TCRLAF is right.
If Mitt Romney doesn't get stopped in South Carolina, we're in major trouble. It seems clear that Rick Perry, Newt Gingrich, and Rick Santorum are all hoping South Carolina will make them the anti-Romney standard-bearer.
That may still happen.
If it doesn't, we're looking at a likely Romney win in Florida, with the momentum moving toward a Super Tuesday that could make it difficult if not impossible to stop him.
It is no secret that I have major concerns about all three of the remaining “not-Romneys.” However, I have much greater concerns about the split vote between the three getting Romney nominated and then defeated by President Obama.
We need to deal with this mess.
NOW.
Next week (the SC vote) may not be too late. Next month may very well be.
I have a funny feeling that you’re right and nobody will drop out until South Carolina is over. Florida could end up being very different, though, especially if endorsements are in play.
But will it be too late by then?
I think people can hold off on dropping out until SC.
But, they need to drop out immediately after SC if they are not in the top three. That would mean Huntsman and Perry for sure if the latest polling is correct.
However, mathematically, even if that’s right and those two drop out, Romney is still on top with both Gingrich and Santorum in the race because of Paul. Paul will never drop out.
So, after SC we really need Gingrich or Santorum, whomever comes out with the least votes, to drop out.
I am almost sure neither will because they will say it’s still early. Gingrich flat has too much pride to drop out probably until it’s too late.
Nominee will then be Mitt Romney unfortunately.