Perhaps the big winner last night was not even there: Gov. Rick Perry, who will apparently be announcing his intentions to seek the GOP nomination, this weekend, in Charleston. That said, for those who were on the stage, here is my take – - -
Romney: “A” - Looked presidential, stayed above the fray, and for some odd reason, did not get beat up by the others. Amazing that he got that pass, but he is better for it. He scored points with his business background, and in the way he did not take the bait on some of the jabs thrown his way.
Huntsman: “Gentleman’s C” – I personally liked his demeanor and a lot of what he said, thought he came across as reasonable, thoughtful and seasoned but he is being graded on his overall presence and performance last night which was not his crowd. Certainly can’t take away his creds on dealing with China, and he reiterated his conservative bona fides which were acceptable to a very red meat crowd up until his civil union answer. He did not get a lot of great chances and when he did get a chance he simply did NOT stand out.
Bachman: “B-”: Only due to the audience and how she handled herself in the mud-slinging with Pawlenty. If she thinks leading an effort of light bulbs is a sign of gravitas, in the word’s of comedian John Pinette, I say “nay, nay”. I do agree with others that Iowans are doing the country a disservice if they give her the win at the Ames Straw Poll this week ’cause she can’t win the presidency. I am wholly surprised no one compared her to Obama, no real record of achievement just lots of rhetoric.
Gingrich – C+, He bested expectations, and certainly made some key points on getting things done in a divided government. His testiness with Chris Wallace was a plus, but while his message is good, the messenger is flawed. He will get some unexpected support in Ames but his long-term prospects look dim.
Pawlenty: “C” – His back and forth with Bachman diminished his status to me, though he certainly laid out his record as a conservative governor, which was then challenged by his fellow Minnesotan. He has not caught fire and tomorrow’s straw poll, unfortunately could be his Waterloo in terms of credibility with donors. Good message, but no charisma perhaps?
Cain: “C-” – Did little to keep him from returning to radio. Yes, he and Romney are the “business-experienced” candidates but he had to spend far too much time clarifying prior comments, than actually scoring points with the audience.
Paul: “B” – Again, let me reiterate this is a grade on last night. The audience responded well to him, and will reward him with a strong showing in the straw poll. If there was ever any doubt that his views are out to the mainstream, he certainly clarified it last night.
Santorum: “C-” – Frankly, he should ask for a refund. Few opportunities to speak were given to him and yet, when he did get to talk, he wasted his shots. Okay, so we get it, you are The Moral candidate. The issues in 2012 are jobs, jobs, jobs.
Conclusion: Rick Perry will enter the race tomorrow, and it becomes a Romney – Perry-Bachman inthe top-tier immediately. Perry can raise money, has a national presence, and takes votes from Bachman and Pawlenty off the top, and then from Gingrich, Cain, and Santorum (if there are really any to take right now). Paul’s voters are the most committed of any and will remain so. Your comments and feedback are sought and appreciated here on The FRONT PORCH….
