Rick not only bettered Newt in each of the 1st 2 states, but it turns out that he actually beat everyone in Iowa.
It should hurt him, if for no other reason than his insufferable arrogance. It's a pattern with Newt---he makes some ill-advised comment like this, on the tail of the "Armageddon" one, which followed his assurance that he would be the Republican nominee.
There are things I respect about Newt, namely his intelligence and somewhat ingenious mind, but I also consider him petty and high-handed. Strong debate performances(he is brilliant) aren't enough to gain my confidence.
I wish we could shake all of these candidates up in a bag---we might come out with someone compelling. Right now, I can't wholeheartedly back any of them, although I can say I have more respect for Santorum than the others. He's a weak candidate, but I do think he has mostly stayed above the fray.
Regardless of the eventual nominee--and I'll support him-- that person is going to have to wise up and develop a fire-proof hide. I'm not in the camp that believes it will be a cakewalk against Obama. In an ideal world, any of our candidates could best this miserable President, but he will continue to have the media on his side. It will work around the clock, just like in 2008, to weaken our candidate in voters' minds. It's going to be a very tough and bloody race.