February 3, 2008
Posted: 03:15 PM ET

(CNN) — Mitt Romney predicted Sunday his party's conservative base will rally behind him on Super Tuesday in order to prevent John McCain from winning the Republican nomination.

"What I have to do is continue to see what's been happening the last few days, specifically that is conservatives across the country are saying, 'whoa, we have to get behind Mitt Romney,'" he said on CNN's Late Edition.

Full story

– CNN Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: John McCain • Mitt Romney


DH   February 4th, 2008 10:45 pm ET

Hey earl (do u have your own show?)
I bet I can guess your profession
You are a job for life governemnet employee.
Wake up and see where the rubber meets the road
Get out of Marin County and see the world
The demos like an uneducated populace —-then they can be lord of the ding dongs.
Make a payroll and you will have an epiphany!!!!!

DH   February 4th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

Don't be fooled
If it quacks like a democrat, votes like a democrat, spins like a democrat then by gosh it is a democrat. McCain is a democrat in republican clothing
Watchout voters.
He should be on the demo ticket

Nance   February 4th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Mitt has my support as well…

As far as I am concerned…we have had McCain for the past 30 years…what's he done for you lately? He's part of the PROBLEM..NOT the SOLUTION!

Go Romney!!!

Steve Blaine Washington   February 4th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Lots of people have been talking about McCain's temper. How many people would trust someone with McCain's temperment with his finger on the nuclear
trigger. How many nations would step up their readiness for launching a counter attack with McCain's finger on the trigger. Certainly Russia and China.
Think long and hard about this.

Has   February 4th, 2008 9:51 am ET

Go Mitt.

Hope the conservatives get behind you, can not seriously see McCain running anything.

leezee   February 4th, 2008 9:25 am ET

I love watching you conservatives fighting amongst yourselves! go McCain!

Dobby   February 4th, 2008 9:01 am ET

Vote for the Conservative that can win. Vote for Mitt!

A vote for Huckabee is a vote for McCain. And McCain would be a disaster.

W.D.Russell, East Liverpool, Ohio   February 4th, 2008 8:06 am ET

While 'liberal' McCain was in VietNam, 'conservative' Romney went to France to party to avoid the draft.
That about says it all.

Will   February 4th, 2008 8:03 am ET

The only real conservatives still running in the republican primary are Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul. Of all 4 candidates, Romney would be my last choice. I hope he doesn't win the nomination.

Florida Decides   February 4th, 2008 7:28 am ET

LETS ALL JOIN

THE STOP MCCAIN EXPRESS

AND DERAIL HIM AND THE LIBERAL MEDIA TOMORROW.

TUESDAY WILL BE MITT'S BEST.

Stan   February 4th, 2008 7:23 am ET

Wonder why no one brings up the McCain scandal…. can we remember
Keating Five !

frank gambuzza   February 4th, 2008 7:07 am ET

You know with the exception of Lou Dobbs you people suck with you interveiws Where was Barac and Clinton last election when the american people told Owr government No amnisty and owr security cheif Churdoff said he didn't want to see illegal aliens getting drivers licences Well I. one 40 yr democrat going to vote republican I want to see clintons health plan but this really pisses me off that both dems are not lisining to there constiuants and you morons don't bring this up during the debates get a job espesially wolf Blitser he's the worse

Ainars   February 4th, 2008 6:59 am ET

Trang, Fremont, CA
Well also Romey and Huckabie support war and surge, so be honest and don't blame only McCain. McCain is prolife and support constructionist judges, so he is also conservative – he is not change his position like Romney did.

mb   February 4th, 2008 6:39 am ET

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If Mitt Romney had a nickel for every time he changed positions on an issue, he would be a rich man.
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Honor, Truth, Duty- This is John McCain.

Brent   February 4th, 2008 6:05 am ET

There are Senior Advisors to Huckabee's campaign who are encouraging him to get out of the race. Of course, he isn't listening – his EGO is too BIG.

Ken   February 4th, 2008 3:34 am ET

Go Mitt !!!

Mitt has serious momentum folks – get behind a serious conservative.

Mitt has my vote and support!

Chris in Silicon Valley   February 4th, 2008 1:23 am ET

I have to admit… I used to like McCain over Romney, but I am liking old Mitt over McCain as time goes by. The only thing that makes me lean toward McCain over Romney is that Rush Limbaugh, Anne Coulter, etc. want Romney.

McCain looked old and acted like a child in the last debate.

Don't lose heart, all you Romney fans! He is neck-and-neck w/ McCain here in CA, and we have 173 delegates!!! That would even things up real fast.

americanwarrior   February 4th, 2008 1:15 am ET

So one should not spend their own money? They should obtain funds from special interests then pay them back when they are in office. Wake up America. Go to Miami or Puerto Rico and you will see carpenters, ambulance drivers and other blue collar jobs making $6 an hour. Why you may ask? Well there are illegal employees on every corner. Go to the hospitals and see what is going on… How can anyone think that Amnesty is a good idea? Americans and our country need to cut back on spending. We are going into a tough time and our leaders spend like we are going into a boom. The only person who is an expert of change management is Mitt Romney. Huck needs to get out instead of doing his best to save McCain.

Mark C, Asheville NC   February 4th, 2008 1:15 am ET

I must say all the crying and wailing and gnashing of teeth going on in the right wing of the GOP is the most entertaining thing I've ever seen in politics. HILARIOUS! It's ALMOST enough to make me support Hillary over Obama, to keep the boo-hooing going for four years. Almost.

Thanks for the entertainment guys. Keep it up until November at least!

earl illingsworth   February 4th, 2008 1:14 am ET

You know one thing I've learned in my lifetime is that a republican could care less about anyone or anything other than himself/herself, and their pocketbook. Yea, they preach about the war ,and fighting for our honor, but it's only to keep their wealth and power(selfish motivation)secured! Rich Man's War ,Poor Man's Fight is still the motto for these parasites. While on the subject of moral superiority, these clowns ban abortion for the poor,and never atone with contraceptives for these forsakened souls,but their families and children wouldn't bat a eyelash to abort if it was their daughters(ill-gotten child).Finally ,on the subject of taxes,fiscal responsibilities and punishment? I'll mention it only once, it occured twenty so years ago, but it could be as if it happened yesterday. The book called "Den of Thieves", with it, principle four characters,"Milken,Boesky,Siegal,andLevine"basically brought this country to it's knees. The best and brightest ,all Republicans and big contributers to the GOP,made ,S&L Crises,and "ENRON"&"WORLDCOM"etc. small by comparison,to their greed and malfeasance. They robbed the public of Billion's of dollors and the government let them all out of jail with a combined total ten years!Milken worked for Ted Turner when told not to by the government,Boesky went to Russia, then onto Germany ,as an advisor to their banking(POST BERLIN WALL), and walla we have a meltdown in our countries mortgage banks,stock market, and value of our dollar. Coincidense? That's why any of the so called conservatives make me never want to vote,and Cloutier certainly doesn't help,backsliding on Limbaugh, oh ,the horror! Romney's buying the election, and McCain's," Flip-Flop Shuffle", makes one wish we didn't need a "CEASAR"?

Trang, Fremont, CA   February 4th, 2008 1:14 am ET

If McCain is the best Republicans can come up to represent them, I do feel bad for them. Romney is the successful businessman and Mike Huckabee is a likeable guy with consistent conservative values and able to explain things very well to the common folks, but McCain leads and he wants perpetual war that can bankrupt this country. I have to scratch my head if I am a republican. I think both Obama and Hillary can take McCain – if he keeps up his war drums, which is the only strength that he think he can claim because he doesn't know that much about economics. We are pretty much immune to Bush's scare tactics, so if they want to use the war to scare us, it ain't working this time.

James Mo   February 4th, 2008 1:14 am ET

I haven't decided who I will vote for, but I think people accusing Romney of "buying the election" is rediculous. Think about this. Our economy is sinking. Mitt Romney is pouring his own money into this economy faster than anyone else. He is paying salaries, renting vehicles, motel rooms, buying meals for his staff, purchasing advertising, etc, etc, etc. All of that money is going into our economy. It is not going to China, which is where most of the money from the "stimulus package" will go.

Nancy Phx. AZ   February 4th, 2008 1:12 am ET

I have lived in Phoenix AZ all my life. In AZ we know who McCain is, HE is NOT conservative!!!!look at his record . He has deserted the Republican party in AZ and in the country. We do not want McCain to be President . We know him. He manipulates people all the time. People are afraid to speak up with how they feel.
He is very powerful and many owe him favors. He is a mean spirited old man. If he is the Rep. nominee then all the dirt from his past will be exposed and there is plenty. By the way A vote fro Huckabe is a vote for McCain. People study the issues.

Roger from MA   February 4th, 2008 1:06 am ET

E.C. — I, unlike you, live in Romney's state. I lived here when he was governer. I think I'm more qualified to talk about the stances he held as governor than you are.

He indeed DID support the socialized medical plan that we adopted here (one that is essentially identical to the one that Hillary is proposing).

He most certainly DID support the "pro-life" (ie. pro-abortion) movement.

He most certainly DID keep quiet during the whole gay marriage controversy.

He's far more liberal than many southern Democrats.

Terri White   February 4th, 2008 1:06 am ET

Romney is crazy!

Edward S.   February 4th, 2008 1:06 am ET

I just cannot grasp at John McCain winning his challenges thus far and to defeat Rudy, then having him as a support for his campaign. If I beat someone, then I don't want a loser backing me…especially on my stage. Mr. McCain, he's sinking your ship. Get him OFF!!! Now!!

Tim   February 4th, 2008 1:00 am ET

to save the america empire, vote for ron paul, mitt or hillary if you can. avoid mccain and obama. the least choice is obama

Annie   February 4th, 2008 12:59 am ET

I can not decide who to vote for. I do not like McCain. He is a Bush clone, as far as the war is concerned. Even some Republicans are unhappy with the way this country is headed. I have no idea where Romney stands, since he has changed so much. I like Huckabee in some ways, because I do think he has a better grip on what is happening in the US to us normal folks. But, I disagree on his wanting to change the constitution. I respect Ron Paul, I think he probably has a clearer picture of the economy and why we are going into a recession than anyone else.

I am to vote on Tuesday, and my husband and I read in our newspaper today that we are allowed to cross party lines and vote in either primary, so I think I am going to vote for Barak Obama. At least I will get to vote against Hillary. Huckabee will win my state, so at least my vote may help keep Hillary out of the White House.

RavenNagicxx   February 4th, 2008 12:59 am ET

Romney is far more small government conservative than McCain and Huckabee, and less of one than Ron Paul.

Sadly RP doesn't have the delegates at this point. I really wish he'd drop as those are votes that would go Romney or Huckabee, and we need to defeat the 1st liberal (McCain) before taking on the 2nd one in November (Clinton/Obama).

Big Government things John McCain has supported:
100 years in Iraq (which is a death sentence in the general election, btw – Clinton/Obama will destroy him utterly over this)
Opposed Bush Tax Cuts
McCain/Kennedy immigration bill
McCain/Feingold bill

McCain is not for smaller government. Romney, and to a greater extent Ron Paul, are both for limited government. Romney would try to reduce government intervention, whereas Paul would try and eliminate it.

Huckabee recently proposed that constitutional amendment stating something roughly to the effect of "we ought to govern as Jesus would have us." This immediately disqualifies him from winning the general election as there are too many non-Southern Baptists for him to win. Partial repeal of the 1st amendment? I mean, seriously?

Ron Paul, while I like him, simply doesn't have the ability to pull it out at this point. So Romney is the winner of the two conservatives in the race.

alex   February 4th, 2008 12:57 am ET

I think most of you Romney haters are either democrats or closet democrats and thats why you want a weak Republican nominee like Mccain to lose to a democrat in November

val davydov, ma   February 4th, 2008 12:27 am ET

Scott,

What a great post!

GO ROMNEY!

Mrs. America   February 4th, 2008 12:25 am ET

If polls count for anything, Huckabee is tilting the nomination to McCain. Look at the numbers. That's not to say that all Huckabee supporters would choose Romney, but it would be a much closer race without the Huckabee factor. Huckabee surely can't win the nomination, so I wonder what his motivation is, other than having a good time, which he clearly is.

Chad   February 4th, 2008 12:22 am ET

I'm a Democrat, but I can't stomach that race anymore. I am curious to see who is going to face Clinton and her "superdelegates" in the general election. I think McCain has the best chance to beat her. And by the way, why are conservatives complaining about him? He's a social conservative – pro life and pro war – isn't that the only thing you people care about? Ohhh, I remember. Because he says we shouldn't torture people! I see. He's trying to end this country's proud tradition of torturing people and holding them without trial. We can't have people like that in the White House!!!

LSmith   February 4th, 2008 12:21 am ET

I see the comments on here about Romney buying the election with his own money. I still don't see a problem with a person spending his own money to run for president. If a guy uses his own money doesn't that mean that he will not end up owing people. McCain is buying the presidency by purchasing endorsements by selling cabinet seats, the vice presidency and other postions, ect. Isn't it better to buy adds with money than it is to buy the presidency by selling your soul. get real, McCain is a sell out and Huckabee is his B_t_h.

mb   February 3rd, 2008 11:43 pm ET

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If Mitt Romney had a nickel for every time he changed positions on an issue, he would be a rich man.
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Honor, Truth, Duty- This is John McCain.

Nathan, Houston, TX   February 3rd, 2008 11:41 pm ET

So what we're saying is that because Romney was successful in life, he's disqualified to be President? Interesting.

Nathan, Houston, TX   February 3rd, 2008 11:38 pm ET

OOPS…Romney is investing his own money in our country's future!

Scott   February 3rd, 2008 10:41 pm ET

Bunch of quickies here. 1. Polling during Reagan's race against Carter said Reagan would lose big. It was a landslide for Reagan. 2. If Romney is in it for the money or power… why is it that he didn't take pay for his work in the Olympics or as governer? Filthy rich people dominate our government to be honest, but how many of them forego their salary? 3. Romney isn't perfect, I can deal with that. 4. So what if he spends a lot of his own money. You know darn well that if McCain had the rescources Romney did he'd be spending it to. But McCain had to marry into money… but I digress. 5. Yes Romney made his gazillions in his corperations. Is that bad? How many thousands of jobs did he create in the prossess? How many jobs have McCain and Huckabee created in their life times? 6. For the Hucksters, tell me again why Romney should drop out? He has THREE TIMES the deligates Huckabee has and it's not like he won't be picking up a good number of deligates on Tuesday. 7. He's freaking smart! He graduated from Harvard in the top FIVE PERCENT! McCain was fifth from the BOTTOM in the naval academy. 8. Back to money again. Romney has RAISED more money that McCain and Huckabee COMBINED!! Maybe because a ton of people think he can do a good job. 9. So what if he's mormon. Did you know that Ronald Reagan had more Mormons in cabinet and senior staff possitions than any president in history? 10. GOTTA LOVE THE HAIR!!!!
Ok, there are ten good reasons to vote for Romney. He's not perfect, but he's got a ton of the right qualities.

Greg from AZ   February 3rd, 2008 10:39 pm ET

Hey, if the Giants can win the Super Bowl – then Romney can sure win on Super Tuesday. Go Mitt!!!!!

johnny b.   February 3rd, 2008 10:38 pm ET

whatever happened to reagan's 11th commandment, mitt? anyway, after mccain seals this on super tuesday, expect mitt to get back into the fold. funny, his daddy, george, ran in the 60's as a moderate republican- back when that was allowed.

Let's get serious   February 3rd, 2008 10:36 pm ET

Time is short.
Send your emails to friends and family in states that haven't voted.
We did our part in Michigan to turn around a McCain lead to a Romney victory.

We need the best person to stimulate the economy.
Romney worked hard and earned his money.
He didn't inherit his wealth.
His whole family has a tremendous work ethic and core values that most Americans hold dear.
He will appoint conservative judges.
We need his leadership.

Do you want Canadian healthcare?
Canadians are coming here for surgery. Ask a Canadian about their healthcare.

Constructive blogs can influence.
Don't name call.
Email often.
Let your articulate voice be heard.

E. C., Houston, Texas   February 3rd, 2008 10:33 pm ET

People who criticize Mitt Romney know absolutely nothing about his record or his achievements or his opinion and stance on issues! You're parroting things said by OPPONENTS of Mitt Romney, like McCain and Huckabee…or the obnoxious Liberal Media on the Networks! Or try Hillary Clinton or Obama! McCain tries hard to put FALSE ACCUSATIONS in Play and Romney is not afraid to stand him down, as he should. McCain is so Liberal that next….we'll be hearing about a McCain/Lieberman Dream Team! Mitt Romney is the ONLY Candidate worth a Vote! Romney is so qualified and so much Better Experienced than All the Rest of the Candidates of Both Parties…Combined… that it is not even a contest!

Giovi   February 3rd, 2008 10:28 pm ET

Mc Cain – Cannot speak, answers nothing because he does not understand the issues – the audience cannot even see his mouth move.
This is the front runner of the republican party? An old soldier who likes war?

Romney – Give him a job running a construction project. He cannot run a country of immigrants – people he has contempt for.

Paul – Why is he running?

Huckabee – He was the only one who actually spoke in the complete sentences of the self righteous like the evangelist he claims to be.

The Democrats must take back the White House !!!!

matt UK   February 3rd, 2008 10:28 pm ET

I think a lot of people are hooked on on barack's sugar coating and sparkle. dig deeper everytime he speaks, and guess what… you're still wondering, 'but where's the substance?' all i hear is generic statements of hope etc etc etc. thats all very well, if there are real plans to back it up. the job at stake is not one of a motivational speaker, all though it helps. it's the president's job to make concrete progress behind closed doors, just as hillary's done all her life. although i admire obama greatly, in fact i've been torn between them, he should accept to be on the same ticket as hillary and the only way thats going to happen is to VOTE HILLARY. and thats unstoppable. not just my opinion, but expert concenus even among republicans. look it up, anywhere.

come on guys. lets have them both. vote hillary!

Tom   February 3rd, 2008 10:27 pm ET

Romney is such a pathetic loser. If it weren't for his money, he'd a been gone long ago. I can't wait til that loser packs it in. Just like all the other whiney crybabies from New England.

tim   February 3rd, 2008 10:23 pm ET

How many times did Mr. Straight Talk Express refer to Mitt Romney in the debates as "MY FRIEND" If this is not the zenith of hypocracy then what is. He speaks out of the corners of his mouth. Him and Huckabee have an obvious agreement. Thanks goodness for Obama that he is only black. If he was also Mormon he'd really have a conspiracy out to gas him. McCain is truly slimy.

Mary   February 3rd, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Go ROMNEY 08!!

CC   February 3rd, 2008 10:22 pm ET

I agree, Stevo. Romney is confident, but not arrogant or belittling , sneering or hotheaded like McCain and sarcastic and covetous of $$ like Huckabee is. He appears much more presidential and statesmanlike than the other 2 "Republicans" . ("Republicans" because there were a number of people who remember conversations of McCain changing to Democrat….altho he finds it hard to remember!)

Fred   February 3rd, 2008 10:19 pm ET

He mentioned the name of Rush Limbaugh and Ann Coulter???

Aren't those both comedians? Why would he or anybody take those two people seriously?? Rush is a retard. There aren't even words to describe what Coulter is.

I would like to like Romney, but how can you support someone who thinks there is nothing wrong with the way drug companies conduct business? Has he ever heard of Bristol Myers for example and the government's 7 year investigation of them and their crimes?
He just reminds me of everything I hate about fanatical right wingers – protect corporations and their greed at all costs, and let everyone else pay the price. It's wrong, period.
I like Romney's business sense, he can RUN things as opposed to the fool now in Washington, but he's shifty like Nixon, I don't trust him. His mormonism has absolutely nothing to do with his electibility in my opinion.

Akat   February 3rd, 2008 10:17 pm ET

"Who is he to determine who is still in this…I agree with Huckabee and have said that Romney…if he truly cared for this country and thinks McCain is bad for the Republician party would get out and let Huck have his chance."

Anyone who knows anything realizes that the only reason that Yuckabee is even still in this is because he wants to be McCains lap dog if McCain gets the nomination and be his running mate. Otherwise he would drop out and stop taking votes away from Romney. Yuckabee is not as conservative as he claims if he can sabotage a real conservative's campaign to improve the chances of a liberal winning the REPUBLLICAN nomination.

Janet   February 3rd, 2008 10:16 pm ET

We need Romney in there to beat that wicked woman, Hillary!!!!!!!! Plus, he would make the best President! All Hillary does is bring down the USA. She keeps talking about how bad it is. I think America is the best place in the world to live, and she keeps trashing it.

Stacer   February 3rd, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Mitt Romney is what the GOP and this whole country needs right now! He can fix messes better than any of the others.

Jo, ATL GA   February 3rd, 2008 10:15 pm ET

So what happened so far? They have not being voting.

Conrad   February 3rd, 2008 10:09 pm ET

Romney was a liberal two years ago, now he claims to be a Reagan Conservative. He is a flim flam man that will say anything to get elected. The flip floppers money won'y buy him the presidency. Send him back to MA.

The truth will set you free!   February 3rd, 2008 10:07 pm ET

McCain…another liberal in sheep's clothing. Now is the time for all good conservatives to come to the aid of their country and vote for Mitt Romney. Yes, Mitt has changed his mind and admits it while McCain lies without blinking an eye….reminds me of the Clintons.

Write-In Will DePort   February 3rd, 2008 10:06 pm ET

Thank you fellow United Patriots for glancing at this comment. Thank United Patriots for your blogging against McCain. Thank you for all your efforts in the revolution. Have no fear the new third party designed for Patriots like yourself will be putting an election into the legislative process so small states can have the same voting power as the big states.

Mark J Georgia   February 3rd, 2008 10:01 pm ET

Every blog page I have read has been tilted toward Romney. Why? That's because it is mostly literate people that know how to write and blog. And literate people tend to earn their own living and understand the value of a strong economy. So that's why the majority of bloggers support Romney. If you don't get it, ask a conservative friend to explain it to you.

Kathy from Phoenix   February 3rd, 2008 9:58 pm ET

I support Romney. I find McCain distasteful.

james riscoe   February 3rd, 2008 9:58 pm ET

anyone or anything rush limbaugh is for is a sure sign to look very carefully and jump to the other side….anyone who thinks rush limbaugh is anything other than an empty-headed gasbag needs career counseling….Mitt Romney is a Stepford candidate who has only one agenda, and that is to be elected, although I'm not sure he even knows why he wants to run…jmmr

hsmith   February 3rd, 2008 9:55 pm ET

I do not understand why Romney has been labeled a conservative. He has been the governor of the most liberal state in the union! He has spent a fortune and got little to show for it in the presidential campaign- not productive or efficient. He has said that he is more liberal on gay rights than Ted Kennedy. His position on abortion is muddled. Any of this sound conservative? No, he is the candidate of the Wall Street conservatives – not the social, military, or even economic conservatives. He has been supported by big money and special interest groups that want to send more jobs to India, so they can make more money. My conservative vote is for Huckabee – the social, military, and economic conservative, and the only one in the race!

David....Nevada   February 3rd, 2008 9:55 pm ET

Its all tax deductible.. what does it matter how much anyone spends of their own money likewise.. Johnny Mc supporters and all others, don't let it eat at ya how much someone spends on their own campaign cause you run the risk of becoming another bitter old man with no country and definitlely no love.
Romney for responsible economics and immigration

Maggie   February 3rd, 2008 9:54 pm ET

I do believe in the power of the people to come thru on Super Tuesday for Mitt Romney. I like many others out here have been waiting for others to have their hearts and minds opened up to see what a great man Mitt Romney is!! Our Country needs a geat leader to go forth and stand up for what he truly believes in , America and its people….that is why he has spent his own money, because He knows He can make do the right thing and make a difference !!!! He truly is the right man at this time for us….Go to the polls and do what is right for America, vote for Mitt!!!!!

David, Tempe, AZ   February 3rd, 2008 9:51 pm ET

The dialogue on this message board has to be nearly the saddest case of political discourse I have ever seen. How many of you have actually read the stances of each of these candidates? On top of that, how many of you have actually thought long and hard about each of the issues? How many of you feel that the answer to our current situation, whether it be immigration, the economy, the war on terror, religion, social issues, or any other hot button topic, is to ride as one party with the wind to our backs and half of America saying — "I've been left out and ignored?" Why is it the Republican party has transformed into a hate mongering, unilateral in philosophy, party that finds more motivation from fighting the guy/gal across the aisle than working together to find a consensus?

Though I believe what I have said above would be robbed with an endorsement of a candidate, I must say that I find it refreshing to know that at least a few of these candidates have actually thought logically about these issues and found a rational answer — no matter how much political capital it will garner or popularity amongst the base.

To move on from the era of Bush and to become a viable candidate for hope in this country the party must be transformative and cooperative. We must balance the visions of not only Reagan, but also Goldwater. This party use to stand for something that was inspiring and revolutionary, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, etc. To appeal to the people of America our party must think progressively and in the best interest of all AMERICANS.

I only hope that we will see this change and be the party of the future, not of the past.

mike schramer   February 3rd, 2008 9:46 pm ET

I agree with those saying we get behind Mitt Romney. We need his clarity and diplomacy.

Debbie Schramer   February 3rd, 2008 9:44 pm ET

I want to say that I believe Mitt Romney would be an incredible, trustworthy and outstanding president for our country! We desperately need a man to lead our wonderful nation who is honest, confident, kind and who has great diplomacy and an understanding of how to communicate with others. His successful experience in business and government, his love and appreciation of family values and his decency and forthrightness would be something people all over our country would so deeply be grateful for……to finally have a president who we could trust and believe in. Mitt Romney answers questions with pertinent and upright anwers; he faces the world's problems and has understandable and real solutions and he is able to show kindness and thoughtfulness in relating with others. I respect him so much and see the great spirit that he has within him to represent the people of our nation in an honorable and decent way.

I truely believe that Mitt Romney would be one of the best presidents our country could ever have! I sincerely hope that people will listen to him and see his great abilities and gifts of leadership. He is truely the best candidate for the President of the United States.

Thank you,
Debbie Schramer

sal   February 3rd, 2008 9:43 pm ET

February 3, 2008 12:59 pm ET

I am a staunch Hillary supporter but if she doesn't take the nomination, I will vote for Romney. If Romney doesn't get the nomination, I will have to sit out the election for the first time in my life. I simply can't vote for McCain. He scares me with his unyielding support of Bush and the war.

lccat   February 3rd, 2008 9:41 pm ET

I don't understand why some people want Senator McCamnesty to be our next President. Understand my frustration realizing the numerous similarities between Senator McCamnesty and the two leading dems. Senator McCamnesty would be a natural candidate as a War Hero with his apparently demonstrated strength in National Defense except for his refusal to Defend our National Borders, Pro-ILLEGAL, Pro-Blanket AMNESTY, against Tax Cuts, help block judges, etc,etc..

Marleen   February 3rd, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Romney is by far the most intelligent and eloquent candidate that's running!
He has an honest answer for every question that's posed to him. HE HAS
INTEGRITY!!! Wake up, everyone – if you can't see it, you need to take another
look. He has values and morals and is by far the best candidate out there!
He's a great leader and can beat either Hillary or Obama in any debate!
GO MITT!!!

Nathan   February 3rd, 2008 9:30 pm ET

The fact that Romney has his own money makes him very attractive to anyone with sense. He doesn't need the presidency; he is not a career politician. He is truly independent of special interests because he doesn't take $2000 "campaign contributions" from dishwashers. The comments that claim he is "buying" votes are pure nonsense and clearly just venom from people who hate success and successful people (there must be liberals in the house).

chris   February 3rd, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Go McCain!

nonrepub voter!

klay   February 3rd, 2008 9:00 pm ET

I know that there are a lot of good, solid conservatives who have supported Huckabee. If you're one of them, please consider supporting Romney instead. I know you don't think Romney is a true conservative, but I believe his conversion on the abortion issue is genuine, he'll appoint good conservative judges, secure the borders, be great on the economy and taxes. And it is undeniable that Romney is far more conservative than McCain. Huckabee is not a bad guy, but there is no realistic possiblity he'll win the nomination. Romney really is the most conservative candidate who has a shot. If you're worried about Romney's mormonism, please note that Mormons are among the most dependable Republicans in the nation. Remember, Bill Clinton came in THIRD in Utah in 1992.

Chris   February 3rd, 2008 9:00 pm ET

Yea Romney, I agree. Conservatives will vote for the only true conservative left…Mike Huckabee. You are more liberal than McCain. Wake up people!!

Romney's a fake   February 3rd, 2008 8:52 pm ET

Romney's voting record makes McCain's look extremely conservative…I guess money talks and can fool an electorate.

Earllee   February 3rd, 2008 8:51 pm ET

I'm confused. Many here say Romney is gonna fix the economy. Can anybody out there give me some specifics on how? If so, please relate it to how the economy got broken so I can understand why Romney is the one to best fix it. Ron Paul gives his answer to this question and it makes sense, so I just want to understand Romney's solution so I can weigh the two and make my best informed decision on who to vote for.

magyart   February 3rd, 2008 8:49 pm ET

McCain & Obama both want amnesty for illegal aliens. Hillary will give them all immediate, legal status, if she is elected.

m. stanford   February 3rd, 2008 8:44 pm ET

Mitt Romney has the knowledge and experience to help the economy in the future, help create jobs, help citizens achieve universal health care, and solve the immigration problem. John McCain does not have these skills. In addition, he is too old and has had too many health challenges to truly endure the work load and level of stress that of the office of President. will need at this time. We are also talking about a man that took great pride in poor academic performance at the Naval Academy! His "misinformation" efforts are also irritating—-especially his efforts to frame a viewpoint for Romney on Iraq which was obviously untrue. I hope that the voters were paying attention to the Republican Debate from California! If they were, responsible citizens won't vote for him!

Eddie, Chicago Il   February 3rd, 2008 8:43 pm ET

On the GOP side I think Romney is the best candidate. McCain can have his "100 years in Iraq" (not that he'll live to see 95% of it) and choke on it. Listening to both of them talk about the economy is like listening to a professor and a 5 year old talk about the Industrial Revolution. One clearly has no idea what's going on while the other at least has a grasp. I don't even get how McCain became a front runner to begin with. The first time or the second. This is the guy who lost to Bush in 2000 and then basically followed him around like a puppy for the next 8 years backing up some of his worst decisions over and over while the country was saying enough is enough. I'm a pretty liberal Democrat and voting for Obama but if we don't get the general election at all I'd at least like to see a Republican President who isn't going to make things even worse. Out of Romney, Huckabee, Paul, and McCain. The latter is clearly the one most likely to steer this country in the wrong direction and then drive it over a cliff.

ACitizen   February 3rd, 2008 8:11 pm ET

If you want change in this country, don't elect McCain. He's a RINO just like George W. Bush. You want some more of this type of administration messing up the country? Then run out and elected a guy that is Left playing like a moderate. Want a guy that will sign off on anything the Democrats put in front of him? No true Republican would vote for a party traitor like McCain. RINO is too nice to describe him.

McCain is a Liberal, his voting record proves it. His coziness with the Democrats prove it.

Lastly, he's has a foul mouth like a sailor and spews racial slurs like "tar baby" and calls his fellow Republicans "racist" when they didn't vote for Bush's Amnesty Bill that McCain worked so hard on pushing around the Senate.

Yea, that's the type of leader I want, one that will curse you when you don't agree with him.

Steve, Cedar Rapids, Iowa   February 3rd, 2008 8:10 pm ET

Look at some of Senator McCain's endorsements. These guys mentioned here are all right winger zealots. That should help win the independent vote! lol .It is so simple, if you want more of the same then vote for McCain.If you want change and don't want more right wingers on the Supreme Court , vote for the Democratic nominee. I predict if Senator McCain would win we will be at war with Iran soon after. They would be about the only ones left, we are at war with just about everyone now.

Stevo   February 3rd, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Romney is the best candidate for restoring America's international image because he speaks fluent French, is confident but not arrogant, and because of his hair–people in Europe respect the hair. Go Romney!

John McDonald   February 3rd, 2008 8:07 pm ET

I turned against McCain in a major way when he was critical of Romney for doing things for profit and laying people off. Sen. McCain fails to fully appreciate he is running for president of the USA not the USSR. Our country has always been for the free market. The USSR stood for common ownership, no profit motives, full employment … and where did it get the USSR, nothing but grinding poverty. Profit and laying off workers to free them up to contribute to more profitable enterprise is one of the greatest things about America.

swdreamer   February 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

THANKS MAINE, for your support for Mitt Romney. Could it be the polls

are TRULY ALOT OF HOT AIR?

OUR barber shop loves Mitt, and we are working
people. I talk to all our clients and do my own little poll…..
seems most folks we see are going for Romney!!

Thomas   February 3rd, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Romney is the most qualified candidate to lead our nation through the multitude of problems we currently face. Don't buy into McHuckaCain's hype–Romney is a true conservative with grounded principles who can fix broken Washington. Romney '08!

Gerald   February 3rd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

The winning ticket would be a Clinton/McCain or Obama/McCain. If the Dems can convince McCain to actually run with the party of his true phliosphy, they might be able to take this thing.

As far as the Rep party goes, the only conservative candiate that has a chance is Romney. I liked Ron Paul but like Huckbee, the has really weird (not workable in one step for sure) ideas about the economy and that is likely to be the MAJOR issue of the next 3 years.

Daniel   February 3rd, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Jil from California – unfortunately you are wrong. Romney has given us many reasons to vote for him. He has not been on the attack as you say. If his opponents consider his ads attack ads then that is sad for them, because he is talking about their abysmal records compared with his good record. So don't say he is just saying why we shouldn't vote for another candidate. He doesn't have to do that, we have all seen McCain's blatant lies with our own eyes, and Huckabee is as transparent as they get. Romney has a good plan for the economy, he is strong on illegal immigration and on many other issues. So Jil, trust me, those of us who are supporting Romney know why we are, and the anti-McAmnesty part is a very small part of it.

Jeff   February 3rd, 2008 7:27 pm ET

A vote for Huckabee is a vote for McCain and his liberal friends. Vote ROMNEY!

xine   February 3rd, 2008 7:23 pm ET

Go Mitt!!

David   February 3rd, 2008 7:18 pm ET

A VOTE FOR HUCKABEE IS A VOTE FOR ROMNEY!!!!

McCain doesn't have a shot at the General election. Romney is the best Republican to win the Presidency.

A VOTE FOR MCCAIN IS A VOTE FOR HILLARY/OBAMA!!!

john   February 3rd, 2008 7:11 pm ET

I hope romney spends all his money on this campaign and is broke. I will NEVER vote for mr. corporation.

Tim   February 3rd, 2008 7:01 pm ET

If Mitt were not so arrogant, he would have had his people talk to Huck’s people.
A Romney/Huckabee team would shut out McCain. Everything is possible in politics.

I know Huckabee is mad at Mitt for going nuclear on him in Iowa. I fear that if Mitt and Huck do not talk, Super Tuesday will be the beginning of the end for Mitt, the end for Huck and the nomination for McCain.

Tabitha   February 3rd, 2008 6:11 pm ET

A vote for Romney is a vote for the Democrats in the general election. The man is unelectable… an ABC poll is out today with Romney losing to Obama by 25 points.

Dan   February 3rd, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Congrats on winning the Maine vote with 52% of the vote. Hopefully, America has woken up and they will vote for the man who can fix our economy. He is our only hope!

Romney 08!

Love4Country   February 3rd, 2008 6:04 pm ET

GO Mike Huckabee!!! My vote counts and I am not throwing it away. I am voting for who I believe will make the best president. This is not stratagy or pulling votes one way or another. It is simply casting a vote not in favor of one party or the other, but for the one candidate who I think will serve ALL American people the best. Thank God we live in a free country where we can vote and have a voice. And even if I'm in the minority, I still and thankful I have my one vote and my freedom to make my own choice.

Collin   February 3rd, 2008 6:00 pm ET

I wouldn't say Romney is any more conservative than McCain.

Lindy J.   February 3rd, 2008 5:46 pm ET

GO MITT ROMNEY….and to McCain, "liar liar pants on fire." Oh yes, but I forgot you are everyone's HERO…….so integrity which is a part of being a hero excuses the fact that it is o.k. to lie to the American people. Duh—–I am so confused.
Go Mitt–you have integrity and true grit!!!!!

wes   February 3rd, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Mitt is smart enough to know that most Americans don't educate themselves on candidates and vote on name recognition or looks. What most people never hear is that he is a liar…about many things. Look it up.
Why do we want another Bush in the white house? He lied over 900 times to the American people to start an undeclared war. Are people just stupid or do they refuse to believe that Ron Paul is the only person that will actually bring something new to the white house. He is honest, intelligent, and will help the country control the insane spending that is going on. Wake up! Do some research.

Juan Carlos(Vegas)   February 3rd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Thank God Romney is not going to be the GOP candidate. PHONY

30%er   February 3rd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

SHAWN,, re read the disclaimer at the bottom of the page,, this is cnn's site and there rules. the moderator decides what goes to post not you OR me . If you want that kind of power then start your own website or be happy when your comments do post. believe me friend , when I say you will be suspended from posting if you continue to yell at the moderator,, I ve been there and I learned,,,

McCain a RISK   February 3rd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

McCain is a wildcard.

I feel sorry for the abuse he suffered as a prisoner of war,

But I think Romney needs a second look

He's Mormon – So what!

Brian, College Park, MD   February 3rd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Anyone who is willing to spend millions of his own money just to be in power can't be trusted…

Obama 08!!!

30%er   February 3rd, 2008 4:51 pm ET

don't (mis) underestimate us conservatives . when it counts we will pull it together. Unlike the liberals, conservatives have a base of core beliefs that does not stray all over the political map, there simple and easy to live with. thats why we are mistaken as the dumb % when in reality we are the % that the nation falls back on in times of crisis and hardtimes because of our optimistic nature and our strength to face any problem without fear or compromise. We believe in the constitution as it is written by our forefathers, not as it is interpreted by those in positions of authority or power or by popular oppinion. This you can bet on,,, A real conservative does not see McCain as a conservative,, but,, He does have an "R" in front of his name in this election,, and left with the choice of either McCain or Clinton there will be an on slaught of pressure on McCain in the likes of which he has not seen before by the conservatives and republicans as a whole to be the candidate of the entire republican party , not just the centrist part.

hef   February 3rd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Gee, could it be that most Americans that vote Republican are narrow-minded and deserve awful candidates like codger McCain and snake-oil salesman Romney? Or how about evolution denier Huckabee?

Brilliant, guys! Keep it up. You're all terribly unenlightened.

Adam   February 3rd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

McCain is to freaking old, honestly people get a grip and realize that he will be too old to do anything. He is just too old.

JO   February 3rd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Jake …better go back to school and learn to spell …..
Go Mitt !!

Julie   February 3rd, 2008 4:45 pm ET

John McCain… What will he lie about the next time? Immigration? Oh wait he already has…

McCain on immigration
Voted on Senate floor in favor of guestworker-amnesty bill by voting in favor of cloture motion to end debate and bring bill to a vote in 2007

Ryan   February 3rd, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Ron Paul = the only viable Republican candidate.

S. Hunt   February 3rd, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Romney is stronger on the economy, we need the economy fixed. Romney has not said we will be in Iraq for another hundred years.

Julie   February 3rd, 2008 4:44 pm ET

NO ONE HAD FLIP-FLOPPED MORE THAN JOHN McCAIN

McCain has flipped flopped on being a Democrat or a Republican.
McCain has flipped flopped on TAXES ( many times back & fourth!).
McCain has flipped flopped and "Amnesty for illegal's".
McCain has flipped flopped on Pro-Life issues.
McCain has flipped flopped on religion. ( He said they were agents of intolerance!)

and numerous other large flip flops…………..

PLUS; he was proven to have just plain "lied" last week and multiple claims he has made.

BM   February 3rd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

The candidate the Democrats are most afraid of is…former Gov. of Arkansas Mike Huckabee. Go Mike!!

McAmnesty   February 3rd, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Living in Southern California illegal immigration hits home real hard. I have had some very unfortunate experiences with illegal aliens. Those who have said to me that illegal immigration is not a big issue for them, I just think, " you havnt had a bad experience yet". There are only 2 conservatives running in this race. DONT WASTE A VOTE. VOTE ROMNEY!!!!

Roger from MA   February 3rd, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Also, no evangelical, Christian, social conservative will ever vote for a member of that moon cult known as Mormonism — especially not one who supported gay marriages and abortion., Period

Roger from MA   February 3rd, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Mr. Romney, you aren't a conservative either and you know it! You supported socialized medicine and abortions, and stood neutral on the topic of homosexual marriage, when you were governor.

Stop trying to paint the sky green.

McAmnesty   February 3rd, 2008 4:28 pm ET

As conservatives, we have a choice. We can vote for Romney or Huckleberry. Romney is our only chance at conservatism. Hillary Rhodam, barrack husein, and mcAmnesty represent a liberal road we dont want to go down.

JT Smith   February 3rd, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I've always voted Democratic. But, this time I am leaning toward Romney IF he wins the pimaries

chris b., CA   February 3rd, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Will the GOP survive such bitter attacks and primary squabbles? Both Romney and McCain have spent so much time berating each other, that the Democrats won't have far to look for negative ad fodder in the general election. McCain is the only chance that the GOP has in beating out the Dems this next term, and it still isn't a very good one. America isn't going more conservative, it is waking up from the past failings of a lame duck president – one who's policies have damaged this country almost irreparably. Regardless of who wins the ticket, it will be an uphill battle for anyone who stems from the ideology that got America into this quagmire. Keep dreaming, G.O.P. – your base is deteriorating and your policies have been proven inept.

Katy Hill Prescott Az.   February 3rd, 2008 4:26 pm ET

If Rush Limbaugh and Laura Ingram with their hate and venom are the kind of people Mitt Romney wants backing him then this country is invery serious trouble if he gets elected.

delquattro   February 3rd, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Romney hasn't contributed as much as Corzine did to his own campaign. Corzine bought his governorship, but you probably didn't notice that. Meanwhile, Romney has raised more contributions than any other Republican.

nolan   February 3rd, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Jake: We are all now dumber for having read your comments. Its not whether he has magical underware or not, its whether they work. We Definately need
something to help this screwed up country!

McAmnesty   February 3rd, 2008 4:23 pm ET

A vote for Huckleberry is a vote for McCain.

kenny-boy (GA)   February 3rd, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Romney is a pretty-boy, hes too pretty to be president.
Might mess his hair up.
He ain't gettin my vote.

Clinton Fatigue already   February 3rd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

So all you you geniuses hammering Romney probably have NO PROBLEM with your Queen taking huge amounts of money from lobbyists (and crooked as hell Chineese donaters…. sounds familiar) but think Romney is the bad guy?

Makes sense, someone who is running on the lone principle that he could help the country while using his own capitalistic EARNED money is the bad guy while a lobbyist OWNED candidate is the greatest thing in the world.

Congratulations Hill Billy's, you have succeeded in completing the dumbing down of America (that you and you alone STARTED).

Are you aware that Romney took no salary as Governor and is the ONLY candidate that WILL NOT as President?

Yep, he has money as do the rest, but he puts his where his mouth and ideas are.

Henry   February 3rd, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Huck supporters have to get behind Mitt or the republican party will be handed over to liberal McCain and the mainstream media. I'm for a Romney / Huckabee ticket.

Tom, Las Vegas   February 3rd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

COLLECTIVE WILL – what is your deal, do you have something against success or are you looking for a bigger welfare check. Perhaps you are a lobbyist and are upset that YOU can buy your what you want once Romney gets in?

There is nothing wrong with using your resources to seek higher goals and the greater good, which is what Romney wants to do for this country.
Instead of your lame slogan how about – Vote for Romney, He is intelligent, not beholding to special interests/lobbyist, and has a proven record for success in EVERYTHING He has undertaken during his life and wants to make this country great and respected in the eyes of the world again. Lets get back to where we were, where we need to be, where we MUST be….Strong, Secure, and Leading by Example.

L Sandoval   February 3rd, 2008 2:00 pm ET

It appears Huckabee has been in McCain's pocket from the get go. Why isn't Huckabee targeting the front runner. He wants a job and is counting on McCain to win. I can't trust anything coming out of Huckabee's or Mc Cain's mouth. Romney gets my vote.

Joseph   February 3rd, 2008 1:57 pm ET

I'm sure Huckabee is an intelligent and amiable individual but it would be nice if he could ever demonstrate either of those qualities on the campaign trail. As a lifelong republican and Arizona native, I am disgusted at the thought of McCain as my president. The man is a louse! Romney, on the other hand is a scrupulous, intelligent, dynamic leader that would truly make a positive difference for our country. Thank goodness for a man like this that is willing to give up his own wealth for a chance to make our country a better place. GO MITT!

Jeff, Huntington Beach, CA   February 3rd, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Romney is a dark cloud over this country… at least as dark as the Bush agenda.
Heaven help us…

Gil - California   February 3rd, 2008 1:51 pm ET

This is the problem with you Mitt, you are banking on the "I'm not McCain" vote. You have attacked the other candidates from day one and have yet to show a compelling reason why someone should vote for you instead of against someone else.

If I were a Republican right now I'd be voting for Huckabee as my "anti McCain". If the choice were you and McCain, I'd vote for McCain as the "anti Mitt" vote.

Of course, if my party picks Hillary over Barack and you were the candidate, then and only then might you get my vote…and that would be my "anti Hillary" vote and that is a terrible way to pick a president. That is also how we got into our mess for the last 8 years. It wasn't so much that Bush won, it was the fact that people voted against Gore and Kerry.

Dee   February 3rd, 2008 1:48 pm ET

All the candidates will pay back the endorsments others have given them.
McCain and Obama already promised a place in the White House to those who endorsted them. If those two get in.I think I'll look for a better place to live.

Independent   February 3rd, 2008 1:47 pm ET

i think mitt is right, and that scares me… the religious conservative right will unite behind Mitt because of people like Coulter and Rush… guess they forgot McCain has a CAREER 100% voting record with regards to being pro-life, and only 3 years ago Romney was running as a pro-choice pro-gay marriage Republican.

Ba Gua   February 3rd, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Romney alligns himself with "conservatives" like Rush Limbaugh. Limbaugh isn't conservative, he's radical, and crazy radical extremist at that. If that's what Romney
likens himself with, we don't need or want it. Period.

Dr. K. Olsen, Hanford, CA   February 3rd, 2008 1:29 pm ET

The ONLY Conservative running in the GOP primary is Ron Paul! The others are all progressive candidates, just like nearly every candidate from either side of the aisle since Teddy Roosevelt! Conservatives should back up Paul if they truly believe in small government, low taxation, fiscal responsibility, personal liberty, and personal responsibility! Romney is just as big a liberal as McCain!

Mike, Fredericksburg, VA   February 3rd, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Romney has taken liberal positions throughout his career, right up until he ran for president. Then he claims to be a conservative. Sorry, I'm not falling for it.

There is a conservative alternative to McCain, and it's not Romney. It's Mike Huckabee. Mike Huckabee has a long, consistent conservative record, but he also brings new ideas, such as the fair tax, to the campaign. And right now, Mike Huckabee is leading Mitt Romney in key southern states.

jake   February 3rd, 2008 1:25 pm ET

mitt is more of the same. He is trying to buy the white house, some one ask him about his magic underware. he is the opidomy of greed.

jake   February 3rd, 2008 1:24 pm ET

mitt is more of the same. He is trying to buy the white house, some one ask him about his magic underware. he is the opidomy of greed.

Jeff, North Dakota   February 3rd, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Hopefully we conservatives can stop Romney as well.

Brittany, TN   February 3rd, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Obama or Clinton will shred Romney or McCain in a debate. Too bad the Republican elites and talk show hosts are so ignorant that only Huckabee can stand his ground in a debate and out-wit either of them

shawn   February 3rd, 2008 1:21 pm ET

CNN,
Why won't you post my comments. I have had 6 comments that I attempted to post since last week. Not one of them has been posted? Where is the coverage of Romney winning Maine? Your bias is turning me off from your coverage. Your bias is very apparent.

jim   February 3rd, 2008 1:19 pm ET

McCain shares views with the Democrats on taxes, immigration, gay marriage and just about everything execpt he wants to stay in Iraq forever. Romney will fix our economy. Vote for Romney.

SeeRightThruYou   February 3rd, 2008 1:18 pm ET

What an idiot.

ILoveAmerica   February 3rd, 2008 1:18 pm ET

If Rush Limbaugh wants Mitt for President – well, that settles it!

- On the other hand, I once saw a book that was actually entitled, "Rush Limbaugh Is A Big Fat Idiot." And I've never seen any book that said he was NOT a big fat idiot – so maybe it's true.

Renaisauce   February 3rd, 2008 1:16 pm ET

I wish people would stop presuming that money buys votes. A person could buy all the ads and the world and never get a vote if the candidate isn't legit. Romney is spending a lot because he needs to get his message out in a party where the establishment is entrenched behind a candidate (who happens to be a REALLY bad idea for a candidate). I don't blame him for spending. I kind of wish he would spend more. His real message needs to get out before unwarrented hype guides people in the wrong direction.

Kris K.   February 3rd, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Mitt Romney has spurred our ecomony and is doing what a lot of viable candidates would like to do but don't have the funds to do it. He has put his money on the line for what he believes in. That is the American spirit at work. To listen to the Clinton's and McCranky today the election is over and they will be the winners. Don't you find that insulting to the voting public? Our votes don't count. You want a leader who discounts you up front? In your face? The American public needs to stand up and make their vote count. McCain and the Clinton's don't know what is best for me. THEY HAVE A LOT OF NERVE. Vote for a fresh face and a new direction on Tuesday and beyond.

True Conservative   February 3rd, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Ok COLLECTIVE WILL, I give up, are you John McCain or your future running mate Mike Huckabee?

Evangelicals for Obama   February 3rd, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Who would put $35 million of his own money down without expecting to get it back somehow?? If he is "donating" it than he is stupid and not worth being elected….

He knows he is getting his money back once he starts bowing to lobbyists and corporations!

McLiberal   February 3rd, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Would mccain support the war, tax cuts? Hillary supported the invasion and the surge too, that doesnt make her a conservative!

McLiberal   February 3rd, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Mccain's not a "closet liberal", he is a liberal period. At least he is investing his own money that shows commitment. And since when is "profit" a curse word? Mccain has successfully adopted liberal lingo. Talk about double speak; Mccain wouldn't support his own mccain/kennedy bill? So that begs the question: would he support mccain/feingold, or mccain lieberman? Romney's accomplished something in his life and run companies that employ people. Ohhhhhhh, don't forget that dirty word, he made a "profit" for his company, oh how terrible. I wonder how government can run the military if the govt. tanks? By the way Mitt has RAISED more money than any candidate.

REM   February 3rd, 2008 1:04 pm ET

While you were talking, Romney has won another state Maine. It seems to me that if Romney will win another state over 50% of the vote. That is a power message and says a lot for the man appeal with in this country.
Wyoming 67% Nevada 51% and now Maine 52%.
He has also taken michigan, and in the races that he had taken second. those were very close. If it wasn't Florida's winner takes all we would be hearing a different tune in the media.

anonymous   February 3rd, 2008 1:02 pm ET

If I was of the mind I'd cross over and vote for Willard his Mr. Rich persona will be much easier for any Democrat to beat.

J obx   February 3rd, 2008 1:00 pm ET

John McCain a Conserative,he should be running as Hillary Clintons Vice Presidential running mate.Mitt Romney is the conserative,people dont like him because he actually made millions with his own hard work and intelligence.
STOP JOHN McCAIN,A VOTE FOR HUCKBEE IS A VOTE FOR McCAIN.

Ginny CA   February 3rd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

I am a staunch Hillary supporter but if she doesn't take the nomination, I will vote for Romney. If Romney doesn't get the nomination, I will have to sit out the election for the first time in my life. I simply can't vote for McCain. He scares me with his unyielding support of Bush and the war.

Conservative4Life, USA   February 3rd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

McCain is WRONG About the Middle East

I keep hearing McCain say one thing over and over that is patently untrue and underscores how he is so wrong about the Middle East. Here's the problem. McCain fundamentally does not understand the type of war that is going on in the Middle East, nor does he understand how America's presence there is perceived.

In his own words: "…It's not American presence, it's American casualties. We have American troops all over the world today and nobody complains about it because we're defending freedom." (NYT January 24, 2008 Republican Debate)

McCain, you are wrong – it IS about our presence there! It has always been about our presence there!!! This isn't Japan or Germany who welcomed us there as liberators. What McCain fails to understand is this: we're not dealing with people who think like us. We're not dealing with people who can be appeased with money or concessions. The minute we step foot in the Middle East, we're on their turf. And to them, it's not only personal, it's religious! The sooner we can bring about stability in Iraq the better, because we need to be out of there the very next day, NOT IN 100 YEARS!!! Anyone else that thinks otherwise does not understand the region at all! The only thing McCain understands is that we need to win at all cost there. Well, it's the "at all cost" that is going to be his undoing, and ours if we let him.

Anonymous   February 3rd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

McCain would split up the party…Romney is our man for the White House!

Robert   February 3rd, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Romney is the most qualified candidate, and he is right on almost every issue.

Romney '08!

MS   February 3rd, 2008 12:51 pm ET

The Republican establishment has decided to sacrifice this election to keep the status quo. It just needs a sacrificial goat for Nov. 4. It doesn't matter if it is you or McCain.

Regarding Rush Limbaugh, half of his brain is tied behind his back and the other half in front is completely exhausted. He doesn't realize that he needs to rotate it once in a while. As far as Ann Coulter is concerned, there is not much to say about her with her choice of Hillary. I rest my case.

Griff   February 3rd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

The fact of the matter is Romney would have already been long gone from this race if not for his personal wealth just as anyone else would have been that did not have a long-term politcal career or was a current office holder. Having said that I am thankful this man is willing to put his money where his mouth is. It the only way a regular person can compete in politics today. He is guilty of nothing but leveling the playing field against the established GOP candidates. I sincerely believe this man wants to do something for this country. He is without a doubt the most intelligent candidate of either party. Hopefully he can stall McCain's quest for the nomination at least long enough for everyone to sort through all of the media spin to make an informed choice. We all owe it to ourselves and our families to slow this process down…call a time out, and regroup so that whomever we choose we will not have any regrets. A few weeks ago I wasn't looking at Romney simply because I knew too little about him. Today he has my support at least in the primary where I will be voting Tuesday so I can see this play out a little longer. I hope many others will join me in at least trying to keep from being manipulated by a bunch of stuffed shirts in the media.

Big Bucks   February 3rd, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Go Mc Cain or will still be stuck with NCLB. That's "No Clinton Left Behind"

Hey Mitt, it's not the "Mormon"; it's the "moron". If you ever took a stance and stuck to it, we might even vote for you. Here's a ticket for you. Romney and Ron Paul, done nothing, going nowhere.

Harvey, Tampa, FL   February 3rd, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Hey Collective,

Care to tell me which of the candidates isn't rich? Get past the wealth of all these people running for office and take a genuine look at their messages. Read their body language, sense their honesty, get a feel for what they'll be like as president, and don't blindly judge on the money they've made or raised. Their wealth really won't matter much when they're running the country.

whatsitToyou   February 3rd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

I look at it this way, if he is using his own money, that means he isn't going to have to do a whole bunch of favors for people like McCain will! and obviously he cares about this country, if he didnt he would not spend his money on becoming president he would be far better off without!

Brian Williams   February 3rd, 2008 12:42 pm ET

McCain can can say that Romney has been flip-flopping, but we can actually listen to McCain in two different interviews a week apart and giving two different answers to the same question. At least with Clinton you know what you are getting. And so what if Romney is rich and is paying for his campaign wrong? Do we live in a country where people aspire to be poor?

William   February 3rd, 2008 12:36 pm ET

I understand that some people are jealous of Romney’s success as a businessperson. Romney has earned his wealth with his brain, and that is why he is the most qualified candidate for presidency.

Dave, Harrisburg   February 3rd, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Dan – When Senator McCain has a 20 year record in the Senate it's easy to find enough votes to support any claim. At least McCain has been a consistent leader on many issues. Romney has changed his position so much everyone could like him!

Ryan   February 3rd, 2008 12:33 pm ET

Huckabee is not a viable candidate. He must get out soon to coalesce conservatives and prevent McCain from winning the nomiation with only 1/3 of republican support in each primary. McCain will be slaughtered by Hillary/Obama – he is one of them. Romney is the only real conservative alternative to the Dems.

Jose Card - Independent   February 3rd, 2008 12:33 pm ET

No matter what Romney said about McCain, I will vote for a candidate who has a broad base of support from the voters across the party lines.

A McCain/Romney ticket would be very attractive to me, though.

Paul Thompson   February 3rd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Romney has lost….and is grasping at anything to stay in this race.

I can't believe anybody would support him after he declared this a two-man race,
it's on youtube you can hear an actual call made to a voter with Mitt's voice.

Who is he to determine who is still in this…I agree with Huckabee and have said that Romney…if he truly cared for this country and thinks McCain is bad for the Republician party would get out and let Huck have his chance.

Huckabee's strategy has always been to win in the Southern states, Mitt's was to win the early primaries. Mitt is a sore loser and if you ask me is paying bloggers to put his pandering up on websites. Look at how Hannity said that Huckabee had pulled out of Florida. What's that about?

And why did the media kill the story, when two whispers are heard at the Florida debate and Mitt's answer was exactly the same?

Nancy   February 3rd, 2008 12:29 pm ET

We have had John McCann around long enough to know he is NOT the right guy. If you vote for McCann we will be in Iraq for eternity.

Eric   February 3rd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

"Old man" McCain is not an inspiring figure in my opinion. I too might have to vote Democrat if he gets the nomination.

Tom Wittmann   February 3rd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

The extremist right wingers in the GOP, which auto-designated themselves as the
"base" are not more then 10-15% of the party, even without considering the Republican voting independents.

They must accept that they will be ostracized, as the Ultra-left "base" of the British Labor party was by Tony Blair was, and this attracted there both the independent
and many Tory voters. Since then, and for many years, the previously collapsing
Labor party governs!

TOM

COLLECTIVE WILL   February 3rd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Romney's other slogan… "I'LL BUY YOUR SUPPORT"

Dan, Boston, MA   February 3rd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Romney is right. McCain is a closet liberal. Every part of his senate record, except the war, proves it. Pro-amnesty, against tax-cuts, etc.

Romney was an amazing governor and a truly good man.

Go Romney!

COLLECTIVE WILL   February 3rd, 2008 12:18 pm ET

DISPOSABLE INCOME… Romney slogan should be "VOTE FOR ME, I'M RICH"

COLLECTIVE WILL   February 3rd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

ROMNEY CAN DISPOSE HIS OWN MONEY… WHY RAISE SUPPORT AND FUNDS??

David, Oregon City   February 3rd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Thank you, conservative elite media commentators and talk show hosts, for splitting the Republican ticket by your continual slandering of Huckabee and Paul supporters. You didn’t get your guy so you trashed everybody else. The Republicans will not get those voters back in time for the primary election. Can you say G. Ford, B. Dole and H. Bush? Please be aware that you are not that smart. You just turned off the conservative base and their donations.

Thank you for putting a Democrat in the White House in 2009 or McKennedy!

COLLECTIVE WILL   February 3rd, 2008 12:10 pm ET

HOW MANY VOTES DOES A MILLION DOLLARS BUY… OOPS I MEANT GET

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