[jersey117]

Why are so many people reluctant to endorse Newt?

Because they don't think he can win the big delegate states. Putting anti-Romney sentiments aside, I think it's pretty crummy what Newt did. Over the weekend he all but declared Romney the candidate. It's like he waited for Santorum to drop out so he could get back in the game.

[Cringing Negativism Network]

I’m not so sure Newt’s comments about Romney were counter-productive.

In response, Romney stated he has been speaking with Gingrich (not saying the same about Santorum).

This may have caused Santorum to suddenly realize there was no chance whatsoever, Romney if he wins the nomination, would decide on Santorum as running mate.

Which seems to have been part of what Santorum was trying for.

Result: Now it’s “game on” mano-a-mano.

Gingrich is clearly the underdog now, but at least it’s clear now who to support. Finally we can stop fighting each other.

Santorum needs to join with Newt. Clearly. Publicly. Now.

[moonhawk]

Actually, what’s “crummy” is what Rick did.
e had stayed in, he and Newt and even Ron may have had enough delegates combined from stopping Romney before Tampa.

[Lauren BaRecall]

Rick's family was a primary concern that influenced his decision to suspend his campaign, but IMO, it wasn't the only one. There were a couple of times that Newt's people floated balloons about the possibility of forming a coalition with Santorum. One of these balloons was floated recently. There were threads on FR about it both times, and the majority of posts were very favorable. Most of us were not only open to it, we were starting to anticipate it with excitement. A coalition would be the best resolution many thought, and one we could get behind with enthusiasm.

It was a resolution that was realistic. Newt and Rick were friendly with each other, and Rick had also said publicly that he would definitely consider Newt as his running mate.

The next thing that happened was talk about Newt's meeting with Romney, followed by Newt's weekend comments concerning Romney's being the most likely candidate.

Now what is wrong with this picture so far? IMO (and I very well may be wrong - only time and leaks will tell), Newt decided not to back Santorum and/or form a coalition with him, and Newt's Romney remarks are a reflection of that decision.

Furthermore, I think Newt's stance became a significant factor which contributed to Santorum’s decision to suspend. And to add insult to injury, once Santorum dropped out, Newt made moves to get his campaign going again.

Stuff about this will be leaked. It's only a matter of time. I will stand corrected and make a statement saying so, if I'm wrong.

It's a shame that a coalition never happened. IMO, many of us were hoping for it.