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Florida primary campaign: Romney up, Gingrich down - live Florida primary campaign: Romney up, Gingrich down - live
(40 minutes later)
4.53pm: More on that George Soros interview by Chrystia Freeland in Davos a few days agao, which has now hit the headlines thanks to Newt Gingrich using it as a stick to beat Mitt Romney.
Here's what Soros actually said:
Chrystia Freeland: I'd like to turn now, if we may, to the United States, where politics and the economy are also quite volatile. You were a very early supporter of President Barack Obama. What report card do you give him now?
George Soros: Well, look, either you'll have an extremist conservative, be it Gingrich or Santorum, in which case I think it will make a big difference which of the two comes in. If it's between Obama and Romney, there isn't all that much difference except for the crowd that they bring with them. And that's not very encouraging on either side because Obama's administration is a bit exhausted — a lot of the talent has left — and the Republicans would have to, or a Republican candidate would have to, bring in probably an extremist vice-president.
In fact, in his next answer Soros went on to agree that there is a big difference between Obama and all the Republicans, including Romney, over tax levels.
4.38pm: Despite being two hours late to his event in Tampa this afternoon – during which time I got to see Bret Baier of Fox News's extraordinary tan (he looks like he's been dipped whole in caramel) close-up – Newt still managed to give a tub-thumping speech which dispels any idea that he's running out of steam.
He proceeded to throw the kitchen sink at Mitt Romney, along with a granite kitchen top and maybe an oven during a later interview with CNN at the venue.
Gingrich denounced the avalanche of Romney attack ads – "They've now spent seventeen and a half million dollars on falsehoods" – before seizing on help from an unlikely quarter: George Soros. Yes, George Soros, Republican America's bête noire, as well its bête rouge and probably its bête jaune and bête pourpre.
Soros gave an interview last week to the awesome Chrystia Freeland of Reuters, in which Soros said there was no difference between Obama or Romney, whereas a conservative like Gingrich would make a difference.
"George Soros is right: I would bring real change, and that's why Mitt Romney and Liberals are really scared," Gingrich said.
When a supporter held up a poster showing stylised images of Obama and Romney, reading "Make no mistake - Romneycare is Obamacare," Gingrich seized on that too, demanding that the supporter post the image on the internet and sell it. "If you put this online I'll sign it right now," Gingrich said. "Callista and I are signing this," he followed up, "Do not put this on eBay!"
Newt smiled in triump. "I love creativity – that's another difference between Mitt Romney and me."
Later, Gingrich wound up with a call to arms, listing all the ways his supporters could help him: "We need you Twittering if that's what you do ... but to show I'm old fashioned I also need you to talk to people face to face." And with that and some handshakes, he was off.
At that point I managed to get my hands on a "Newt 2012" t-shirt for research purposes. And guess what: the label reads "Hecho en Honduras" as well as "Importado a Mexico".
4.10pm: Newt Gingrich has mentioned Ronald Reagan 61 times in 19 debates, but has been criticised for over-stating his connections to the Republicans' favourite former president. Today, one of Reagan's sons has been campaigning with Gingrich in an attempt to bolster his Reaganite credentials. Alhtough Richard Adams finds that Reagan Jnr doesn't appear to have the common touch enjoyed by his father.4.10pm: Newt Gingrich has mentioned Ronald Reagan 61 times in 19 debates, but has been criticised for over-stating his connections to the Republicans' favourite former president. Today, one of Reagan's sons has been campaigning with Gingrich in an attempt to bolster his Reaganite credentials. Alhtough Richard Adams finds that Reagan Jnr doesn't appear to have the common touch enjoyed by his father.
After waiting patiently in an aircraft hangar for nearly two hours – while at one point the candidate gave a TV interview backstage – Newt Gingrich's supporters were rewarded with speeches from Michael Reagan, eldest son of St Ronald, as well as Herman Cain and the Newtster himself.After waiting patiently in an aircraft hangar for nearly two hours – while at one point the candidate gave a TV interview backstage – Newt Gingrich's supporters were rewarded with speeches from Michael Reagan, eldest son of St Ronald, as well as Herman Cain and the Newtster himself.
"I used to race boats and [company name] in Tampa used to build all my boats," was Reagan's opening gambit in an unconvincing attempt to make a connection with an audience who look like they've not been able to afford to build even one boat."I used to race boats and [company name] in Tampa used to build all my boats," was Reagan's opening gambit in an unconvincing attempt to make a connection with an audience who look like they've not been able to afford to build even one boat.
Reagan wants everyone to know that Gingrich is the real conservative heir of the Reagan era: "The people who are saying he wasn't there, weren't there!"Reagan wants everyone to know that Gingrich is the real conservative heir of the Reagan era: "The people who are saying he wasn't there, weren't there!"
But the real sign of Ronald's legacy, according to Michael, is that if you wake up one day yearning for freedom: "Guess what? You've found Ronald Reagan, he's living in each and every one of you."But the real sign of Ronald's legacy, according to Michael, is that if you wake up one day yearning for freedom: "Guess what? You've found Ronald Reagan, he's living in each and every one of you."
3.58pm: Romney has wrapped up in Dunedin, and Gingrich is done here in Tampa. Here's Adam Gabbatt on Romney's speech.3.58pm: Romney has wrapped up in Dunedin, and Gingrich is done here in Tampa. Here's Adam Gabbatt on Romney's speech.
"With a turnout like this I'm starting to think I might win tomorrow," Romney said as he stepped out into the Florida sunshine here in Dunedin."With a turnout like this I'm starting to think I might win tomorrow," Romney said as he stepped out into the Florida sunshine here in Dunedin.
When the crowd's cheers die down, Romney sticks it to Newt Gingrich again, saying the former speaker had been "flailing around" over recent days in a manner that has been "painful to watch".When the crowd's cheers die down, Romney sticks it to Newt Gingrich again, saying the former speaker had been "flailing around" over recent days in a manner that has been "painful to watch".
Once the Gingrich jibes were over Romney is back on familiar territory. He accuses Obama of being "comfortable with a trillion dollar deficit" and describes – not for the first time – his time in office as "a groundhog-day presidency".Once the Gingrich jibes were over Romney is back on familiar territory. He accuses Obama of being "comfortable with a trillion dollar deficit" and describes – not for the first time – his time in office as "a groundhog-day presidency".
Romney gets a big reaction from the crowd when he criticises Obama for planning to cut military spending, and the boos continue as the former Mass governor riffes on the threats he says are facing he US today. "The world hasn't gotten safer," he says, before struggling a little with his first example of instability. "Looking around the world, you've got North Korea going through a change in leadership with Kim, Kim Jong-il, excuse me, Kil, Kim Jong-un excuse me, taking over from Kim Jong-il."Romney gets a big reaction from the crowd when he criticises Obama for planning to cut military spending, and the boos continue as the former Mass governor riffes on the threats he says are facing he US today. "The world hasn't gotten safer," he says, before struggling a little with his first example of instability. "Looking around the world, you've got North Korea going through a change in leadership with Kim, Kim Jong-il, excuse me, Kil, Kim Jong-un excuse me, taking over from Kim Jong-il."
"It's easy to say these names," Romney adds, to laughter from the crowd. Other threats include China, which wants to "control the South China sea", Pakistan, "which is teetering", and "the Arab spring, with nations deciding if they're gonna become Islamist"."It's easy to say these names," Romney adds, to laughter from the crowd. Other threats include China, which wants to "control the South China sea", Pakistan, "which is teetering", and "the Arab spring, with nations deciding if they're gonna become Islamist".
Van Symmonds, 60, says: "I thought he was great, I hope he makes it. He's presidential. I just like everything about him."Van Symmonds, 60, says: "I thought he was great, I hope he makes it. He's presidential. I just like everything about him."
The former mayor of Dunedin, Manny Koutsourais, 74, is back in town to watch Romney – although he said he's supporting Newt Gingrich. "I think Newt's a little more conservative. A little more experienced. And better able to relate to the American public."The former mayor of Dunedin, Manny Koutsourais, 74, is back in town to watch Romney – although he said he's supporting Newt Gingrich. "I think Newt's a little more conservative. A little more experienced. And better able to relate to the American public."
Koutsourais says Romney was his "second choice", however, adding "anyone but Obama". He adds: "Mitt's a good man, but he's not as conservative. He's a moderate."Koutsourais says Romney was his "second choice", however, adding "anyone but Obama". He adds: "Mitt's a good man, but he's not as conservative. He's a moderate."
3.44pm: While much of the action is here in Tampa today, Karen McVeigh has been speaking to Floridians in the south of the state who have been hit by the collapse in the American housing market. It's a sobering issue – and one, as we saw earlier from that video made by Suzanne Goldenberg, for which politicians don't seem to have satisfactory answers.3.44pm: While much of the action is here in Tampa today, Karen McVeigh has been speaking to Floridians in the south of the state who have been hit by the collapse in the American housing market. It's a sobering issue – and one, as we saw earlier from that video made by Suzanne Goldenberg, for which politicians don't seem to have satisfactory answers.
There are two million homeowners in Florida "under water" – who owe more on their homes than they are worth. That's about the same number of Republicans voting in the primary. It is one of the states hit hardest by the mortgage meltdown, the other being Nevada, where the candidates are heading next.There are two million homeowners in Florida "under water" – who owe more on their homes than they are worth. That's about the same number of Republicans voting in the primary. It is one of the states hit hardest by the mortgage meltdown, the other being Nevada, where the candidates are heading next.
But those Florida homeowners facing foreclosure who I met, don't have much faith in the ability of politicians of any flavour to help them.But those Florida homeowners facing foreclosure who I met, don't have much faith in the ability of politicians of any flavour to help them.
Monica Zapata, a mother of two from Wellington, Florida, who lost her home to foreclosure in 2010, and still suffers anxiety and panic attacks, said: "It should be an election issue but it's not. It's a closed issue, because it's a can of worms."Monica Zapata, a mother of two from Wellington, Florida, who lost her home to foreclosure in 2010, and still suffers anxiety and panic attacks, said: "It should be an election issue but it's not. It's a closed issue, because it's a can of worms."
Gary Thomas, 50, a father of three from Palm Springs whose construction and remodelling business got into trouble in the crash, and is now facing foreclosure, said: "Politicians are doing nothing. The president is a joke on this. The banks got all the money, they got bailed out. They are not even close to helping us out. We are the scourge."Gary Thomas, 50, a father of three from Palm Springs whose construction and remodelling business got into trouble in the crash, and is now facing foreclosure, said: "Politicians are doing nothing. The president is a joke on this. The banks got all the money, they got bailed out. They are not even close to helping us out. We are the scourge."
Attorney David Chandler Hicks, of Alliance Legal Group, who has clients facing foreclosure all over the state said: "There's not a politician out there right now who is willing to help. I haven't heard any Republican candidate say anything of any note about this state or this crisis. It's far too complex for politicians – to say lets go after them would be political suicide. But the banks are guilty on every front."Attorney David Chandler Hicks, of Alliance Legal Group, who has clients facing foreclosure all over the state said: "There's not a politician out there right now who is willing to help. I haven't heard any Republican candidate say anything of any note about this state or this crisis. It's far too complex for politicians – to say lets go after them would be political suicide. But the banks are guilty on every front."
3.32pm: Flip-flopper!3.32pm: Flip-flopper!
Obama has gone from a European-style socialist to crony capitalist within 15 minutes in Mitt's speech.Obama has gone from a European-style socialist to crony capitalist within 15 minutes in Mitt's speech.
— brian braiker (@slarkpope) January 30, 2012— brian braiker (@slarkpope) January 30, 2012
3.24pm: Let's get our final update of the day from Janine Gibson on the Tampa sofa, and it seems that Gingrich has been winning the battle of the Florida daytime television airwaves.3.24pm: Let's get our final update of the day from Janine Gibson on the Tampa sofa, and it seems that Gingrich has been winning the battle of the Florida daytime television airwaves.
We know that Gingrich has a problem with women voters. The problem is even more acute in Florida, recent polls suggest, with the NBC/Marist poll for example showing Gingrich losing to Romney among women by anything from 26 to 47 percentage points.We know that Gingrich has a problem with women voters. The problem is even more acute in Florida, recent polls suggest, with the NBC/Marist poll for example showing Gingrich losing to Romney among women by anything from 26 to 47 percentage points.
Republican women of Florida, enjoying a little Joan and Melissa Rivers banter on Rachael Ray this afternoon, were being bombarded with ads for Harry Potter World at Universal Studios (where Boyz II Men will be playing in March!) and the Liberal Governor Powerpoint Slideshow, as we now like to describe Gingrich's official attack ad.Republican women of Florida, enjoying a little Joan and Melissa Rivers banter on Rachael Ray this afternoon, were being bombarded with ads for Harry Potter World at Universal Studios (where Boyz II Men will be playing in March!) and the Liberal Governor Powerpoint Slideshow, as we now like to describe Gingrich's official attack ad.
The Gingrich super pac's much slicker Obama's Running Mate ad also featured. This spot – which does not yet appear on the Winning Our Future website though it is from that group – sits uncomfortably with charming domestic scenes involving baking and child rearing which otherwise fill the early afternoon ad breaks. It gives the impression that the best argument Gingrich can make to the women of Florida is that Mitt is in fact short for Damien. To be fair, as a media strategy to reach potential female Gingrich voters, it might be the best hope they have. When I asked the few women Gingrich supporters who I met in South Carolina why they supported him, they could only replly with reasons they couldn't bvote for Romney.The Gingrich super pac's much slicker Obama's Running Mate ad also featured. This spot – which does not yet appear on the Winning Our Future website though it is from that group – sits uncomfortably with charming domestic scenes involving baking and child rearing which otherwise fill the early afternoon ad breaks. It gives the impression that the best argument Gingrich can make to the women of Florida is that Mitt is in fact short for Damien. To be fair, as a media strategy to reach potential female Gingrich voters, it might be the best hope they have. When I asked the few women Gingrich supporters who I met in South Carolina why they supported him, they could only replly with reasons they couldn't bvote for Romney.
By my entirely unscientific count, Gingrich is outspending Romney at a rate of around three two one on female-skewing daytime television, which suggests a late-buying panic. As for what we've learned? I'm fully across bargain flatscreen televisions and had my awareness of diabetes raised to levels that can only be described as constant vigilence, but I'm no clearer – after 17 viewings – what the point of the Liberal Governor ad is, other than to repeat those words. I suspect the women of Florida will remain unmoved by it.By my entirely unscientific count, Gingrich is outspending Romney at a rate of around three two one on female-skewing daytime television, which suggests a late-buying panic. As for what we've learned? I'm fully across bargain flatscreen televisions and had my awareness of diabetes raised to levels that can only be described as constant vigilence, but I'm no clearer – after 17 viewings – what the point of the Liberal Governor ad is, other than to repeat those words. I suspect the women of Florida will remain unmoved by it.
3.11pm: Meanwhile, over in Dunedin, Adam Gabbatt has been polling the crowd waiting for Mitt Romney.3.11pm: Meanwhile, over in Dunedin, Adam Gabbatt has been polling the crowd waiting for Mitt Romney.
At least 500 people here at Mitt Romney's event in Dunedin, waiting patiently for him to arrive. The sun is shining, the flags are waving, and the TV cameras are pointing. The size of the crowd makes for quite a celebratory atmosphere.At least 500 people here at Mitt Romney's event in Dunedin, waiting patiently for him to arrive. The sun is shining, the flags are waving, and the TV cameras are pointing. The size of the crowd makes for quite a celebratory atmosphere.
Doretta Rooney would be among those celebrating if Romney does win here. "I think he's the only one who can beat Obama. Anyone who can beat Obama is who I vote for."Doretta Rooney would be among those celebrating if Romney does win here. "I think he's the only one who can beat Obama. Anyone who can beat Obama is who I vote for."
Rooney, 54, from Long Island in New York but with a second home here in Florida, said her main goal was to overturn Obama's healthcare reforms. "It is a terrible thing. If you're dying of stage 4 cancer, Obama won't give you the medicine, he wants to spend money on people with a better chance of survival. I think that's terrible."Rooney, 54, from Long Island in New York but with a second home here in Florida, said her main goal was to overturn Obama's healthcare reforms. "It is a terrible thing. If you're dying of stage 4 cancer, Obama won't give you the medicine, he wants to spend money on people with a better chance of survival. I think that's terrible."
But is not the former Massachusetts governor's own state healthcare reforms seen as a precursor to Obama's legislation? Rooney says: "I don't think it's the same thing. Romneycare was to do with if you had a good job you had to buy into it. It wasnt free, it came out of your pay packet."But is not the former Massachusetts governor's own state healthcare reforms seen as a precursor to Obama's legislation? Rooney says: "I don't think it's the same thing. Romneycare was to do with if you had a good job you had to buy into it. It wasnt free, it came out of your pay packet."
3.07pm: Fromer Republican hopeful Herman Cain, who has endorsed Newt Gingrich, was the warmup act for the former House speaker at his event here in Tampa, watched by Richard Adams.3.07pm: Fromer Republican hopeful Herman Cain, who has endorsed Newt Gingrich, was the warmup act for the former House speaker at his event here in Tampa, watched by Richard Adams.
Herman Cain now warming up the Gingrich rally crowd in Tampa with his signature mix of bullshit and humour. He says he's had a lot of questions from the media. "Question: why didn't you endorse Speaker Gingrich earlier? Answer: because I didn't want to."Herman Cain now warming up the Gingrich rally crowd in Tampa with his signature mix of bullshit and humour. He says he's had a lot of questions from the media. "Question: why didn't you endorse Speaker Gingrich earlier? Answer: because I didn't want to."
Newt Gingrich at his rally in Tampa: "Let me be clear." twitter.com/RichardA/statu…Newt Gingrich at his rally in Tampa: "Let me be clear." twitter.com/RichardA/statu…
— Richard Adams (@RichardA) January 30, 2012— Richard Adams (@RichardA) January 30, 2012
2.55pm: Events being held by Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich have both got under way simlutaneously. Romney: just over 30 minutes late. Gingrich: nearly two hours late. (My colleague Ewen MacAskill, below, is charitable in his clockwatching.)2.55pm: Events being held by Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich have both got under way simlutaneously. Romney: just over 30 minutes late. Gingrich: nearly two hours late. (My colleague Ewen MacAskill, below, is charitable in his clockwatching.)
Romney: "What a welcome, oh my goodness you guys are amazing." #flprimary twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…Romney: "What a welcome, oh my goodness you guys are amazing." #flprimary twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…
— Adam Gabbatt (@AdamGabbatt) January 30, 2012— Adam Gabbatt (@AdamGabbatt) January 30, 2012
Newt Gingrich event shambles. 90 mins late. insulting to crowd, delay because giving interviews to networks.Newt Gingrich event shambles. 90 mins late. insulting to crowd, delay because giving interviews to networks.
— ewen macaskill (@ewenmacaskill) January 30, 2012— ewen macaskill (@ewenmacaskill) January 30, 2012
2.44pm: As well as being the base for much of the media covering the Florida primary, and a big Mitt Romney results party tomorrow night, Tampa will host the Republican National Convention in August. The mayor of Tampa, Bob Buckhorn, says it's worth several hundred millions of dollars to the city.2.44pm: As well as being the base for much of the media covering the Florida primary, and a big Mitt Romney results party tomorrow night, Tampa will host the Republican National Convention in August. The mayor of Tampa, Bob Buckhorn, says it's worth several hundred millions of dollars to the city.
2.23pm: Newt Gingrich is more than 1hr 15 mins late for his event here in Tampa; meanwhile Mitt Romney is due to start his own event in nearby Dunedin (not to be confused with Dunedin, New Zealand, home to Guardian blogmeister Richard Adams; or Dunedin, Scotland, otherwise known as Edinburgh.)2.23pm: Newt Gingrich is more than 1hr 15 mins late for his event here in Tampa; meanwhile Mitt Romney is due to start his own event in nearby Dunedin (not to be confused with Dunedin, New Zealand, home to Guardian blogmeister Richard Adams; or Dunedin, Scotland, otherwise known as Edinburgh.)
Adam Gabbatt is over in Dunedin:Adam Gabbatt is over in Dunedin:
Big crowd for Romney in Dunedin #flprimary twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…Big crowd for Romney in Dunedin #flprimary twitter.com/AdamGabbatt/st…
— Adam Gabbatt (@AdamGabbatt) January 30, 2012— Adam Gabbatt (@AdamGabbatt) January 30, 2012
2.15pm: One of the tactics of the newly aggressive Mitt Romney campaign is to send hired hecklers to Gingrich events.2.15pm: One of the tactics of the newly aggressive Mitt Romney campaign is to send hired hecklers to Gingrich events.
Romney press secretary Andrea Saul is defending the practice on CNN right now, denying a suggestion that it amounts to "dirty politics". Perish the thought: "They're there to set the record straight," she says.Romney press secretary Andrea Saul is defending the practice on CNN right now, denying a suggestion that it amounts to "dirty politics". Perish the thought: "They're there to set the record straight," she says.
Saul says that, in South Carolina, the Romney campaign allowed Gingrich's claims about him to go unchallenged – and Romney came in a poor second. "We're pushing back, we're not going to let him get away with this ... we're going to be aggressive," she says.Saul says that, in South Carolina, the Romney campaign allowed Gingrich's claims about him to go unchallenged – and Romney came in a poor second. "We're pushing back, we're not going to let him get away with this ... we're going to be aggressive," she says.
2.04pm: The Guardian's Ana Marie Cox has been assessing what it would take for Newt Gingrich to drop out of the race.2.04pm: The Guardian's Ana Marie Cox has been assessing what it would take for Newt Gingrich to drop out of the race.
When we think of someone running for president, the question is usually if the candidate "has what it takes": drive, ambition, charm, money, ruthlessness.When we think of someone running for president, the question is usually if the candidate "has what it takes": drive, ambition, charm, money, ruthlessness.
But there's an equally important set of negative qualifications, qualities a candidate can't have: easily wounded pride, say, and subtlety. Chief among these hindrances is a sense of shame. And whatever Newt Gingrich lacks in positive attributes, he towers over the field in his disregard for common decency.But there's an equally important set of negative qualifications, qualities a candidate can't have: easily wounded pride, say, and subtlety. Chief among these hindrances is a sense of shame. And whatever Newt Gingrich lacks in positive attributes, he towers over the field in his disregard for common decency.
Read the rest of here piece here. It's a joy, as ever.Read the rest of here piece here. It's a joy, as ever.
1.53pm: Back to Richard Adams at the Newt Gingrich event, where he has been canvassing the opinions of the crowd.1.53pm: Back to Richard Adams at the Newt Gingrich event, where he has been canvassing the opinions of the crowd.
The crowd at the Gingrich event has swelled as time has gone on and now must be over 300, and looks a respectable crowd.The crowd at the Gingrich event has swelled as time has gone on and now must be over 300, and looks a respectable crowd.
I have just chatted one of the crowd, Stephen Vandergast with his two little boys, four-year-old twins named Sammy and Ian, both clutching little signs saying "Future astronauts for Newt".I have just chatted one of the crowd, Stephen Vandergast with his two little boys, four-year-old twins named Sammy and Ian, both clutching little signs saying "Future astronauts for Newt".
"What do you want to be when you grow up?" asks Stephen. "Astronauts!" reply Sammy and Ian. So Newt has the four-year-old vote sewn up then."What do you want to be when you grow up?" asks Stephen. "Astronauts!" reply Sammy and Ian. So Newt has the four-year-old vote sewn up then.
From Newt Gingrich's event in Tampa twitter.com/RichardA/statu…From Newt Gingrich's event in Tampa twitter.com/RichardA/statu…
— Richard Adams (@RichardA) January 30, 2012— Richard Adams (@RichardA) January 30, 2012
1.47pm: Polls out over the weekend in Florida put Romney ahead by anything from five to 15 percentage points. The latest one, out in the last hour from Suffolk university (PDF), puts Romney up by a whopping 20 points.1.47pm: Polls out over the weekend in Florida put Romney ahead by anything from five to 15 percentage points. The latest one, out in the last hour from Suffolk university (PDF), puts Romney up by a whopping 20 points.
1.27pm: Janine Gibson notes that the NBC affiliates here are still airing the Romney ad that features their former evening news anchor, Tom Brokaw. The ad consists entirely of an extended clip from Brokow, introducing a segment reporting on the censure of Newt Gingrich for ethics violations when he was House speaker.1.27pm: Janine Gibson notes that the NBC affiliates here are still airing the Romney ad that features their former evening news anchor, Tom Brokaw. The ad consists entirely of an extended clip from Brokow, introducing a segment reporting on the censure of Newt Gingrich for ethics violations when he was House speaker.
NBC has called for Romney to pull the ad after Brokaw said he was "extremely uncomfortable" being dragged into the primary crossfire. On the NBC Today show this morning, presenter Matt Lauer pressed Romney on the issue: "You will give some consideration to pulling it if that's what the decision of your campaign is?"NBC has called for Romney to pull the ad after Brokaw said he was "extremely uncomfortable" being dragged into the primary crossfire. On the NBC Today show this morning, presenter Matt Lauer pressed Romney on the issue: "You will give some consideration to pulling it if that's what the decision of your campaign is?"
Romney replied:Romney replied:
We'll certainly consider that very carefully. This was not something taken from hidden files. This was on the evening news, so it should hardly come as a revealing piece for people who watch it.We'll certainly consider that very carefully. This was not something taken from hidden files. This was on the evening news, so it should hardly come as a revealing piece for people who watch it.
(source: Huffpo)(source: Huffpo)
1.09pm: Richard Adams has made it to the Gingrich campaign stop. Let's do the TV news channel thing and get him to fill airtime by eruditely describing the atmosphere, shall we?1.09pm: Richard Adams has made it to the Gingrich campaign stop. Let's do the TV news channel thing and get him to fill airtime by eruditely describing the atmosphere, shall we?
Live from an aircraft hangar at a small airfield on the outskirts of Tampa, awaiting Newt Gingrich's arrival.Live from an aircraft hangar at a small airfield on the outskirts of Tampa, awaiting Newt Gingrich's arrival.
It may be a soulless empty aircraft hangar but Newt's people are trying to give it a homely touch by erecting dark blue drapes across the hall to lop off about half the space. I'm sitting next to the New York Times's Jeff Zeleny so that's kind of like winning a Pulitzer prize right there.It may be a soulless empty aircraft hangar but Newt's people are trying to give it a homely touch by erecting dark blue drapes across the hall to lop off about half the space. I'm sitting next to the New York Times's Jeff Zeleny so that's kind of like winning a Pulitzer prize right there.
The crowd has just been let in, although crowd is a slight exaggeration – maybe 100 so far.The crowd has just been let in, although crowd is a slight exaggeration – maybe 100 so far.
Thanks Richard! More from him as we get it.Thanks Richard! More from him as we get it.
12.57pm: Janine Gibson has fulfilled her promise of spending the morning watching non-news TV channels, in her quest to track the candidates' TV ad spend.12.57pm: Janine Gibson has fulfilled her promise of spending the morning watching non-news TV channels, in her quest to track the candidates' TV ad spend.
From the media monitoring HQ, I can report that at 10.15am Newt's "Romney is a bad Liberal Governor" did make it to NBC, in a mystifying pumpkin cooking segment which was clearly recorded in October. It's 75 degrees outside. Not that we're going anywhere near the outside, readers. Not when it's time for a rerun of Wheel of Fortune.From the media monitoring HQ, I can report that at 10.15am Newt's "Romney is a bad Liberal Governor" did make it to NBC, in a mystifying pumpkin cooking segment which was clearly recorded in October. It's 75 degrees outside. Not that we're going anywhere near the outside, readers. Not when it's time for a rerun of Wheel of Fortune.
That ad, which appears to have been thrown together using My First Powerpoint software, airs three times during this hopefully little-watched show, meaning I am able to confirm definitively that there are two Ls, two Rs and 6 vowels in Liberal Governor. Switching back to the showbiz buzz section of Today – a program that does indeed seem to go on ALL DAY – I'm learning more about diabetes and how to treat it, but little about the Republican candidates.That ad, which appears to have been thrown together using My First Powerpoint software, airs three times during this hopefully little-watched show, meaning I am able to confirm definitively that there are two Ls, two Rs and 6 vowels in Liberal Governor. Switching back to the showbiz buzz section of Today – a program that does indeed seem to go on ALL DAY – I'm learning more about diabetes and how to treat it, but little about the Republican candidates.
Finally at 12.27pm, Miriam Adelson's $5m airtime buy kicks in and a glossy Gingrich super PAC attack ad airs on NBC . Describing Romney as "Obama's running mate" with upgraded, super-scary strings, the ad is paid for by Winning Our Future.Finally at 12.27pm, Miriam Adelson's $5m airtime buy kicks in and a glossy Gingrich super PAC attack ad airs on NBC . Describing Romney as "Obama's running mate" with upgraded, super-scary strings, the ad is paid for by Winning Our Future.
And is swiftly followed in the same ad break by our old favourite, "Newt is no Reagan:.And is swiftly followed in the same ad break by our old favourite, "Newt is no Reagan:.
This reporter is able to confirm that the money is indeed being spent aiming at Today's women, next to a segment about How to be Fierce and Feminine and get Everything You Want. Ideally, after watching this segment I'll be able to get someone else to watch the ads.This reporter is able to confirm that the money is indeed being spent aiming at Today's women, next to a segment about How to be Fierce and Feminine and get Everything You Want. Ideally, after watching this segment I'll be able to get someone else to watch the ads.
12.41pm: Rick Santorum has pretty much abandoned the race here in Florida, recognising that he is likely to lose badly here. Santorum had been due to campaign in the state on Sunday and today, but his daughter, who has a genetic disorder, was sick at the weekend and he cancelled engagements to remain with her. Our correspondent Chris McGreal says he won't return to Florida, "choosing instead to campaign in Missouri and Minnesota on Monday, which have a primary and a caucus in early February, before moving on to Colorado and Nevada on Tuesday".12.41pm: Rick Santorum has pretty much abandoned the race here in Florida, recognising that he is likely to lose badly here. Santorum had been due to campaign in the state on Sunday and today, but his daughter, who has a genetic disorder, was sick at the weekend and he cancelled engagements to remain with her. Our correspondent Chris McGreal says he won't return to Florida, "choosing instead to campaign in Missouri and Minnesota on Monday, which have a primary and a caucus in early February, before moving on to Colorado and Nevada on Tuesday".
12.31pm: Our correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg has been meeting homeowners facing foreclosure in Florida, and taking their concerns to the candidates campaiging here. She and our videographer Laurence Topham made this film.12.31pm: Our correspondent Suzanne Goldenberg has been meeting homeowners facing foreclosure in Florida, and taking their concerns to the candidates campaiging here. She and our videographer Laurence Topham made this film.
This is Matt Wells taking over from Richard Adams, who has gone to a Newt Gingrich campaign stop here in Tampa. We'll hear from him soon. Meanwhile Adam Gabbatt is on his way to a Mitt Romney event in nearby Dunedin, which is due to start at 2.15pm.This is Matt Wells taking over from Richard Adams, who has gone to a Newt Gingrich campaign stop here in Tampa. We'll hear from him soon. Meanwhile Adam Gabbatt is on his way to a Mitt Romney event in nearby Dunedin, which is due to start at 2.15pm.
11.41pm: And don't miss this "leaked" Gingrich campaign memo preparing the post-Florida defeat groundwork.11.41pm: And don't miss this "leaked" Gingrich campaign memo preparing the post-Florida defeat groundwork.
11.26am: Mitt Romney hasn't just flip-flopped his political positions over the years, he's also flip-flopped his financial holdings as well, we learn from this excellent Boston Globe piece about Romney's lawyer, the fabulously named R Bradford Malt, "a lanky 57-year-old with a penchant for pulling office pranks," according to the Globe:11.26am: Mitt Romney hasn't just flip-flopped his political positions over the years, he's also flip-flopped his financial holdings as well, we learn from this excellent Boston Globe piece about Romney's lawyer, the fabulously named R Bradford Malt, "a lanky 57-year-old with a penchant for pulling office pranks," according to the Globe:
In 2007, as Romney prepared his first run for president, Malt sold stock in dozens of potentially controversial companies, including casino operators, tobacco growers, and firms with ties to Iran. Last year, after Romney pushed for tougher trade sanctions against China, Malt dumped a number of Chinese holdings. He recently shed a money market mutual fund that had invested in government-backed mortgage companies, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which are blamed for exacerbating the housing bust.In 2007, as Romney prepared his first run for president, Malt sold stock in dozens of potentially controversial companies, including casino operators, tobacco growers, and firms with ties to Iran. Last year, after Romney pushed for tougher trade sanctions against China, Malt dumped a number of Chinese holdings. He recently shed a money market mutual fund that had invested in government-backed mortgage companies, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which are blamed for exacerbating the housing bust.
In early 2010, as Romney advanced toward a second presidential campaign, Malt decided to close the $3 million UBS account he set up in Switzerland seven years earlier, realizing it could become a political issue. In 2009, the US government sued UBS to obtain the names of thousands of Americans who secretly held billions of dollars in Swiss accounts.In early 2010, as Romney advanced toward a second presidential campaign, Malt decided to close the $3 million UBS account he set up in Switzerland seven years earlier, realizing it could become a political issue. In 2009, the US government sued UBS to obtain the names of thousands of Americans who secretly held billions of dollars in Swiss accounts.
Oh dear: Iran, China, Swiss bank accounts, Fannie and Freddie. Those attacks ads practically write themselves.Oh dear: Iran, China, Swiss bank accounts, Fannie and Freddie. Those attacks ads practically write themselves.
11.08am: There's much talk on the campaign trail today on the New York Times's Jeff Zeleney's big piece on the silence of Jeb Bush, former governor of Florida and a conservative touchstone.11.08am: There's much talk on the campaign trail today on the New York Times's Jeff Zeleney's big piece on the silence of Jeb Bush, former governor of Florida and a conservative touchstone.
Unlike a lot of heavyweight Republicans, Jeb Bush has signally failed to publicly endorse Mitt Romney in the face of Newt Gingrich's campaign:Unlike a lot of heavyweight Republicans, Jeb Bush has signally failed to publicly endorse Mitt Romney in the face of Newt Gingrich's campaign:
It has not been for a lack of effort by Mr Romney, who has made phone calls, traded e-mails and met privately to try to win over Mr Bush. The campaign was poised to make him a national co-chairman, a role Mr Bush would have shared with Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey, but several Republicans familiar with the offer say it was declined.It has not been for a lack of effort by Mr Romney, who has made phone calls, traded e-mails and met privately to try to win over Mr Bush. The campaign was poised to make him a national co-chairman, a role Mr Bush would have shared with Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey, but several Republicans familiar with the offer say it was declined.
There's some tantalising details in here, such as this:There's some tantalising details in here, such as this:
Mr Bush has made clear in television interviews and in conversations with friends that he is troubled by the sharpening tenor of the race, particularly on immigration. He voiced his concern directly to Mr Romney, two people close to him said, urging him to moderate his oratory and views to avoid a collapse of support among Hispanic voters in the general election.Mr Bush has made clear in television interviews and in conversations with friends that he is troubled by the sharpening tenor of the race, particularly on immigration. He voiced his concern directly to Mr Romney, two people close to him said, urging him to moderate his oratory and views to avoid a collapse of support among Hispanic voters in the general election.
10.51am: Now here's a bargain: a 2005 Chrysler 300C open for bidding on eBay for a mere $1m. That's one million dollars. Now, they say the US auto industry has recovered its mojo but that's ridiculous.10.51am: Now here's a bargain: a 2005 Chrysler 300C open for bidding on eBay for a mere $1m. That's one million dollars. Now, they say the US auto industry has recovered its mojo but that's ridiculous.
And the $1m reason is included in the seller's comments:And the $1m reason is included in the seller's comments:
2005 Chrysler 300C - leased by President Barack Obama. We have the original Illinois title showing this vehicle was actually used by Barack. 19,000 miles driven when this vehicle was Obama's - I'm sure many of them were highway miles back & forth from Chicago to Springfield since Barack was an Illinois State Senator during 2004.2005 Chrysler 300C - leased by President Barack Obama. We have the original Illinois title showing this vehicle was actually used by Barack. 19,000 miles driven when this vehicle was Obama's - I'm sure many of them were highway miles back & forth from Chicago to Springfield since Barack was an Illinois State Senator during 2004.
The eBay listing now has a photo of the car's title showing the vehicle was listed in Obama's name on 13 July, 2004 when the vehicle had just two miles on it.The eBay listing now has a photo of the car's title showing the vehicle was listed in Obama's name on 13 July, 2004 when the vehicle had just two miles on it.
10.27am: The Guardian's Janine Gibson has allocated herself the task of watching Florida TV channels on a continuous loop in order to assess the weight of the carpet-bombing unleashed by the Romney and Gingrich campaigns.10.27am: The Guardian's Janine Gibson has allocated herself the task of watching Florida TV channels on a continuous loop in order to assess the weight of the carpet-bombing unleashed by the Romney and Gingrich campaigns.
She will be updating throughout the day: here is her first installment.She will be updating throughout the day: here is her first installment.
Yesterday I drove from Orlando to Tampa to a soundtrack of local stations playing soft rock and terrifying radio ads. To the strains of scary strings, every 15 minutes a sinister-voice-over would declare Newt Gingrich to be a Washington stooge paid "over $1.6m" as "a historian. Really?" An official ad, it ends with the pay off: "I'm Mitt Romney and I approve this message".Yesterday I drove from Orlando to Tampa to a soundtrack of local stations playing soft rock and terrifying radio ads. To the strains of scary strings, every 15 minutes a sinister-voice-over would declare Newt Gingrich to be a Washington stooge paid "over $1.6m" as "a historian. Really?" An official ad, it ends with the pay off: "I'm Mitt Romney and I approve this message".
Seeking balance, I'm spending the morning in front of the TV here in Tampa, monitoring the well-known massive Florida media buy. The campaigns have, they boast, become more sophisticated in their ad buying - moving out of the obvious and pursuing the Republican voter in programs ranging from CSI to the Weather Channel and rejecting Shows Watched By Democrats, such as Two and A Half Men. Let's test this out.Seeking balance, I'm spending the morning in front of the TV here in Tampa, monitoring the well-known massive Florida media buy. The campaigns have, they boast, become more sophisticated in their ad buying - moving out of the obvious and pursuing the Republican voter in programs ranging from CSI to the Weather Channel and rejecting Shows Watched By Democrats, such as Two and A Half Men. Let's test this out.
After two segments of the Today show on NBC, I'm fully across why your personality might give you diabetes, but haven't seen a single campaign ad. We can but conclude that Today is a SWBD. Maybe it's a Matt Lauer thing.After two segments of the Today show on NBC, I'm fully across why your personality might give you diabetes, but haven't seen a single campaign ad. We can but conclude that Today is a SWBD. Maybe it's a Matt Lauer thing.
CBS News 10, however, is pay dirt. First up, our favourite pedantic appendix reader ad: "From the debates you'd think Newt Gingrich was Ronald Reagan's vice president, but in his diaries Reagan mentioned Gingrich only ONCE". Paid for by Romney SuperPAC Restore Our Future, this ad concludes triumphantly: "Gingrich is no Ronald Reagan".CBS News 10, however, is pay dirt. First up, our favourite pedantic appendix reader ad: "From the debates you'd think Newt Gingrich was Ronald Reagan's vice president, but in his diaries Reagan mentioned Gingrich only ONCE". Paid for by Romney SuperPAC Restore Our Future, this ad concludes triumphantly: "Gingrich is no Ronald Reagan".
But just when you might be feeling sorry for Newt, up he pops. His effort is somewhat less glossy and is a little incoherent, but in essence is this: "Mitt Romney ... Liberal Governor ... increased taxes... Can we trust him... I'm Newt Gingrich and I approve this message". (Full transcript and ad here). I've seen this ad three times now. Four. It's playing again. Make it stop!But just when you might be feeling sorry for Newt, up he pops. His effort is somewhat less glossy and is a little incoherent, but in essence is this: "Mitt Romney ... Liberal Governor ... increased taxes... Can we trust him... I'm Newt Gingrich and I approve this message". (Full transcript and ad here). I've seen this ad three times now. Four. It's playing again. Make it stop!
An hour in to this task and the following things are clear:An hour in to this task and the following things are clear:
• Gingrich is not being bullied out of the ad slots
• It's personal and negative. No mention of other candidates or Obama
• I will not survive another three hours of this
• hhgregg.com is offering a Samsung 43" HDTV for $397 in their sale. If you hurry		• Gingrich is not being bullied out of the ad slots
• It's personal and negative. No mention of other candidates or Obama
• I will not survive another three hours of this
• hhgregg.com is offering a Samsung 43" HDTV for $397 in their sale. If you hurry
9.56am: Once again this live blog has been scooped on the big yet made-up news, such as Michelle Obama's $50,000 lingerie spending spree. Now this is what we British journalists call real news, via Politico:9.56am: Once again this live blog has been scooped on the big yet made-up news, such as Michelle Obama's $50,000 lingerie spending spree. Now this is what we British journalists call real news, via Politico:
After several British news outlets reported that Michelle Obama spent $50,000 on lingerie at a luxury boutique in New York last year, a White House official told Politico the stories are false.After several British news outlets reported that Michelle Obama spent $50,000 on lingerie at a luxury boutique in New York last year, a White House official told Politico the stories are false.
The official, who declined to be identified by name, said it is not the first time British press have printed unconfirmed rumors.The official, who declined to be identified by name, said it is not the first time British press have printed unconfirmed rumors.
The Daily Mail reported that Michelle Obama spent the money during one trip to Agent Provocateur on Madison Avenue while she was visiting with the Queen of Qatar.The Daily Mail reported that Michelle Obama spent the money during one trip to Agent Provocateur on Madison Avenue while she was visiting with the Queen of Qatar.
The Telegraph carried the same story, saying the British retailer reported a 12 percent jump in sales, thanks to the first lady's purchases. It was also reported by The Sun.The Telegraph carried the same story, saying the British retailer reported a 12 percent jump in sales, thanks to the first lady's purchases. It was also reported by The Sun.
Technically, the Telegraph carried the story first and then the Daily Mail and Sun ripped it off, but let's not quibble about details such as whether or not it's true or just sort of not true.Technically, the Telegraph carried the story first and then the Daily Mail and Sun ripped it off, but let's not quibble about details such as whether or not it's true or just sort of not true.
9.30am: On the campaign trail today, both Mitt Romey and Newt Gingrich are all over Florida like a winter tan, while Rick Santorum's novel strategy to win in Florida includes campaigning in Minnesota and a return to town halls in Pizza Ranch restaurants.9.30am: On the campaign trail today, both Mitt Romey and Newt Gingrich are all over Florida like a winter tan, while Rick Santorum's novel strategy to win in Florida includes campaigning in Minnesota and a return to town halls in Pizza Ranch restaurants.
• Mitt Romney
8am: held a rally with supporters at Ring Power Lift Trucks in Jacksonville
2.15pm: Rally with supporters at Pioneer Park, Dunedin
6.10pm: Rally with supporters, Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages, Florida		• Mitt Romney
8am: held a rally with supporters at Ring Power Lift Trucks in Jacksonville
2.15pm: Rally with supporters at Pioneer Park, Dunedin
6.10pm: Rally with supporters, Lake Sumter Landing, The Villages, Florida
• Newt Gingrich
7.30am: held a rally with Michael Reagan at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
10am: Rally with Michael Reagan, Pensacola Aviation Center
1pm: Rally with Michael Reagan. Tampa Jet Center
3pm: Rally with Michael Reagan, Page Field, Fort Meyers
6pm: "Crossing the Finish Line" rally, Renaissance Airport Hotel, Orlando		• Newt Gingrich
7.30am: held a rally with Michael Reagan at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
10am: Rally with Michael Reagan, Pensacola Aviation Center
1pm: Rally with Michael Reagan. Tampa Jet Center
3pm: Rally with Michael Reagan, Page Field, Fort Meyers
6pm: "Crossing the Finish Line" rally, Renaissance Airport Hotel, Orlando
• Rick Santorum
Campaigning in Missouri and Minnesota (all times are local)
2:30pm CT: St Charles Community College, Cottleville, Missouri
7.30pm CT: Town hall meeting, Pizza Ranch, Luverne, Minnesota		• Rick Santorum
Campaigning in Missouri and Minnesota (all times are local)
2:30pm CT: St Charles Community College, Cottleville, Missouri
7.30pm CT: Town hall meeting, Pizza Ranch, Luverne, Minnesota
9am: Here's a round-up of the latest news from the campaign trail from Ryan Devereaux:9am: Here's a round-up of the latest news from the campaign trail from Ryan Devereaux:
• With voting in Florida's primary tomorrow, new polls suggest Newt Gingrich is the underdog. Four polls released Sunday – from NBC, Mason-Dixon, American Research Group and Rasmussen Reports – all give Mitt Romney a double-digit lead over the former speaker of the house. According to Nate Silver of the New York Times, Romney has a 97% chance of winning, compared to 3% for Gingrich. Meanwhile Rick Santorum and Ron Paul, who are separated by a 3.6% point spread with Santorum in the lead, have no chance of victory.• With voting in Florida's primary tomorrow, new polls suggest Newt Gingrich is the underdog. Four polls released Sunday – from NBC, Mason-Dixon, American Research Group and Rasmussen Reports – all give Mitt Romney a double-digit lead over the former speaker of the house. According to Nate Silver of the New York Times, Romney has a 97% chance of winning, compared to 3% for Gingrich. Meanwhile Rick Santorum and Ron Paul, who are separated by a 3.6% point spread with Santorum in the lead, have no chance of victory.
• Poor polling hasn't dampened Gingrich's spirit over the weekend, or at least not visibly. Speaking to reporters outside a Florida church on Saturday, Gingrich predicted Romney would fail to win the majority of Tuesday's votes and wouldn't be able to collect a majority of delegate votes by the time the Republican convention is held in August. "When you take all of the non-Romney votes, it's very likely that at the convention there will be a non-Romney majority — and maybe a very substantial one — and my job is to convert that into a pro-Gingrich majority," he said• Poor polling hasn't dampened Gingrich's spirit over the weekend, or at least not visibly. Speaking to reporters outside a Florida church on Saturday, Gingrich predicted Romney would fail to win the majority of Tuesday's votes and wouldn't be able to collect a majority of delegate votes by the time the Republican convention is held in August. "When you take all of the non-Romney votes, it's very likely that at the convention there will be a non-Romney majority — and maybe a very substantial one — and my job is to convert that into a pro-Gingrich majority," he said
• With the support of former Alaska governor Sarah Palin and an endorsement from pizza mogul Herman Cain, Gingrich has attempted to pitch himself as a populist conservative champion. He has described himself as "the legitimate heir to the Reagan movement," unlike Romey, who he has derided as "some liberal from Massachusetts"• With the support of former Alaska governor Sarah Palin and an endorsement from pizza mogul Herman Cain, Gingrich has attempted to pitch himself as a populist conservative champion. He has described himself as "the legitimate heir to the Reagan movement," unlike Romey, who he has derided as "some liberal from Massachusetts"
• Florida's airwaves are thick with attack ads, mostly from the Romney campaign, whose tactic is to remind voters of Gingrich's history in Washington. Speaking at a rally this weekend, the former Massachusetts governor reminded the crowd of Ginigrich's work with the financial mortgage giant Freddie Mac• Florida's airwaves are thick with attack ads, mostly from the Romney campaign, whose tactic is to remind voters of Gingrich's history in Washington. Speaking at a rally this weekend, the former Massachusetts governor reminded the crowd of Ginigrich's work with the financial mortgage giant Freddie Mac
• Texas congressman Ron Paul is facing increasing criticism following a Washington Post article published last week claiming that he was well-aware of the controversial newsletters that have dogged his campaign. According to sources quoted by the Post, he discussed inserting more extreme views into the newsletters to increase revenue. Paul has denied the claim• Texas congressman Ron Paul is facing increasing criticism following a Washington Post article published last week claiming that he was well-aware of the controversial newsletters that have dogged his campaign. According to sources quoted by the Post, he discussed inserting more extreme views into the newsletters to increase revenue. Paul has denied the claim
• Rick Santorum took time off from the campaign trail this weekend after his three-year-old daughter Bella suffered a medical emergency. Santorum is expected to return to campaigning today. He won't be taking his social conservative message to Florida, however. On Sunday the former Pennsylvania senator told reporters he was "heading out to the midwest," to focus on upcoming contests, and will hold his Florida election night party in Nevada• Rick Santorum took time off from the campaign trail this weekend after his three-year-old daughter Bella suffered a medical emergency. Santorum is expected to return to campaigning today. He won't be taking his social conservative message to Florida, however. On Sunday the former Pennsylvania senator told reporters he was "heading out to the midwest," to focus on upcoming contests, and will hold his Florida election night party in Nevada
8.30am: Mitt Romney appears to be in complete control of tomorrow's Republican primary, with the latest polls unanimous in declaring him the likely winner, some by a considerable margin over Newt Gingrich.8.30am: Mitt Romney appears to be in complete control of tomorrow's Republican primary, with the latest polls unanimous in declaring him the likely winner, some by a considerable margin over Newt Gingrich.
Riding a tide of money funding a media wave of attack advertising, Romney's campaign now wants a resounding victory to effectively end Gingrich's bid for the Republican nomination. But the scale of Romney's victory appears to also be setting off another swing in the GOP presidential see-saw in Gingrich's favour.Riding a tide of money funding a media wave of attack advertising, Romney's campaign now wants a resounding victory to effectively end Gingrich's bid for the Republican nomination. But the scale of Romney's victory appears to also be setting off another swing in the GOP presidential see-saw in Gingrich's favour.
The Guardian's team of reporters, on the ground and in cyberspace, will be covering the major events on the campaign trail in Florida, and we'll be carrying all the news right here.The Guardian's team of reporters, on the ground and in cyberspace, will be covering the major events on the campaign trail in Florida, and we'll be carrying all the news right here.