbyists on his campaign staff.  Johnson pointed out that Ron Kaufman, a registered lobbyist, is a frequent travel companion of Romney during the campaign.  Johnson asked Romney at the time if Kaufman was just a "potted plant."

Well, today, Romney approached Johnson, saying that he had "tough, tough decisions" to make this morning.  Then holding up a potted plant in one hand and with his other arm around Ron Kaufman, he asked, "is it this, or this?"

Check out an AP image of the potted plant HERE.

After a moment of consideration, Romney said, "you get him," meaning Kaufman.

Romney also remarked how nice the plane was this morning.  One reporter muttered under his breath, "you always get more leg-room when a campaign is going under."

February 1, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

Huckabee Lashes Out at Romney in Oklahoma

February 01, 2008 12:11 PM

ABC News' Kevin Chupka Reports: Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee viciously attacked the record of his presidential Republican rival Mitt Romney in Oklahoma City on Friday, calling Romney's actions "absurd" and accusing him of being a liar. 

At a press conference Friday morning, Huckabee was asked to clarify comments he made on a cable news morning show the previous day in which he claimed that Romney had yet to reach "political puberty."

"I meant that on a number of issues, he had not yet discovered who he was on the second amendment – he supported Brady, he supported an assault weapon ban," Huckabee said.

He added that "[Romney] was very pro-choice, supported strong positions for same sex relationships, [and] said on television that he would do more for the gay/lesbian agenda than Ted Kennedy."

"That's pretty bold," Huckabee concluded, also mentioning how Romney had said he and his dad had marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. "when he hadn't."

He continued to bash Romney's record even further: "I just think you can't have a change of opinion on fundamental issues over and over and wait until you're running for President to do it," he said. "To say that you've never thought about the origins of human life until you were nearly 60 years old, I find that hard to believe even for someone who hasn't run for office before, but certainly for somebody who had."

These are by far the most virulent remarks Huckabee has made aimed at the former Massachusetts governor since his wild and wacky "I'm not going negative" press conference in Des Moines, Iowa on New Year's Eve.

Even when asked about Senator John McCain, R-Ariz., and the differences between himself and the McCain, Huckabee couldn't resist one more jab at Romney.

"Senator McCain -- I don't consider him a liberal. I think Mitt Romney calls him that, that's absurd," he said.

Huckabee continues his frenetic swing through the southern Super Tuesday states Friday with stops in Tulsa, Oklahoma; Bentonville, Arkansas; and Springfield, Missouri.

February 1, 2008 in Huckabee, Mike, Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (11) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Tones Down Attack As Florida Votes

January 29, 2008 12:48 PM

ABC News' Matt Stuart reports: Former Massachuttes Governor Mitt Romney watered down his on-going attacks toward Senator John McCain by not directly attacking, but simply implying just as Florida Republicans head to the polls.

Speaking to supporters in Tampa, FL, Romney criticized the Arizona Senator on the economy, saying "One of the candidates out there running for President said that the economy is not his strong suit.  Well, it’s my strong suit."

The Romney-McCain battle has heated up this week as both men campaigned hard this week in Florida. Romney has frequently played up his business background on the stump, using it as a base for why he would be best suited to fix the economy.

"I think it's helpful to have a President of the United States who actually has been in the real economy if he's gonna try and fix the real economy," Romney said.

Romney also deviated from his standard stump and made a few comments about his democratic opponents, Former Senator John Edwards. Where Romney usually criticizes Edwards claim that there are "Two America's," Romney said today, "I listen to John Edwards, who I don't think we'll have to listen to too much longer."

With hours left for Floridians to vote, Romney ended with his final plea, "Hey you guys, get out there and vote a few times. Will ya? Get the job done today? Make some calls. Get some friends out there.  Let's make this a big win."

January 29, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Praises LDS Leader, Bashes McCain

January 28, 2008 7:55 AM

ABC News' John Berman, Matt Stuart and Ursula Fahy Report: Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney held an early morning news conference at a West Palm Beach gas station for two very different purposes: one was to mourn the loss of Gordon Hinckley, the president of the Church of Jesus Chris of Latter Day Saints who died yesterday at the age of 97; the second was to bash G.O.P. rival John McCain.

On Hinckley who led the Church through 12 years of global expansion, Romney said "we will all miss him as a family.  We respect him as a man of great character."

Romney, a Mormon, praised Hinckley as a man of "humility and gentleness."

Romney said he didn't have a personal relationship with Hinckley, but did discuss meeting with him when he was thinking of running for President.

Hinckley apparently told him -- win or lose -- "it would be a great experience".

Romney said he hopes to attend his funeral.

Changing gears after the somber reminiscence about a man of faith,  Romney went after John McCain in a new rhetorical flourish  saying that McCain is known for just 3 pieces of legislation:  McCain-Feingold (which regulated campaign finance); McCain-Kennedy (which Romney calls an amnesty bill); and McCain-Lieberman (which seeks to set caps on carbon emissions).  Referencing McCain's record,  Romney said, "if you want a liberal Democratic course as president, you can vote for him."

Romney claimed that the McCain-Lieberman energy plan would cost Floridians an extra thousand dollars a year.

He said the plan illustrated a "fundamental lack of understanding of the economy," on the part of John McCain.

When asked if his barbs about McCain were getting nasty, Romney said it was appropriate to talk about issues but that, "personal attacks are out of bounds." Though he added with a bid of forboding, "I'm the primary at least."

January 28, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (11) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Demands McCain Apologize For Iraq Claims

January 26, 2008 2:21 PM

ABC News' John Berman, Bret Hovell, Ursula Fahy and Matt Stuart Report: Campaigning in Florida Saturday, former Gov. Mitt Romney demanded that Sen. John McCain apologize for claiming Romney had proposed a "date for withdrawal" from Iraq.

"Governor Romney wanted to set a date for withdrawal similar to what the democrats are seeking which would have led to a victory by Al Qaeda in my view," McCain said earlier today at a campaign event in Ft. Myers, Fl.

When asked about McCain's claim while speaking with reporters in Lutz, Fl., Romney said McCain was being "dishonest."

"To say that I have a specific date is simply wrong and is dishonest and he should apologize," Romney argued.

"That is not the case, I’ve never said that," Romney said emphatically, arguing McCain was "trying desperately to change the topic from the economy and trying to get back to Iraq. But to say something that’s not accurate is simply wrong and he knows better."

During an appearance on Good Morning America on April 3, 2007, Romney did express support for private benchmarks and time tables.

When asked by ABC News' Robin Roberts on "GMA" if he believes there should be a timetable for withdrawing U.S. troops from Iraq, Romney replied, "Well, there's no question that the president and Prime Minister al Maliki have to have a series of timetables and milestones that they speak about, but those shouldn't be for public pronouncement."

Romney has also previously stated he expected a move to a support role in Iraq in 2008. At an event in New Hampshire in September, Romney said,  "I think you're going to find sometime in '08 that by virtue of success of the surge militarily, we'll be able to move to the support role."

January 26, 2008 in Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (10) | TrackBack (0)

Best Introduction of Spouse ... Ever

January 26, 2008 11:03 AM

ABC News' John Berman, Ursula Fahy and Matt Stuart Report: At a campaign event in Largo, Florida Saturday, former Gov. Mitt Romney was speaking to a sedate, half-full room of supporters.

But everyone's ears perked up, including those of a few reporters when he introduced his wife, Ann, as the person who, "is helping me relieve stress," when he is on the road.

January 26, 2008 in Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (9) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Barks Back at McCain

January 25, 2008 4:37 PM

ABC News' Matt Stuart Reports: Republican hopeful former Gov. Mitt Romney pushed back on comments by Sen. John McCain Friday that Romney had the "experience and resume as a manager" but not the experience of a leader.

Speaking in Pensacola just four days before the Florida primary, Romney claimed that McCain was "engaging in Washington talk" rather than McCain's signature "straight talk."

"Washington talk says that somehow because you've been in Washington and you've been on a committee that you somehow, somehow know about how the jobs of this country are created."

Romney's comments were clearly an attempt to focus on the issue of the economy, and narrow the Florida race as one between McCain and himself.

Boasting of his performance in last night's debate, Romney claimed that while polls showed him and McCain tied in the state, "my guess is that after last night we're slightly in the lead."

Romney claimed he liked that during the debate, "the other candidates are increasingly talking about the issues that you want to have talked about, and they revolve around our economy." Of the several hundred people gathered in the parking lot, there was a lone "woohoo" to Romney's claim.

Romney then attacked McCain, arguing that he wasn't prepared to run the troubled economy.

Literally taking a page from his own anti-McCain press releases, branded "Straight Talk Detour," Romney said "I think he's detoured from what was some straight talk-I've got a couple of quotes here," pulling out a piece of paper and reading, "[McCain] says, 'I'm going to be honest. I know a lot less about economics than I do about military and foreign policies.  I still need to be educated.'"

"That was in November of '05 with the Wall Street Journal," Romney claimed.

Later, Romney tried, not necessarily successfully, to tie himself to small business and the economy while painting McCain as a Washington insider connected to lobbyists.  "...someone who's been on Main Street knows a lot more about the jobs and the economy of this nation than someone who's spent his time in K Street and in Washington," Romney claimed, referencing the alphabet soup street in Washington where many lobbyists have their offices.

Romney frequently touts his work in "small business that became big business," although he's referencing his work in consulting rather than a corner store.

While McCain might have been working in Washington the last 25 years, Romney has several lobbyists working in the senior levels of his campaign.

As Romney was shaking hands after the event, there was a small sign that his Mormon faith might be a plus in the panhandle as it was in Nevada. Two young girls began screaming for him after he finished speaking, chasing him down the ropeline. When a campaign aide asked why they liked Romney, one of the girls respond, "because he's Mormon."

ABC News' Bret Hovell contributed to this report.

January 25, 2008 in McCain, John, Romney, Mitt, Vote 2008: Republicans | Permalink | User Comments (9) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Addresses Latin Builders in Miami

January 25, 2008 10:22 AM

ABC News' Matt Stuart Reports: Republican hopeful Mitt Romney kept largely to his resume as a consultant turned venture capitalist in his address to the Latin Builders Association in Miami on Friday.

Romney - who was introduced by former Republican party chairman Al Cardenas as the "ultimate champion" for the economy - said that it took "a degree of chutzpah" to become a venture capitalist.

The former governor of Massachusetts explained the process as "go[ing] to someone and say 'give me your money and I will invest it for you and I'll give you back 80 percent of the profit I make and I'm gonna keep 20 percent of the profit I make, I'm gonna charge you a 2 percent fee for taking your money and by the way if I lose your money, too bad, I don't share in the downside, I only share in the upside.'

Romney diverted from the usual, tailoring his speech for the Latin Builders crowd. The Michigander turned Bay stater made a point to talk about first coming to Miami on business.

"What struck me as I came to Miami was an extraordinarily vibrant, beautiful city," he said.

Romney also pointed out that he was not always successful in his investing. "I hear people now and then say not every business that you invested in or managed was successful," Romney said. "It's like, yeah, of course, have you ever been in business before? Do you understand how business works?"

Moving on to the economy, Romney discussed his economic stimulus plan and later spoke at length about layoffs and the effect on the employer.

"I've had settings where I've had to lay people off. It's an awful feeling. No one likes laying someone off," Romney commented.

Continuing, he said, "Someone who thinks that you're a bad person if you lay someone off doesn't understand. You feel bad. Its probably the hardest thing I've done in business."

January 25, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Raises Expectations in Pre-Debate Rally

January 24, 2008 8:19 PM

ABC News' Matt Stuart and John Berman Report: Former Gov. Mitt Romney, R-Mass., raised expectations for tonight's Republican debate, saying, "We are going to win Florida."

Speaking to a crowd of about 150 people at a pre-debate rally at Bogart's Bar and Grille in Boca Raton, FL, Romney claimed that he would be the focal point of tonight's debate.

"Tonight, I predict that most of the guns will be aimed at me," Romney said. "I predict they're gonna be shooting shots one after the other and they're gonna miss, but they're gonna shoot time and time again."

Romney continued, "If they’re shooting at me, that means I’m the guy they're worried about, and for good reason, (cheers) and for good reason, because we are going to win Florida!"

Romney said he'd use the "Muhammad Ali strategy", adding, "Remember the rope-a-dope strategy?  Go ahead and just hit, hit, hit and I’ll just keep on taking, taking, taking, and the more they hit me, the more I’m able to talk and describe my vision for the future."

Romney took a few swings at Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., saying, "The only way it is going to change is by sending someone there who hasn't lived the last 25 years there." Romney later stated that he could "talk about optimism and contrast my optimism with inside the Beltway pessimism."

Romney was the center of many attacks at the last Republican debate just before the New Hampshire primary.

January 24, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (6) | TrackBack (0)

Romney to Benefit from Thompson's Departure?

January 23, 2008 5:37 PM

ABC News' Matt Stuart Reports: Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney said Wednesday that Sen. Fred Thompson’s departure from the race benefits his own bid for the Republican presidential nomination.

While speaking with reporters in Tampa, Fla., Romney said that “in some respects his departure from the campaign I think inures to my benefit,” arguing that both he and Thompson speak to social…economic…and foreign policy or national defense conservatives.”

He also said of Thompson’s departure that he would “miss Sen. Thompson's humor at our debates,” and called him a “delightful character.”

Romney added, "We have to be distinct from Democrats to beat a Democrat," a line Romney has used previously to hit Mayor Giuliani for his more liberal social views.  Romney himself was pro-choice until a few years ago when he became pro-life.

Romney was later asked about his new Spanish-language television ad voiced by his son Craig, who became fluent working as a missionary for the Mormon church in Chile.  Romney frequently says on the stump that immigrants need to learn English because “in order to be successful in America, you have to learn the language of Americans,” but claims he issued the ad to make “contact with every person I can in this country regardless, regardless of the language they speak to encourage them to support my campaign.”

Romney added further that he would “also tell those who speak other languages, 'learn English,'” although he does not say that in the ad, nor has he said as much while stumping in Florida this week.

Romney has said he is “uniquely” qualified to handle the recent economic crisis, but when asked if Sen. McCain had the experience to handle the economy, Romney said that, “You’d have to ask him that,” and went on to criticize McCain for voting against the Bush tax cuts.

Finally, with both members of Huckabee and Giuliani’s staff foregoing pay to conserve money, Romney claimed that a recent $5 million dollar fundraiser was “fueling a good part of our campaign now,” although only $1.5 million of that was designated for the primary.  Romney has also given $17.5 of his estimated $250 million personal wealth to his own campaign through the month of September. 

Romney joked the only change he’d make to his campaign finances was that campaign spokesman Kevin Madden, “shouldn't get paid as much as he gets paid, but other than that…" he trailed off.

Madden, kneeling next to Romney to duck below the cameras and holding multiple digital recorders, pleaded "I'm on my knees here Governor.”

January 23, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

Blunt Bows Out of Missouri Guv's Race

January 22, 2008 6:34 PM

ABC News' Teddy Davis and Talal Al-Khatib Report: Matt Blunt, Missouri's Republican governor and the son of House Republican Whip Roy Blunt, announced Tuesday that he will not seek a second term.

Blunt sought to frame his decision as being motivated by a desire to spend more time with his family and a sense that he had accomplished all of his goals. But Blunt's tenure has been marred by scandal, including allegations that his office improperly handled its e-mail messages.

Despite Blunt having a war chest totaling $4 million at the end of the year, the Democratic Governors Association saw the Missouri governor's office as its top target in 2008.

"Missouri represents the best pick-up opportunity for Democrats. It still is," said Brian Namey, a spokesman for the Democratic Governors Association. Democratic Attorney General Jay Nixon, who was set to be Blunt's main rival in the 2008 election, has $1.7 million in cash on hand. Nixon is running unopposed for the Democratic nomination for governor.

Currently, there are no big-name Republicans in the gubernatorial race. The filing deadline is in March, and the primary is set for August.

With Blunt out, the Republican names being floated by political handicappers include state treasurer Sarah Steelman, Rep. Kenny Hulshof, Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder, and former Sen. Jim Talent.

Blunt is a top backer of Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney and serves as one of his national co-chairs.

January 22, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (1) | TrackBack (0)

Romney on Economy: "We’re All a Little Nervous"

January 22, 2008 10:44 AM

ABC News' Matt Stuart Reports: Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney jumped on the news of this morning's fall in the stock market, saying "we're all a little nervous," hoping to underline his own experience working in business.

Speaking to the Republican Jewish Coalition in Boca Raton, Florida on Tuesday, Romney claimed that in his work "in the consulting business for 10 years...one of the great opportunities in life was to see things that everybody was convinced would never come back, it's only when they're convinced it's going down forever, then is the opportunity to become an investor and see things turn around," he added.

Romney frequently cites his experience in business on the stump, arguing it makes him uniquely qualified to handle the economy. 

He remained optimistic in the face of the dour situation saying, "right now you're seeing probably the beginning of that kind of concern and that means there will be opportunity for our economic sector to come back."

The former governor of Massachusetts also joked about previously investing in a company called Sun Capital.

"My money's now in a blind trust, I hope I still have it at Sun Capital and I hope that as of tonight, Sun Capital still has it too. We're all a little nervous about that," Romney said.

Later, Romney cracked that "it's interesting that right now the economy is on people's minds, I think that's in part because of what's happening in the stock market. I almost fear for this meeting to be over. Maybe I should just stay here and talk all day."

Even as he joked about the crisis, Romney recognized its seriousness and said,  "My guess is that our stock market is hitting the circuit breakers or will relatively soon and there’s a great deal of nervousness about what’s happening in the stock market."

January 22, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (8) | TrackBack (0)

Romney Keeps His Message Focused on the Economy

January 21, 2008 7:17 PM

ABC News' Matt Stuart Reports: Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney tried to clarify comments made Monday about the importance of the economy and the war in the Middle East.

At a campaign stop in Orlando, Romney claimed that "right now the No.1 problem people are talking about as I go across the country is our economy."

Speaking with reporters in Titusville, FL, however, Romney seemed to argue that while voters were talking more about the economy, "radical violent jihad" remained the greatest threat to the United States. "I think that the number one challenge that faces America and the world is the threat of radical violent jihad and continue to believe that’s the greatest threat that we face."

Romney was also asked about regrets he's had on the campaign trail so far. "The states I'd didn't do as well in I'd probably put less in," Romney said, "The states I was close in I'd put in more in all right."

Asked about a national catastrophe fund, Romney said only that it "makes sense" to him but that he hasn’t "looked at a specific proposal." Romney noted that "you are not going to have very low risk homeowners, or low-risk states, subsidizing high-risk homeowners or high-risk states"

Finally, with wins by the New England Patriots and the New York Giants Sunday, Romney was asked if he’d make a friendly Superbowl bet with rival Mayor Giuliani. Romney said only, "We haven't done that yet. I'll have to think about that."

January 21, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (5) | TrackBack (0)

Romney on MLK: 'An Individual of Passion' Can Change a Nation

January 21, 2008 11:21 AM

ABC News' Matt Stuart: Republican candidate Mitt Romney was at Gate Petrolium in Jacksonville, FL Monday, speaking about Martin Luther King, Jr. and said that King was able to "fulfill the promise of the Declaration of Independence" and that "in some places today, it is still yet to be fulfilled.

"Sometime you think problems are huge and they're beyond the scope of anyone's ability to deal with them, but an individual of passion and courage and faith and character can help change an entire nation, as he did," Romney said.

Romney concluded trying to tie King's story to his own resume.  Romney said he wanted to pay his respects to King’s "great memory and accomplishment," adding "my areas of accomplishment are not like his, not on that level, and yet I took a very different course in my life than most people who are in office. My life was like your mayor's: I spent my life in the private sector."

January 21, 2008 in Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User Comments (12) | TrackBack (0)

Rudy Calls Out McCain and Romney on Bush Tax Cuts

January 19, 2008 7:42 PM

ABC News’ Jan Simmonds reports:  At the mega Florida retirement community, The Villages, today, Rudy Giuliani did something he has shied away from this entire campaign.  He called out his fellow Republicans John McCain and Mitt Romney, by name, for failing to support the Bush tax cuts.

“I supported the Bush tax cuts,” said Giuliani. “John McCain voted with the Democrats against the tax cuts twice.  And Mitt Romney did not clearly support the Bush tax cuts.  Now, I clearly supported the Bush tax cuts for a very simple reason -- because I had done the same thing several years earlier.  I had done the same thing in New York.  I knew it would work. I knew it would work to grow our economy.”

While not using the harshest of language, Giuliani has been vigilant in his efforts to not go after his fellow Republicans unless they went after him first.  He told ABC News' George Stephanopoulos in December that, as a rule, he does not "criticize" fellow Republicans.

"I try to follow the rule, if you attack me, or attack my record, and then I have to explain it.  And in the nature of explaining it, [if] I have to point out that your record was weaker in that area than mine, then I will do it," Giuliani said.

"But if you don’t attack me, I have no right to attack you.  I mean, there’s no point in that."

This change is a significant one, since Giuliani and his campaign now appear ready to put the gloves on and get into the fight.

Asked at a press avail following The Villages rally, Giuliani acted as if the change in rhetoric was not a big deal.

“I just pointed out where there were differences,” he said, repeating the lines he gave during the rally, adding that Romney was “equivocal in his support.”

In recent weeks, Giuliani has been an afterthought in the minds of most Americans, sitting on the sidelines while his competitors battled it out in Michigan, South Carolina and Nevada. 

But starting tomorrow, all eyes will fall upon the Sunshine State, and after being camped out in Florida since the New Hampshire primary on Jan. 8, the Giuliani campaign feels that the extra time they have devoted on the ground, combined with what they tout as their organizational strength, will pave the way for a victory on Jan. 29.

If the Giuliani strategy works, the single win in Florida would leapfrog the former New York City mayor to the top of the Republican delegate count.

January 19, 2008 in Giuliani, Rudy, McCain, John, Romney, Mitt | Permalink | User C