Being attacked as not a pure conservative and a heartless “corporate raider” did not stop Romney from finishing first, with a big margin of victory, in the New Hampshire Republican Primary. Speaking before the crowd, Romney declared, “Tonight, we made history.” Focusing on Obama, as always, Romney said to his opponents, “In the last few days, we have seen some desperate Republicans join forces with him [Obama]. This is such a mistake for our party and for our nation. This country already has a leader who divides us with the bitter politics of envy. We must offer an alternative vision.”
Days before the Primary, his Republican opponents seemed to have united on bringing him down. They questioned his work in Bain Capital, the private investment firm he co- founded and source of his wealth, and took out of its original context his remark: “I like to be able to fire people.”
Nonetheless, Romney garnered 39.4% of the votes last Tuesday. Santorum, Gingrich, and Perry were trailing far behind. With all the money he spent, Huntsman only finished third. On the other hand, Ron Paul continued to show a strong standing, with 22.8% of the overall vote.
However, many Republican candidates are hoping to turn the tides in the upcoming South Carolina Primary. Compared to Iowa and New Hampshire, this is a larger and more conservative state. Romney’s moderate views and Mormon faith may not be appealing to the voters. Only “14% of those who voted Tuesday said being a "true conservative" was the most important thing to them.” South Carolina is comprised of a large bloc of evangelical voters, who may pose some resistance against Romney. He also does not have a home- field advantage like in New Hampshire. Moreover, his rivals are more eager on attacking him than ever before. None of them are likely to back down. Huntsman, who is not fairing well, said, “I’d say third place is a ticket to ride. Hello, South Carolina!”
Still, Romney has some advantages. He has an edge in terms of funding, which is necessary as the primaries move toward larger states. Furthermore, most of his rivals only represent portions of the Republican base. For example, Paul appeals to independents while Santorum and Perry attract social conservatives. No one offers a “complete package.” Romney can also benefit a lot if the evangelicals and the tea party spit their votes.
Winning in South Carolina and Florida will be a great victory for Romney and will help him in moving ahead of the pack. But, it all depends on how he handles his opponents and uses his strengths.
Do you guys think that Romney will capture South Carolina? Will his not very conservative views and religion give him a tough time? Is his sole focus of removing Obama in office enough to carry him until November? *
*He said, “Nothing unites Republicans like these two words: Beat Obama."
