Santorum exits after a campaign that beat all expectations
Everyone who had Rick Santorum making it until the Tuesday after Easter, not giving up his presidential campaign until he’d contested 26 of the 56 primaries/caucuses and won the second-most delegates in them, take your bow.
Or maybe we should just leave the applause to Santorum himself.
A campaign that started with little money and few believers, on the ashes of a blowout of a failed Senate re-election six years ago, pushed Mitt Romney to the brink in such key states as Michigan and Ohio and defeated Newt Gingrich across much of the Deep South. Santorum won Iowa by a hair — though he wasn’t recognized as the winner for a couple of weeks — then used a trifecta of upsets over Romney to become the last serious challenger to him.
He didn’t always help himself by talking at length about social issues in an election year bound to be dominated by dollars and cents, but that’s who he is — and Santorum’s authenticity is part of what drew more than 3 million GOP primary voters to him. Like Mike Huckabee in 2008, he proved there’s still a sizable contingent of evangelicals who are willing to buck the establishment and vote their consciences in a Republican primary. And he may have gone farther than Huckabee in demonstrating an economic platform that conservatives could embrace.
What ultimately did him in were two things. First, he had a way of talking about social issues that, in my view, was unnecessarily abrasive. As I considered whether to vote for him, I couldn’t escape the belief that he could have made the same points in a more appealing way — and that the way he made those points endangered his ability to win the presidency and act on them.
Second, he couldn’t shake his association with the 2000-2006 era of the GOP-led Congress, when Republicans lost their fiscal bearings and turned spendthrift — losing the gains made after 1994 and setting the stage for even bigger blowouts once the Democrats took control in 2007. His votes for big-government Republican policies, and his wince-inducing defense of them as unavoidable in the “team sport” of politics, couldn’t be reconciled with the necessity of paring back government.
It will be crucial now for Romney to woo the voters who chose Santorum instead of him during the past three months. There is some debate about whether they would actually sit out the election, possibly handing it to President Obama. Romney can’t take them for granted, and can’t take that chance. He would do well to be very visible in reaching out to Santorum and to do whatever it takes to get Santorum to bury the hatchet — it was a very ugly primary at times — and work to elect him.
– By Kyle Wingfield
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261 comments Add your comment
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:01 pm
Santorum does not have to WORRY about giving black people other people’s money. ?
huh?
Tiberius - Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:02 pm
Trash, a few points:
First, your comments never used the term “magic” at all, let alone “magic underwear”. First failure for you.
Second, so these “garments” are worn day and night, right? Let me ask you a question: Do you believe in God? If so, do you wear a cross? If so, do you wear it day and night? Against your skin?
Thought so. Failure number 2 for you.
The next time you attempt to denigrate another person’s religion, you might wish to bone up on the one you happen to practice. In short, if there is no cross as a religious symbol to wear, what else are you going to wear against your body?
Garments.
Steve
April 10th, 2012
4:03 pm
Holy undergarments, magic underwear, Obozo, the Kenyan…blah blah blah
It’s only ok when the right wing racists do it eh?
Fundamental Decency is a Concept that is Dying in the Republican Party
April 10th, 2012
4:04 pm
@Tiberius – Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
3:56 pm
“Things are improving”
A MONKEY could be in office (cue the inevitable racism remarks) and things would have improved, HDB. The issue is how much they’ve improved vs. how much they could have improved.
*******************************************************************************
“If you can’t answer a man’s arguments, all is not lost; you can still
call him vile names.”
“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet.”
SHOULDA
COULDA
WOULDA
Michael H. Smith
April 10th, 2012
4:04 pm
The conservatives did not state from the beginning that their main focus was to make Obama a one term president.
We didn’t have to Rafe… the apologist and chief embarrassment made his one term Presidency very clear after about two months in office.
Tiberius - Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:05 pm
“I would love to know what new and compelling information persuaded Mittens to completely change his opinions on abortion, health care, tax policy, the environment, etc.”
I’m sure you would, but that would require reading and research on your part, something you’re clearly incapable of doing, laughing boy
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:05 pm
However, I do find it amusing that someone who thinks Obama is a “Muslim” wouldn’t have concerns about Romney’s Mormonism, since it’s about as different from Christianity as the Islamic faith is. You miss the reason we “liberals” point this out in the first place
It is humorous. Watch how fast Wingfield and the Fox News nuts declare religion off the table this time around.
They will cry religious freedom and that its a personal matter.
Funny that didn’t apply to Obama.
Kyle Wingfield
April 10th, 2012
4:06 pm
Steve: Since I don’t think the vast majority of conservatives oppose Obama because of his race, no, I don’t think you have much of a point there.
Martin Williams
April 10th, 2012
4:06 pm
Kyle, you know Santorum was living in the 1920s and will never be president in this country. I am sure Mitt will not even think of him as a running mate.
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:06 pm
BTW Id like to see Mitt Romney’s birth certificate.
What if he were born in Canada?
My god they actually have Universal Healthcare there !!! The morons !!!!
Kyle Wingfield
April 10th, 2012
4:07 pm
Ernest: Find one instance on this blog of my talking about Obama’s faith. Just one.
Rafe Hollister
April 10th, 2012
4:08 pm
How is wearing “garments” any different from wearing a cross on your sweater, a mask over your face, a ruby in your forehead, or a funny little cap on your head. Religious bigotry always comes from the left. It is America, people have the freedom to worship as they please or not worship. Has nothing to do with their ability to govern.
Tiberius - Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:09 pm
Mr. Liberty, Santorum has SUSPENDED his campaign, not ended it. His delegates are NOT up for grabs. And Ron Paul never had anywhere close to second place in delegates. EVER.
Ron Paul supporters are fervent, but simply delusional.
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:09 pm
Steve: Since I don’t think the vast majority of conservatives oppose Obama because of his race, no, I don’t think you have much of a point there.
Who knows what the real number is??? But if you think its some sort of vast majority you are dead wrong.
I live in the South and the things I have heard behind closed doors ( with no black people around ) frankly is shameful.
Tom
April 10th, 2012
4:10 pm
Let’s stop talking about ANYONE’s “faith.” It’s all a crock of delusional garbage.
kreedham
April 10th, 2012
4:10 pm
Everyone wants to get rid of the President but he’s not the problem…it’s congress. Make a commitment to vote our the incumbents in the Senate and House. If you can compel yourself to vote for the other guy because of his party, then vote for another Republican or Democrat in the primary. I know Georgia would be better off with a whole new slate of congressmen. Don’t think there are any I keep in either party.
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:11 pm
Ernest: Find one instance on this blog of my talking about Obama’s faith. Just one.
I doubt I will.
But don’t act like it wasn’t going on. In spades.
And continues to this day.
Tell you what how many articles did you write condemning those that questioned his religion?
If you did then good for you.
Tiberius - Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:12 pm
Rafe Hollister @ 4:08: Thanks for helping out! These religious bigots on the left are simply unbelievable.
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:16 pm
Religious bigotry always comes from the left.
That maybe the funniest thing I have ever heard.
Mormons also believe that Jesus came to America.
]
See im not saying that is right or wrong. Im merely pointing it out.
THAT IS WHAT MORMONS BELIEVE !!!!
That is a long way from the hatred the right has for Muslims and the lies they will tell about Obama and his faith in order to move their agenda.
Big difference. Again I understand if you Republicans dont get it.
Jefferson
April 10th, 2012
4:16 pm
Only the folks concerned with a man’s religion will make it an issue and there’s plenty around to do it. Either man.
Fundamental Decency is a Concept that is Dying in the Republican Party
April 10th, 2012
4:18 pm
@Tiberius – Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:02 pm
Trash, a few points:
First, your comments never used the term “magic” at all, let alone “magic underwear”. First failure for you.
Second, so these “garments” are worn day and night, right? Let me ask you a question: Do you believe in God? If so, do you wear a cross? If so, do you wear it day and night? Against your skin?
Thought so. Failure number 2 for you.
The next time you attempt to denigrate another person’s religion, you might wish to bone up on the one you happen to practice. In short, if there is no cross as a religious symbol to wear, what else are you going to wear against your body?
Garments.
**************************************************************************************
He did say:
Steve
April 10th, 2012
3:42 pm
So you deny that Mormons have holy underwear?, Tiberius? How is that bigotry, that’s just a fact.
***************************
Tiberius why are you getting so defensive?
Is it because……………………………………….
mormon underwear makes you feel UNCOMFORTABLE speaking about it?
Aint’ No SHAME IN THE GAME.
Tiberius - Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:19 pm
“Mormons also believe that Jesus came to America.”
Since you wouldn’t back up your “magic underwear” claim, why don’t you try doing so for this one, Ernest?
Rafe Hollister
April 10th, 2012
4:19 pm
Ernest Tee
Oblamer was raised as a Muslim, professes to be a Christian, what is he?
A complete failure as a President, regardless of what religion he is!
Scooter
April 10th, 2012
4:20 pm
I wouldn’t have voted for Santorum but felt he said what he believed, as opposed to what he needed to say, and that is honorable. That being said, my heart goes out to his whole family as they deal with Bella’s health problems.
Fundamental Decency is a Concept that is Dying in the Republican Party
April 10th, 2012
4:21 pm
@Tiberius – Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:12 pm
Rafe Hollister @ 4:08: Thanks for helping out! These religious bigots on the left are simply unbelievable.
*********************************************************************************
Religious bigots?
Kettle calling the Pot black (Obama is a muslim?)
heeheeheeheeheeheeheeheeheeheeheehee
@@
April 10th, 2012
4:21 pm
I didn’t know Paul Ryan was agreeable to serve as Romney’s V.P. He said as much on a Sunday talk show.
Beyond kewl!!!!
Ryan also said he saw in the current rhetoric of “class” a path to compromise.
“Why don’t we stop subsidizing the wealthy, why don’t we stop subsidizing corporations, why don’t we stop corporate welfare?” he asked. “There is an area I think we can get consensus on.”
A dozen democrats support his plan to cut entitlements and privatize some others?
Romney/Ryan? Has a nice ring to it.
Tiberius - Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:22 pm
Trash, I had no problem with speaking about anyone’s religion. I just like to make sure that lies and hyperbole are kept to a minimum on this blog (a tough thing to do with he likes of you here).
Now, you failed once on this topic. Care to fail again? Or do I get the apology from you that I should receive for your being wrong about what Mormons believe?
Steve
April 10th, 2012
4:23 pm
It’s so easy to rile up the cretins on these blogs. The saner, centrist, intelligent posters are certainly not here.
It’s also extremely easy to point out the hypocrisy, Kyle. Obama = Muslim = Kenyan = where is your birth certificate. I’ve been reading postings about this for years now. I’ve seen the placards at tea party rallies. Where are the “Romney isn’t a real Christian” protests from the same people? What about Romney’s grandfather being a – GASP – Mexican? What about Romney believing in a different Bible? What about Romney being more liberal than Obama in the 1990s? Seriously, folks, you would vote for any rich white guy with an R next to their name. Anyone.
Michael H. Smith
April 10th, 2012
4:23 pm
Rafe Hollister @ 4:08: Thanks for helping out! These religious bigots on the left are simply unbelievable.
I can’t say much better things in regards to the religious bigots on the right either.
My faith disagrees with both Mormon and Catholics on Biblical doctrines but I respect the rights of people of both these particular beliefs. The 1st amendment protects religious plurality, Mr. Rick Warren of Saddleback. I think we should do the same, not only as born again believers but as Americans as well.
@@
April 10th, 2012
4:23 pm
Well…my 4:21 was kinda on topic.
Fundamental Decency is a Concept that is Dying in the Republican Party
April 10th, 2012
4:24 pm
@@Tiberius – Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:12 pm
Rafe Hollister @ 4:08: Thanks for helping out! These religious bigots on the left are simply unbelievable.
*********************************************************************************
RELIGIOUS BIGOTS? WHO DAT?
Rafe Hollister
April 10th, 2012
4:19 pm
Ernest Tee
Oblamer was raised as a Muslim, professes to be a Christian, what is he?
A complete failure as a President, regardless of what religion he is!
****************************************************************
The only RELIGIOUS BIGOTS and FAILURES aroung here are YOU AND RAFE.
td
April 10th, 2012
4:27 pm
Wade Hampton
April 10th, 2012
3:48 pm
How much woo does it take for a Wingfield to vote for a big government North-east moderate that understands the economy over a big government Chicago socialist?
Had to fix it for you. To answer your question not very difficult at all.
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:27 pm
Since you wouldn’t back up your “magic underwear” claim, why don’t you try doing so for this one, Ernest?
third paragraph down.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Book_of_Mormon
The Book of Mormon has a number of original and distinctive doctrinal discussions on subjects such as the fall of Adam and Eve,[5] the nature of the Atonement,[6] eschatology, redemption from physical and spiritual death,[7] and the organization of the latter-day church. The pivotal event of the book is an appearance of Jesus Christ to the Americas shortly after his resurrection.
Rafe Hollister
April 10th, 2012
4:28 pm
Kyle, the Trashman Superstar is back. Is it Ok to use multiple names, like Republicans Beware, Trashman Superstar, Fred, Fundamental Decency? He has a new name for every blog. Just wondering what the rules are.
Michael H. Smith
April 10th, 2012
4:31 pm
eschatology?
Ernst, I know what the word means and you might as well but I doubt five other people who read this blog haves the slightest clue, unless they attend a Bible college or seminary.
Steve
April 10th, 2012
4:32 pm
Rafe, if you’re referring to me as “Trash” or whomever, I’ve only used “Steve” on this blog. I’m not that complicated.
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:33 pm
Here is one on the underwear.
http://www.ldschurchtemples.com/mormon/underwear/
@@
April 10th, 2012
4:34 pm
@@Tiberius????
Again…two different people, Fred.
He’s either confused or has a overactive digit on his left hand. A tic if you will.
Weird dude…
or dudette!
Tiberius - Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:34 pm
Thank you, Ernest T.
Now, do Mormons actually believe that? As in, do all (or a majority, even) of Christians actually believe that Lot’s wife was turned into a pillar of salt?
Really?
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:35 pm
Kyle, you find that article condemning those questioning Obama’s faith?
Took you about .6 seconds to defend Romney’s religion.
Rafe Hollister
April 10th, 2012
4:35 pm
Steve, not you.
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:36 pm
Now, do Mormons actually believe that?
I dunno. Do Christians believe Mary was a virgin ?
Ask them.
Steve
April 10th, 2012
4:36 pm
“Garments are a symbolic gesture of the promises that Mormons have made to God. The garment is always worn under other clothing, next to the skin. In fact, for most people who wear it, the garment takes the place of regular underwear. Mormons begin wearing it during their first visit to the temple, wherein they receive individual instruction on how the garment should be worn and cared for, and furthermore, they undergo a sacred ceremony called the temple endowment. Solely during this ritual, additional special clothing is put on; by contrast, the garment or special underwear is worn at all times, both day and night, from then on. It serves as a constant reminder of the covenants made during the temple endowment.”
So, this is ok, but socialism is bad. Muslim is bad.
(again, Obama is not any more of a socialist than Reagan, Bush, or any preceding Republican President – reality check, people).
Steve
April 10th, 2012
4:38 pm
Mormons don’t drink, smoke, and I’m sure there are other prohibitions. Good for them. But you can look up the word cult, and this religion isn’t far from it.
Fundamental Decency is a Concept that is Dying in the Republican Party
April 10th, 2012
4:38 pm
@Tiberius – Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:22 pm
Trash, I had no problem with speaking about anyone’s religion. I just like to make sure that lies and hyperbole are kept to a minimum on this blog (a tough thing to do with he likes of you here).
Now, you failed once on this topic. Care to fail again? Or do I get the apology from you that I should receive for your being wrong about what Mormons believe?
*********************************************************
Tiberius I thought Kyle was AGAINST name calling?
Who are you calling TRASH?
REMEMBER THIS:
@Tiberius – Your lightning rod of hate!
March 14th, 2012
9:43 pm
“So now YOU ALL are the BLOG POLICE.”
YOUR WORDS: Nope. Just issuing friendly warnings based on Kyle’s recent posts regarding civility.
“I can’t help if some of US are creative and some of YOU are mediocre”
YOUR WORDS: Trust me. There is NOTHING about you that is even remotely associated with the word creative. Creepy? Yes. Creative? Not so much.
“YOU AIN’T THE BOSS OF ME.”
YOUR WORDS: Good thing, too. I would have fired your a$$ long ago
**********************************************
Republicans ARE HYPOCRITES
Ernest T. Bass
April 10th, 2012
4:39 pm
The pivotal event of the book is an appearance of Jesus Christ to the Americas shortly after his resurrection.
I would say that sentence means they pretty much believe it. Lots wife turning into salt isn’t pivotal to the whole story.
Mary being a virgin is etc etc.
Tiberius - Your lightning rod of hate!
April 10th, 2012
4:40 pm
Ernest, I will copy my 4:02 response to Trashman regarding the “magic underwear” nonsense you like to spout:
“Trash, a few points:
First, your comments never used the term “magic” at all, let alone “magic underwear”. First failure for you.
Second, so these “garments” are worn day and night, right? Let me ask you a question: Do you believe in God? If so, do you wear a cross? If so, do you wear it day and night? Against your skin?
Thought so. Failure number 2 for you.
The next time you attempt to denigrate another person’s religion, you might wish to bone up on the one you happen to practice. In short, if there is no cross as a religious symbol to wear, what else are you going to wear against your body?
Garments.”
Rafe Hollister
April 10th, 2012
4:42 pm
Ernest Tee
I do not think that you can condemn people for what they think. How can Kyle or anyone else write a column condemning people for thinking however they want. No matter what we say, you support Oblamer, nothing we could say or write would change your mind, it is locked and inflexible, as are the minds of the people who think he is a Muslim.
Oblamer is whatever he is and people have to judge for themselves whether they believe what he says. Obviously he has not convinced everyone that his word is his bond. Wonder why that is, could it be all the lies he has been caught in.
@@
April 10th, 2012
4:42 pm
Is anyone offended by the “possibility” that Harry Reid may wear “magic underwear”?
There are a lot of things about Harry Reid that offend me, but what he wears under his clothing isn’t one of ‘em.
Just saying..
April 10th, 2012
4:42 pm
Three years of complaining produces Obama Lite?