'12

[NHI]

VP Biden Blasts the Republican House, Praises Obama

Vice President Biden emerged the strongest critic of the newly minted Republican-led House and chief backer of the Obama Administration. "We're dealing with obstructionist folks. They keep moving the goal line further and further down the field. They're just waiting for the next election. They don't care about you. They don't care about the middle class. Frankly, they don't care about America."

Rumor: Hillary Clinton Considering Stepping Down as Secretary of State.

Washington, DC is a abuzz over the rumors that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton might be stepping down from her post and throwing her hat back into the arena as a Presidential candidate. The only problem, Barack Obama is the incumbent Democratic President and while his poll numbers continue to drop, the latest Gallup Survey puts the President at 35% approval, it seems rather brash and unlikely the one time Democratic candidate would challenge her boss and former rival for the Democratic nod in 2012.

Mike Huckabee Signs off Fox, Hints at a Presidential run in 2012

"I believe I cannot and should not remain on the sidelines while our country runs adrift." Mike Huckabee, host of Huckabee on the Fox News Network, signed off for the last time as host of the show, giving more reason to believe he will mount another campaign for the Presidency in 2012.

President Obama Says No to a Second Term

Amid gridlock on Capitol Hill, falling poll numbers and poor showing in trial heats to Republican candidates, Barack Obama became the first President since Lyndon Johnson to forgo running a second term. "I have always said I'd rather be a good one term President, than a mediocre or bad two term President. There is too much at stake now for me to waste my energies fighting the political battles. I believe more can be accomplished with focus on the job at hand. Therefore, today I am announcing, once and for all that I will not be seeking a second term as President of the United States."

Republican Front runner Mitt Romney First Republican to Declare

Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney announced from Stratham, NH his second campaign for President. Romney enters the field the front runner, with so-far the best organization and financial structure than any of the other possible Republican candidates. "The President has stepped aside and my friends I couldn't think of a better decision he's made as President. He's out of ideas and policies and out of time. It's our chance, it's our time now to start fresh and forge a new chapter for America under new leadership and most important of all a new President!"

Joe Biden: "I'm In!"

President Obama's decision to forgo running for President again, paved the way for Vice President Joe Biden to throw his hat into the ring, becoming the first Democratic candidate to enter the race to succeed his boss. "I want to build on the successes we've had and keep this country moving forward!" Biden, clearly positioning himself as the heir to Obama, seems to be making the strongest case for what would be a second Obama term.

The Year of the Woman? Hillary and Bachmann jump into the '12 Race for President

Despite the candidacy of Joe Biden, many prominent Democrats backed away, in favor of the Vice President, but the Vice President's candidacy did not seem to deter Hillary Clinton, who stepped down as Secretary of State, shortly after President Obama's decision on reelection. In late July the former Secretary of State entered the race for the Democratic race, positioning herself as champion of the middle class and a Democrat more in the tradition of her husband, Bill Clinton. "This will not be a partisan campaign, but a campaign on the issues that matter to all Americans and about solutions to the greatest challenge facing us today, which is rebuilding and then growing the US economy!"

"I'm running for President to restore American greatness and values." Congressman Michele Bachmann's decision to run for President seems to be an effort to tap into the grassroots energy of the Tea Party and potentially block a candidacy by Former Alaskan Governor Sarah Palin, who is still reportedly considering running in 2012.

Bernie Sanders: Independent, Democratic-Socialist Announces he's Running for President Too!

"We need a shakeup. A political revolution in this country and I hoping with your help to lead it and make our dreams a of a better, fairer and stronger country a reality."

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich Enters the Republican Race

"Our President has decided to step aside for the good of the country and not run again. Now we have his Former Secretary of State and current Vice President vying for the top job. Well, it's irrelevant who gets the nomination because they'll be a continuation of Barack Obama's failed policies. It's time for a genuine conservative problem solver to be elected and re-route our country's misguided direction. Fellow citizens and fellow conservatives, I am that candidates."

He's Back! Ron Paul Announces bid for GOP Nomination

"We have a real chance to breakthrough in this election and win by the virtues of liberty and freedom and economic prosperity. Our message resonated last time, now we can build on it and win."

Other Candidates Toss Their Hats into the Ring

Mike Huckabee

George Pataki

Jim Webb

Brian Schweitzer

Bobby Jindal

Gallup Polling: 2012 Republican Nomination (August 2011)

Mitt Romney: 23%

Michele Bachmann: 13%
Mike Huckabee: 11%
Ron Paul: 10%
Newt Gingrich: 5%
Bobby Jindal: 2%
George Pataki: 1%
Undecided: 35%

Gallup Polling: 2012 Democratic Nomination (August 2011)

Joe Biden: 28%
Hillary Clinton: 26%
Bernie Sanders: 6%
Brian Schweitzer: 2%
Jim Webb: 1%
Undecided: 38%

[Bigby]

Well, this is interesting.

[NeverAgain]

BernIn'12!

[NHI]

Gallup Polling: General Election Match ups (August 2011)

Mitt Romney: 48% (+6)

Joe Biden: 42%

Mitt Romney: 47% (+3)

Hillary Clinton: 44%

Mitt Romney: 57% (+24)

Bernie Sanders: 33%

Mitt Romney: 56% (+20)

Brian Schweitzer: 36%

Joe Biden: 48% (+9)

Michele Bachmann: 39%

Hillary Clinton: 50% (+10)

Michele Bachmann: 40%

Joe Biden: 47% (+6)

Mike Huckabee: 41%

Hillary Clinton: 48% (+6)

Mike Huckabee: 42%

[NHI]

Gallup Poll: Iowa Caucuses Democratic Nomination (August 2011) Biden +11

Joe Biden: 35%
Hillary Clinton: 24%
Bernie Sanders: 10%
Brian Schweitzer: 2%
Jim Webb: 1%
Undecided: 28%

Gallup Up: Iowa Caucuses Republican Nomination (August 2011) Huckabee +2

Mike Huckabee: 21%
Mitt Romney: 19%
Michele Bachmann: 19%
Ron Paul: 10%
Newt Gingrich: 6%
Bobby Jindal: 2%
George Pataki: 0.5%
Undecided: 22.5%

WMUR: New Hampshire Primary Democratic Nomination (August 2011) Hillary +18

Hillary Clinton: 38%

Joe Biden: 20%
Bernie Sanders: 13%
Brian Schweitzer: 1%
Jim Webb: 0.5%
Undecided: 27.5%

WMUR: New Hampshire Primary Republican Nomination (August 2011) Romney +24

Mitt Romney: 39%
Ron Paul: 15%
Michele Bachmann: 9%
Mike Huckabee: 8%
Newt Gingrich: 2%
George Pataki: 1%
Bobby Jindal: 1%
Undecided: 25%

NBC/WSJ Poll: South Carolina Primary Democratic Nomination (August 2011) Biden +6

Joe Biden: 37%
Hillary Clinton: 31%
Bernie Sanders: 9%
Jim Webb: 2%
Brian Schweitzer: 1%
Undecided: 22%

NBC/WSJ Poll: South Carolina Primary Republican Nomination (August 2011) Huckabee +1

Mike Huckabee: 20%
Mitt Romney: 19%
Michele Bachmann: 15%
Newt Gingrich: 9%
Ron Paul: 8%
Bobby Jindal: 7%
George Pataki: 1%
Undecided: 21%

CNN/ORC Poll: Florida Primary Democratic Nomination (August 2011) Hillary +5

Hillary Clinton: 33%
Joe Biden: 28%
Bernie Sanders: 11%
Jim Webb: 1%
Brian Schweitzer: 1%
Undecided: 26%

CNN/ORC Poll: Florida Primary Republican Nomination (August 2011) Romney +10

Mitt Romney: 27%
Mike Huckabee: 17%
Michele Bachmann: 16%
Ron Paul: 7%
Bobby Jindal: 4%
Newt Gingrich: 4%
George Pataki: 1%
Undecided: 24%

[NHI]

Something is Happen: Democrats are Feeling The Bern?!

[center[/center]

Bernie Sanders has tapped into the grassroots energy of the Democratic Party base. Feeding off of the Occupy Wall Street Movement, Sanders is drawings crowds by the thousands everywhere he speaks, causing some concern in the Democratic Party establishment over the seemingly lackluster campaigns of Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton, the two leading Democrats for the nomination.The problem with Joe Biden it seems, he is saddled with the baggage of the Obama Administration. Even though Hillary Clinton was very much apart of the Administration, by the very nature of being Vice President Biden is strapped with carrying the Obama message and embracing his mantle.

Clinton, is running as a reformer, more so than Obama's second term. She is embracing the Democratic policies of her husband and traditional blue dog Democrats in an effort to separate herself from the incumbent President and Vice President. The problem for Clinton is empathy or lack thereof. While Clinton's candidacy is historic she is running through the same likability troubles, which doomed her campaign for years ago. Plus, Clinton's not-so-subtle attacks on President Obama is not sitting well with a Democratic Base, that while discouraged is still strong in favor of their Democratic President.

Clinton Critical of Obama Presidency

"The trouble in Washington, today is nobody works together. There is no compromising, it's one way or no way. That is not how I was brought up, that is not the best of government and that is not how I will govern as President. I want to build bridges and bring people together to work and solves the challenges facing the American people. We've not seen results or action for a while. We've heard only a lot of talking and that needs to change."

Biden Hits Back At Clinton Comments

Vice President Joe Biden wasted no time in hitting back Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton over her veiled attacks on the Obama Administration. "We've been pushing for change for nearly four years and we've had successes. The healthcare law, which Republicans have tried to rip to shreds, the stimulus package which is paving the way for recovery, a Latino nominated to the Supreme Court. Folks, we've made change alright and we've had a lot of action, but we've been met by obstruction and gridlock, so I think it would be wise for all candidates to step back and look at the bigger picture rather than focusing on the negative. There's a lot wrong, but there's also a lot right in this country today!"

Jim Webb Drops Out, Endorses Joe Biden

Virginia Senator Jim Webb, announced in his home state he would be dropping out of the race for the Democratic nomination and backing Vice President Joe Biden. In a joint appearance in Richmond, Biden joined by Former Governor and now candidate for the US Senate Tim Kaine as well as incumbent Senator Mark Warner endorsed the Vice President to be the Democratic candidate in 2012. "He is a fighter and will keep this country moving forward. America needs Joe and I'm proud to stand with him!"

Republicans in a Panic over Mitt Romney

Republicans are in a panic over the candidacy of Mitt Romney, the front runner for the party's nomination. Following a mediocre debate performance, which saw conservative superstar Michele Bachmann shine, the former Massachusetts Governor continues to slip in most national polls and in the critical states of Iowa and South Carolina. The concern is that if Romney continues to decline in the wake of Bachmann's rise, another candidate may need to emerge.

There is already talk of a late entry by Texas Governor Rick Perry, an establishment favorite, as well as strong supporter of the Tea Party, many believe the Governor may be able to bridge the gap between the two sides and unite the party against the Democrats. Rumors are also circulating of an effort to draft former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, and current New Jersey Governor and Republican firebrand, Chris Christie. Both Christie and Bush have declined the chance to run, but concern over Romney has many in the GOP looking for other candidates to support.

Rasmussen Polling: Republican Nomination (September 2011)

Michele Bachman: 22%
Mitt Romney: 17%
Mike Huckabee: 13%
Ron Paul: 11%
Newt Gingrich: 7%
Bobby Jindal: 2%
George Pataki: 1%
Undecided: 27%

Des Moines Register Polling: Republican Nomination (Iowa Caucuses) Sept. 2011

Michele Bachmann: 28%
Mitt Romney: 18%
Mike Huckabee: 16%
Ron Paul: 8%
Newt Gingrich: 5%
Bobby Jindal: 2%
Undecided: 23%

Feel The Bern: Bernie Surges on the Democratic Side

The self-described Democratic socialist is surging in the race for the Democratic nomination. Bernie Sanders is steadily climbing in most national polls and now is polling close behind Hillary Clinton in the Iowa Caucuses, where Vice President Biden's lead continues to shrink. Sanders credits his campaign's success to "talking about the issues, the American people care about." When asked if he is surprised by his sudden surge, Sanders shrugged it off. "I always knew once the people heard our message it would resonate, but I never believed it would resonate and grow this quickly. The fact is we were polling in single digits when I announced and now we've doubled even tripled our numbers in some places."

Sanders is running a strong third in Iowa and in the all-important state of New Hampshire, where Hillary Clinton maintains her lead, Sanders, the Senator from neighboring Vermont is now ahead of Joe Biden in second place for the race in the Granite State. "We're only going to go up," Sanders said on the stump in Iowa. "We're not running negative ads, we're just talking the truth and people are listening and responding quite well."

NBC/WSJ Poll: Democratic Nomination Sept. 2011

Joe Biden: 25%
Hillary Clinton: 24%
Bernie Sanders: 18%
Brian Schweitzer: 2%
Undecided: 31%

Des Moines Register Polling: Democratic Nomination (Iowa Caucuses) Sept. 2011

Joe Biden: 28%
Hillary Clinton: 22%
Bernie Sanders: 19%
Brian Schweitzer: 3%
Undecided: 28%

WMUR Poll: Democratic Nomination (New Hampshire Primary) Sept. 2011

Hillary Clinton 37% (-1)
Bernie Sanders: 20% (+7)
Joe Biden: 17% (-3)
Brian Schweitzer: 1% (+/- 0)
Undecided: 25%

Obama: No Endorsement yet, but praises Biden and Clinton.

President Obama continues to watch the Democratic race from afar, and says while he respects all the candidates involved, he is not yet ready to announce an endorsement, even going so far to say he might avoid endorsing until after the nomination is settled. Currently, the President's approval rating sits at 39%, which he joked, "they might not even want my endorsement." Though, the President is staying on the sidelines for the time being, he did offer praise of Joe Biden, someone he called, "an outstanding Vice President and dear friend." Obama also remarked that picking Joe Biden was the best "political decision I've ever made." On Hillary Clinton, the President praised his former Secretary of State as a "good steward of diplomacy and restoring American leadership abroad."

The Real Deal?

Michele Bachmann's continued surge has many top Republicans scratching their heads, while the base of the party, most notably the conservative element which propelled the Tea Party into the limelight and elected Republican overwhelming across the country in 2010 are rallying to the Minnesota Republican's campaign. "She's tapped into the grassroots fever and exploited it for her own gain," says Red State Founder and Conservative Activist Erick Erickson. "She's a threat to the establishment. In many way she's what Sarah Palin could have been."

Bachmann's number are on the rise nationally and in the first state of Iowa. Most national polls put Bachmann ahead of presumed Republican frontrunner Mitt Romney by anywheres from 4 to 8 points. In Iowa, the latest poll puts her 10 points ahead of the former Massachusetts Governor and in South Carolina, she is tied with Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee. (21% to 21%). Romney trails in third with 16 percent.

Sarah Palin Backs Michele Bachmann

2008 Vice Presidential Nominee and Former Alaskan Governor Sarah Palin announced her support of Michele Bachmann, another sign of her campaign's momentum and success at securing the conservative grassroots wing of the Republican Party. Coming off another strong debate performance Palin threw her support behind the emerging frontrunner. At a rally in Des Moines, Palin told the crowd, "She's a tell-it-like-it-is kind of candidate, who will not put up with the bull we've been getting from Washington. She's tough and driven, but also compassionate and resolute. She is the champion we need fighting on behalf of us in Washington, DC, because Michele Bachmann is someone who won't back down."

[An American Tail: Fubart Goes West]

I've always been a fan of your TLs and this one is no different. I'm rooting for Bernie, but I wouldn't mind Schweitzer.

[NHI]

Brian Schweitzer Looks to be the Under Dog in Democratic Race

In the Democratic race dominated by fight between Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden and the insurgent campaign of Bernie Sanders, Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer is running a below-the-radar campaign, focusing much of his efforts on the first in the nation primary vote in New Hampshire. While Schweitzer has been stranded in single digits throughout most of the race, the Montana Governor believes his efforts in New Hampshire will pay off. He's been crisscrossing the state, visited all ten counties, participated in parades and old home days and held nearly twenty-five town halls. "New Hampshire gets politics. They get it. The people hear understand they got to talk to you and meet you and shake your hand five times at least, before they'll consider voting for you."

On what separates him from his fellow contenders, "I'm a governor. I've actually balanced a budget. I'm not the heir to a political dynasty. I've not spent my life yapping in the US Senate, I've actually gotten results and have a track record of success in a red state."

Still polls put Schweitzer in last place behind, Vice President Biden, who has seen his numbers slide following Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders' surge in the Granite State. Hillary Clinton has also loss ground in the wake of Sanders' surge, but this gives Schweitzer hope. "This campaign is unsteady. It's been back-and-forth between a few people, I think voters are still figuring out who is the strongest and most credible candidate and that will bode well for our efforts."

WMUR Poll: Democratic Primary (NH) October 2011

Hillary Clinton: 30%
Bernie Sanders: 24%
Joe Biden: 14%
Brian Schweitzer: 4%
Undecided: 17%

Michele Bachman On a Roll

Minnesota Congressman Michele Bachmann remains on top, following the latest Republican Debate where she took to criticizing Mitt Romney for his Massachusetts Health Care law, comparing it to Obamcare and calling Romney the "man responsible for Obamacare". National polls put her in the lead for the Republican Nomination, running five to eight points ahead of Governor Mitt Romney, and in Iowa she is clearing the field, leading by as much as twelve to fifteen points. Political analysts credit Bachmann's rise to the emergence of the Tea Party and the lack of another conservative candidate in the race.

"This race was always going to be a contests between Mitt Romney, the establishment candidate and the conservative grassroots, the anti-establishment candidate. Bachmann is that candidate," said George Will On Sunday's This Week, Will also added, "I think what surprises people is that the Anti-Romney candidate appears to be running away with this race and is so far ahead, this early."

Romney vs. Bachmann: Establishment and the Tea Party

Mitt Romney: What we did in Massachusetts was a state solution to a state problem --

Michele Bachmann: And yet it is what President Obama called a model for the nation, something I also believe you said as well Governor.

Mitt Romney: Congresswoman, listen to my words, okay. I said it was not a model for the nation. What we did was work with our legislature and try to fix a problem. Is it perfect? No, but it was a solution.

Michele Bachmann: And today we have Obamacare. You are the man responsible for it Governor Romney. You helped pave the wave for Obamacare, because the President said he looked to Massachusetts and what you did there, when he crafted his own proposal.

Mitt Romney: Congresswoman --

Michele Bachmann: Governor, don't deny it. Obamacare and Romney-care are one in the same, just signed into law by different people. One is a state program, the other is a national nightmare. 

Gallup Polling: Republican Nomination (October 2011)

Michele Bachmann: 29%

Mitt Romney: 20%

Ron Paul: 13%
Mike Huckabee: 13%
Newt Gingrich: 4%
Bobby Jindal: 1%
George Pataki: 0%
Undecided: 20%

CNN/ORC Poll: Iowa Caucuses Republican Nomination (October 2011)

Michele Bachmann: 35%

Mitt Romney: 22%
Mike Huckabee: 14%
Newt Gingrich: 4%
Ron Paul: 4%
Bobby Jindal: 1%
George Pataki: 0%
Undecided: 19%

WMUR Poll: New Hampshire Primary (Republicans) October 2011

Mitt Romney: 34%
Michele Bachmann: 19%
Ron Paul: 17%
Mike Huckabee: 9%
Newt Gingrich: 3%
Bobby Jindal: 1%
George Pataki: 1%
Undecided: 22%

NBC/WSJ Poll: South Carolina Primary (Republicans) October 2011

Michele Bachmann: 26%
Mitt Romney: 20%
Mike Huckabee: 13%
Ron Paul: 6%
Newt Gingrich: 5%
Bobby Jindal: 1%
George Pataki: 0%
Undecided: 29%

Jacksonville Public Policy Institute Poll: Florida Primary (Republicans) October 2011

Mitt Romney: 26%
Michele Bachmann: 19%
Mike Huckabee: 13%
Ron Paul: 5%
Newt Gingrich: 3%
Bobby Jindal: 1%
Undecided: 33%

Gallup Polling: 2012 General Election (October 2011)

Joe Biden 45% (+3)

Mitt Romney: 42%

Joe Biden: 46% (+2)

Michele Bachmann: 44%

Joe Biden: 48% (+6)

Mike Huckabee: 42%

Joe Biden: 51% (+10)

Newt Gingrich: 41%

Joe Biden: 52% (+14)

Ron Paul: 38%

Joe Biden: 55% (+18)

Bobby Jindal: 37%

Joe Biden: 54% (+19)

George Pataki: 35%

Hillary Clinton: 45% (+1)

Mitt Romney: 44%

Hillary Clinton: 46% (+2)

Michele Bachmann: 44%

Hillary Clinton: 47% (+4)

Mike Huckabee: 43%

Hillary Clinton: 49% (+7)

Newt Gingrich: 42%

Hillary Clinton: 51% (+12)

Ron Paul: 39%

Hillary Clinton: 51% (+13)

Bobby Jindal: 38%

Hillary Clinton: 52% (+14)

George Pataki: 38%

Mitt Romney: 49% (+6)

Bernie Sanders: 43%

Michele Bachmann: 47% (+3)

Bernie Sanders: 44%

Mike Huckabee: 47% (+3)

Bernie Sanders: 44%

Bernie Sanders: 45% (+2)

Newt Gingrich: 43%

Bernie Sanders: 44% (+1)

Ron Paul: 43%

Bernie Sanders: 45% (+5)

Bobby Jindal: 40%

Bernie Sanders: 44% (+4)

George Pataki: 40%

[NHI]

Romney Doubles Down in Iowa

Facing declining poll numbers in Iowa and slipping nationally Mitt Romney is refocusing his campaign and putting a tremendous effort into winning the Iowa Caucuses. The latest poll puts him far behind frontrunner Michele Bachmann, but campaign insiders say Romney needs to change the story. Even if he loses Iowa, the goal is to shrink Bachmann's lead to deny her campaign any momentum heading into New Hampshire, where Romney is already losing ground to Bachmann.

Sanders Surges in Iowa

Bernie Sanders' momentum is showing no sign of stopping. The latest polls out of Iowa puts Sanders in second place, ahead of Hillary Clinton who has slipped to third and narrowly behind Vice President Joe Biden, who continues to lead in the state.

Gallup Poll: Iowa Democratic Caucuses (November 2011) Biden +3

Joe Biden: 27%
Bernie Sanders: 24%
Hillary Clinton: 19%
Brian Schweitzer: 4%
Undecided: 26%

Clinton Looks to be the Top Choices of Democrats

Hillary Clinton holds onto her lead in New Hampshire, but Bernie Sanders continues to surge in the state and so to is Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer. The Former Secretary of State has hoped to make New Hampshire her firewall, given her drop in Iowa. The campaign believes a Sanders win in Iowa, followed by a Clinton win in New Hampshire will cement her as the top choice of the party establishment, pitting her in a mono-a-mono fight with Sanders, which the campaign believes they are more likely to win than against the sitting Vice President.

WMUR Poll: Democrats New Hampshire Primary (November 2011) Clinton +4

Hillary Clinton: 29% (-1)
Bernie Sanders: 25% (+1)
Joe Biden: 14% (-0)
Brian Schweitzer: 11% (+7)
Undecided: 24%

CNN/ORC Poll: South Carolina Primary (Democrats) November 2011 Biden +2

Joe Biden: 28%
Hillary Clinton: 26%
Bernie Sanders: 20%
Brian Schweitzer: 4%
Undecided: 20%

Jacksonville PPI Poll: Florida Democratic Primary (November 2011) Clinton+4

Hillary Clinton: 29%
Joe Biden: 25%
Bernie Sanders: 24%
Brian Schweitzer: 4%
Undecided: 22%

NBC/WSJ Poll: Democratic Primary Nationally (November 2011)

Joe Biden: 25%
Hillary Clinton: 24%
Bernie Sanders: 23%
Brian Schweitzer: 7%
Undecided: 21%

Trio: The Main Contenders for the Democratic Nomination

[Kingpoleon]

Newt Gingrich/Tim Pawlenty 2012!

[NHI]

Newt-Maina!

Newt Gingrich saw his stock rise, after what will be the final debate before the Iowa Caucuses. The Former House Speaker spoke on the need to elect a Republican President after what he called, "the disastrous four years of Barack Obama," but also took to challenging Republican frontrunner Michele Bachmann. "I believe it is one thing to talk about conservative solutions, it's another thing to actually accomplish them. I balanced the federal budget. I cut taxes. I got a Democratic President to sign welfare reform. Rather than talking about it, or giving a speech on it, like the Congresswoman I've delivered results and would be a change in direction and tone from Barack Obama and the other failed Democrats running to replace him."

Gingrich's response received a standing ovation. In recent weeks the Former House Speaker has been dogged by allegations from his ex-wife over the decline of their marriage. Gingrich lambasted the questioner for bringing up the matter and repudiated as "nothing but a shameless play from the liberal elite media." The remark was the strongest point of the night for Gingrich and as a result has seen his numbers rise.

CNN/ORC Poll: Republican Nomination (December 2011) Post-Debate

Michele Bachmann: 25%
Mitt Romney: 18%
Newt Gingrich: 14%
Ron Paul: 11%
Mike Huckabee: 8%
Bobby Jindal: 2%
George Pataki: 1%
Undecided: 21%

Sanders Surging in Iowa

Bernie Sanders and Joe Biden are in a fight for the top spot ahead of the Iowa Caucuses. Latest polls puts Biden with 25% and Sanders at 24%. Hillary Clinton polls third with 17% and Brian Schweitzer at 7%. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has all-but pulled her campaign out of Iowa, with the focus being placed on the New Hampshire primary, which delivered Clinton her comeback eight years ago. Political analysts believe the Iowa Caucuses are critical for the Vice President, who has spent the most time and money in the state. A loss for him here would be a blow to his campaign.

Bachmann Remains on Top in Iowa, But Gingrich is Closing In

The latest Des Moines Register Poll put Bachmann with 27%, with Gingrich tied with Romney at 18%.

√ Projection: Bobby Jindal to Finish 6th in Iowa

Bobby Jindal Finishes Last in Iowa, Drops Out

Bobby Jindal is projected to finish last in the Iowa Caucuses. The Louisiana Governor had run a lackluster campaign from the start and with very little funds could barely compete in the state. He has not announced an endorsement.

Breaking News: Bachmann and Gingrich in a Close Race for First

Michele Bachman and Newt Gingrich are battling for first in the Iowa Caucuses. Newt Gingrich has been slowly rising following his strong debate performance. Despite, being underfunded and outspent Gingrich is performing surprisingly well, especially when many had written his candidacy off many months ago.

Iowa Caucuses Results: Republicans 2012 (Incomplete)

Michele Bachmann: 28.6% (+3.1%)
Newt Gingrich: 25.5%
Mitt Romney: 19.7%
Ron Paul: 11.3%
Mike Huckabee: 10.9%
Bobby Jindal: 1.9%
Other: 1.7%
George Pataki: 0.4%

Breaking News: √ Bernie Sanders Wins the Iowa Caucuses

Bernie Sanders addressing the crowd in Des Moines, Iowa after his stunning victory.

Bernie Sanders is the projected winner in the Iowa Caucuses, defeating Vice President Joe Biden and Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton handily. In a contest, expected to be closer, Bernie Sanders won the Iowa Caucuses walking away. Vice President Joe Biden, who finished second is seen as the big loser, given the nature of his office and the amount of time he spent campaigning in the state. Sanders' victory in Iowa leaves unstable ground as the field moves into New Hampshire, where Hillary Clinton is staking her entire campaign on, once again.

Iowa Caucuses Results: Democrats 2012

√ Bernie Sanders: 37.7%

Joe Biden: 27.9%
Hillary Clinton: 21.5%
Brian Schweitzer: 10.3%
Other: 2.6%

Romney and Huckabee Fall Short in Iowa

Mitt Romney's effort to perform well in the Iowa Caucuses failed to pay off. The Former Massachusetts Governor finished third with barley 19 percent of the vote. He now limps into New Hampshire, where his campaign is hoping for a comeback. Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, the winner four years ago finished six behind Ron Paul. Once a favorite for the state, was displaced by Michele Bachmann, who captured the conservative grassroots element of the party that propelled Huckabee to victory four years ago. While he did not drop out, he conceded the results were not as he hoped.

Results Unclear; Gingrich Declares A Victory

The Former House Speaker declared himself a winner, despite the final results being unclear. "The fact that we could go from the bottom of the polls to the top two is remarkable," Gingrich said, "and perhaps the biggest understatement of the year that this race is anything but decided. It's going to go on, this campaign is going to go on, because we have momentum."

Bachmann Addresses Supporters

Michele Bachmann addressed her supporters, shortly after Newt Gingrich spoke to his crowd. While the results are unclear and even though Bachmann maintains a narrow lead, the wind has been knocked out of her sails and the Minnesota Congressman spoke humbly about her showing in Iowa and thanked her supporters, family and staff for their efforts. "We're in this race for the long haul."

Iowa Caucuses Results: Republicans 2012 (99% Reported)

Michele Bachmann: 27.55% (+0.06%)
Newt Gingrich: 27.49%
Mitt Romney: 19.10%
Ron Paul: 12.01%
Mike Huckabee: 10.55%
Bobby Jindal: 1.78%
Other: 1.49%
George Pataki: 0.03%

[NHI]

Bachmann No Longer On Top

Michele Bachmann is the winner of the Iowa Caucuses, but the media and Newt Gingrich are calling it a tie! The Minnesota Congresswoman inched through with 27.53 percent, compared to Newt Gingrich's 27.51 percent. Bachmann was officially projected the winner in the early morning hours and edged out the former House Speaker, who came out of nowhere to a surprise second place finish, by 0.02 percent. The Bachmann Campaign is spinning the results as victory, which it is, but it is hardly a credible one. The one-time frontrunner appears to be dethroned as the campaign heads into New Hampshire, where the Gingrich is touting its new momentum as the conservative alternative to Mitt Romney, the moderate favorite in New Hampshire.

Gingrich Surging in National Polls

Newt Gingrich addresses supporters in Concord, NH. Most poll national polls put the former House Speaker in second or tied for second in the race for the GOP nomination.

WMUR Poll: New Hampshire Primary Republicans (January 2012)

Mitt Romney: 31%
Michele Bachmann: 17%
Newt Gingrich: 17%
Ron Paul: 14%
Mike Huckabee: 5%
George Pataki: 1%
Undecided: 15%

Mike Huckabee Calls it Quits, Backs Bachmann.

Following his poor showing in Iowa, Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee is dropping out, and endorsing winner Michele Bachmann, calling her "the conservative who stands for our values and is the voice our party needs." Huckabee, had hoped to carry on until the South Carolina Primary, but his dismal showing in Iowa and poor fundraising has ended any hopes of a comeback for the one time conservative darling.

Gallup Poll: Republican Nomination January 2012

Michele Bachmann: 20%

Mitt Romney: 18%
Newt Gingrich: 18%
Ron Paul: 13%
George Pataki: 0.6%
Undecided: 30.4%

[Enderman]

Romney vs Bachmann vs Gingrich... holy crap.

Ironically supporting Bachmann for now.

[NHI]

Sarah Palin Hits Romney & Gingrich

Struggling to regain traction, in the wake of Newt Gingrich's second place stunner in Iowa and Mitt Romney's ground game in New Hampshire, the Bachmann campaign has turned to their biggest supporter Sarah Palin as the race heats up between the Minnesota Congresswoman and the Former House Speaker the Governor of Massachusetts. Palin blasted the two GOP contenders are "representatives of the past" and touted Bachmann as the "future of conservatism" and the "Reagan we've been looking for". It's a hard sell in New Hampshire. Palin's back of Bachmann, early on was seen as a boost to her campaign, but given she only narrowly won the Caucuses and in far behind in  New Hampshire and losing in South Carolina, it is easy to say Sarah Palin's impact may be limited at best.

Biden Tries to Regain Footing in New Hampshire

Vice President Biden is on the ropes after being crushed by Independent Senator Bernie Sanders in the Iowa Caucuses. The Biden Campaign arrives in New Hampshire, beaten and trailing in third place, a sad state of affairs for the incumbent Vice President. Hillary Clinton, who continues to hold onto her lead in New Hampshire, wrote off the Caucuses back in late 2015, when it became apparent the race was between Sanders and Biden. Given the amount of time and money spent in Iowa, Biden has come up the biggest loser and has lost ground even in national polls. Most find him either tied with Hillary Clinton or in a competitive spot for second with Bernie Sanders.

The other remaining contender Brian Schweitzer is counting on New Hampshire to put him in the top tier. The latest WMUR poll shows some traction for the Montana Governor who has held over 100 town halls in the state.

Gallup Poll: Democratic Nomination January 2012

Hillary Clinton: 24%
Joe Biden: 22%
Bernie Sanders: 22%
Brian Schweitzer: 10%
Undecided: 22%

WMUR Poll: NH Democratic Primary (January 2012)

Hillary Clinton: 28% (-0)
Bernie Sanders: 25% (+1)
Joe Biden: 17% (-2)
Brian Schweitzer: 15% (+4)
Undecided: 15%

Sanders "encouraged" by polls in NH, "growing more confident after Iowa"

Clinton: "Iowa Picks Corn, but New Hampshire Picks President!"

Romney Holding Strong in New Hampshire, Despite Gingrich Surge

Mitt Romney holds onto his lead in the New Hampshire primary, though Newt Gingrich is surging after his strong finish in Iowa behind Michele Bachmann. The latest Suffolk University Poll puts Romney at 30 percent, with Gingrich now in second place with 18 percent. Bachmann has fallen back to third with only 16 percent.

Pataki Calls it Quits Before the New Hampshire Primary

Struggling in the polls and with little to no funding, Former New York Governor George Pataki withdrew from the Republican Race, two days before the New Hampshire Primary and endorsed Mitt Romney, calling him "the only choice in the race to support." Pataki was averaging 1 percent or less in polls conducted for the primary.

√ Hillary Clinton Projected to Win NH Democratic Primary

She Did It, Again!

Hillary Clinton, much like she did eight years ago bet her campaign comeback on New Hampshire it eight years later it paid off. The Former Secretary of State won the primary over Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, who finished second. Perhaps the biggest surprise of the night was the continued slide of Vice President Joe Biden, who finished fourth, behind Vice President Brian Schweitzer, further evidence that this primary is a rejection of the status quo and very much so the Presidency of Barack Obama. Schweitzer had hoped for a stronger showing in the primary, but his campaign is touting their third place finish over Joe Biden as a win.

In her victory speech, the former Secretary of State thanked her supporters, and like she did eight years ago appreciated New Hampshire's role in changing the dynamics of the race and helping her find her voice. Still Bernie Sanders finished second, just four points behind Clinton, further underscoring his strength as a candidate.

Democratic New Hampshire Primary: Results (2012)

√ Hillary Clinton: 33.8%
Bernie Sanders: 30.9%
Brian Schweitzer: 17.6%
Joe Biden: 15.8%
Other: 1.9%

Romney Comes out on Top in New Hampshire, Gingrich Second

Mitt Romney won the New Hampshire Primary, but Newt Gingrich continues to surge, finishing second to Romney and cutting his once insurmountable lead in half. Romney declared his victory in New Hampshire as a sign of a campaign reboot and that he was going to go onto South Carolina and win again. For Romney, the hopes of winning South Carolina are a strong possibility. Gingrich and Bachmann could split the conservative vote in the southern state and thus allow the moderate Romney to slip through. Polls currently show a tie with Romney and Gingrich in the state.

Republican New Hampshire Primary: Results (2012)

√ Mitt Romney: 34.5%
Newt Gingrich: 25.7%
Michele Bachmann: 19.9%
Ron Paul: 18.8%
Other: 1.1%

CNN/ORC Poll: South Carolina Republicans (2012)

Mitt Romney: 26%
Newt Gingrich: 26%
Michele Bachmann: 17%
Ron Paul: 13%
Undecided: 18%

CNN/ORC Poll: South Carolina Democrats (2012)

Joe Biden: 27%
Hillary Clinton: 26%
Bernie Sanders: 20%
Brian Schweitzer: 10%
Undecided: 17%

[tmthforu94]

Let's go, Mitt!

[An American Tail: Fubart Goes West]

BS/BS 2012

Also, there's a mention of a "Vice President Brian Schweitzer;" I assume that you meant Montana Governor?

[NHI]

The Choice for Democrats

Clinton, Biden and Sanders are the big three vying to become the Democratic nominee

The Republican Contenders

Romney and Gingrich appear to be the strongest competitors for the GOP Nomination.

Bernie Sanders Wins Nevada Caucuses

Overlooked, in the height of the Clinton/Biden showdown in South Carolina, Bernie Sanders, Vermont Senator and winner of the Iowa Caucuses scored another win. The Caucuses held on January 21st, only counted for the Democrats (The Republican will hold their in February). Sanders, who has placed a great deal of focus and organization in the caucuses won a decisive victory over Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, both of whom did not seriously contest the contest. Sanders won with 40 percent of the vote (the highest vote total of any candidate this primary) compared to Clinton who garned only 29 percent. Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer, also contested the caucuses, but finished third, taking 21 percent of the vote. Vice President Biden finished fourth with only 19 percent.

Biden Betting it all on South Carolina

The Vice President suffered a bruising defeat in Iowa and an embarrassing last place finish in New Hampshire. South Carolina is the make-it-or-break-it state for Joe Biden. "His hope and pray state," according to some close advisors. The Vice President has been steadily losing ground in the wake of Bernie Sanders' insurgent rise. Biden is staking the future of his entire campaign on a victory in South Carolina, without it, many Democratic operatives believe the Vice President will have no choice but to back out.

South Carolina, proved a successful primary for Barack Obama eight years ago, in cementing his lead over Hillary Clinton. Biden faces a different challenge. His boss is not on the ballot, and while Biden is popular among African-Americans which will be the key to him winning the state, Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has been working hard on fostering relationships and building up a strong ground game, which experts acknowledge the Vice President sorely lacks.

What he lacks in organization, he makes for up with spirits. Biden has been relentlessly campaigning around the state, even the polls show a tight race with Clinton. "I'm putting my heart and soul into this and I'm going to give it my all."

Romney v. Gingrich Race Heats Up

On the Republican side Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich continue to trade barbs with one another as they battle in South Carolina. In the most recent debate Romney continued his ongoing strategy, post New Hampshire of trying to portray Gingrich as a "career politician". Gingrich has rebuffed the charge, saying, "the only reason you didn't become a career politician is Teddy Kennedy beat you in 1994, so don't stand here with this holier than thou persona, Governor." Gingrich has also attacked Romney for being, as he calls it, "a Massachusetts Moderate", specifically calling out Romney's support for healthcare mandates, higher taxes and flip-flop on a variety of issues, including abortion.

Michele Bachmann's attempt to portray Romney as a squishy moderate, failed to resonate, so it is too early to tell if Gingrich will have any luck. As for the Minnesota Congressman, she now polls a distant third in the upcoming primary, another sign that her campaign is on last legs.

Breaking News: Too Close to Call! A Tight Race Between Biden and Clinton in SC Primary

Biden: 31.9%     Clinton: 27.9%     Sanders: 23.3%     Schweitzer: 15.9%

Breaking News: Projection: √ Romney Wins The South Carolina Primary

√ Romney: 33.7%     Gingrich: 27.2%     Bachmann: 21.6%     Paul: 16.5%

Mitt Romney is projected to win the South Carolina Primary, giving him back-to-back primary victories and setting him up in a strong position for the Florida primary at the end of January. Polls increasingly showed a tight race by Newt Gingrich, but a last minute ad-buy by the Romney campaign seems to have made the difference. Coupled, by the presence of Michele Bachmann, who likely drew conservative votes away, which other wise might have gone to Gingrich, Romney was able to building a winning coalition, much like John McCain did four years ago, with divide among the conservative vote, Romney, the moderate manages to slip through with a win and secure a much needed victory to stop the growing momentum from Gingrich.

BREAKING NEWS: √ Projection Joe Biden to Win South Carolina Primary

Still In This; Biden Makes a Comeback in South Carolina

√ Biden: 30.7%     Clinton: 26.5%     Bernie Sanders: 23.9%     Brain Schweitzer: 17.9%

2012 Primary Map:

Republicans

Mitt Romney: NH, SC

Michele Bachmann: IA

Newt Gingrich:

The Democrats

Bernie Sanders: IA, NV

Hillary Clinton: NH

Joe Biden: SC

Florida. Florida. Florida.

CNN/ORC: Poll: Joe Biden: 30%     Hillary Clinton: 28%     Bernie Sanders: 23%     Brian Schweitzer: 10%

Romney Looking More and More Like the GOP Candidate

CNN/ORC Poll: Mitt Romney: 35%     Newt Gingrich: 24%     Michele Bachmann: 17%     Ron Paul: 11%

[Kingpoleon]

If Pawlenty isn't on the ticket, or a similarly styled person, I think I'll support a Biden-Patrick ticket.

[NHI]

Breaking News: Michele Bachmann To Suspend Campaign

Michelle Bachmann, citing dropping poll numbers and third straight loss, the Minnesota Congresswoman is ending her presidential campaign, ahead of the Florida Primary. In recent days Newt Gingrich, has positioned himself as the conservative alternative to Mitt Romney, but it is too early to tell if Bachmann's exit will benefit the former House Speaker as he looks to score an upset in Florida, against Romney, who continues to lead in the Sunshine State.

For Hillary, It's All Down to Florida

Joe Biden's come from behind victory in South Carolina has relaunched his Presidential campaign, giving Hillary Clinton a serious challenge for the Democratic Nomination as the campaign moves to Florida, a state where the polls have consistently showed a slight lead for the Vice President. Clinton has spent a great deal of time and money in the state, but has yet to see her numbers move significantly enough.

Joe Biden is riding on a wave of momentum after winning South Carolina and now looks to seal up the nomination fight, by at least driving Clinton from the race by winning the Florida primary. Like Clinton, the Biden Campaign believes the Sanders candidacy is not a serious threat, despite his victories in Iowa and Nevada.

Bernie Looking Beyond Florida

Bernie Sanders acknowledges he is unlikely to win the Florida Primary, so he is instead putting his resources into future primaries, primarily caucuses before on Super Tuesday. The thought, while Clinton and Biden battle it out and Florida, Sanders is building a strong organization to take on the eventual winner of the state. "I am ready to talk about the real issues, not simply give slogan answers. I want to have a real debate and I think once the field dwindles to a one on one contest the contrasts and difference will become clear."

BREAKING NEWS: √ GINGRICH WINS FLORIDA PRIMARY

Republican Primary Goes on: Gingrich Defeats Romney in Florida

√ Gingrich: 42.8%     Romney: 40.9%     Paul: 15.3%

Newt Gingrich winning the Florida Primary, narrowly beating Mitt Romney means the Republican Primary will go on. The win comes as a stunning upset for Governor Romney who outpaced Gingrich in fundraising and organization in the state. Gingrich's Team credits a single debate between Romney and Gingrich as the deciding factor. A Gingrich spokesperson also credited the exit of Michele Bachmann as further proof of Gingrich emerging as the conservative alternative to the "Massachusetts Moderate."

Florida Democratic Primary: Too Close to Call

Florida Democratic Primary: 2012

Joe Biden: 34.5% (+4.5)
Hillary Clinton: 30.0%
Bernie Sanders: 23.6%
Brian Schweitzer: 10.9%

Breaking News: √ Joe Biden Defeats Hillary Clinton in FL Primary

Hillary Clinton Concedes the Florida Primary

Hillary Clinton conceded her defeat in Florida, but did not signal she would be dropping out.

Joe's Got the Big "Mo"

Biden addressed an enthusiastic crowd, "we've got the big mo!"

Sanders Readies to Contrasts with the Vice President

Joe Biden's victory in Florida seems to cement his status as the Democratic frontrunner and choice of the party's establishment and Bernie Sanders' couldn't be happier. While Biden addressed an estimated 500 supporters in Florida, Sanders held a rally in Minnesota to a whopping 10,000 people. Sanders looks forward to a debate of ideas and policy solutions to "tackle the major issues facing the working class."

The Sanders Rally in Minnesota: "Feel The Bern"

BREAKING NEWS: CLINTON AND OBAMA TO ENDORSE BIDEN

Democrats Unite Around Biden; Obama and Clinton back the VP

No doubt seeing the writing on the wall, after South Carolina and Florida, Hillary Clinton suspended her presidential campaign. In an email supporters, she announced she was "ending her presidential campaign and uniting around the one Democrat who will fight for the values and issues we care about. That candidate is Joe Biden, he's ben an outstanding Vice President and will be a great President."

Clinton joined President Obama at the White House, where the President formally gave his blessing to the man he hopes will be his successor. President Obama called the Vice President "a relentless fighter who isn't afraid to speak his mind and will be a tireless champion for the American people. I like Joe, I respect Joe and I want Joe to be the next President of the United States."

During her brief remarks, Clinton affirmed, she was "endorsing Biden" and "throwing her whole support behind the Vice President to the Democratic nominee." She also signaled it was time for the party to rally behind Biden, even as Brian Schweitzer and Bernie Sanders remain in the race. "We do not need a partisan exercise. As evidence by the Florida Primary on the Republican side it looks to be a long and drawn out race. We have a clear favorite. Let's unite around him so that we can defeat the Republican candidate, whoever he maybe."

The move by Clinton and Obama comes even as the Democratic Primary is far from over. Certainly, the withdrawal of Clinton marks the end of a strong challenge for the Vice President, but both Bernie Sanders and Brian Schweitzer blasted the endorsement as "politics as usual" and scolded the President for interfering in an active Democratic Primary.

Schweitzers Hits Clinton and Obama for Biden Endorsement

"Shame on them. They act like the primary is decided. We've had five contests. Forty five states to go, plus the territories. Come on, this is craziness. Let's let the voters decide, not the political class."

Sanders: Saddened by President's Endorsement, but committed to "Fight on"

Sanders: "I wish the President had waited. Hillary Clinton is free to make her own mind up, and yes, so too is the President, but we should not rush to get this primary over. We need to have a real, substantive debate about the future of this country and we need to outline and stress the difference between us who will strengthen and protect programs like social security, versus the Republicans who will cut it. Certainly, I will respect the President, and his endorsement in no way deters me. We will fight on and continue to campaign."

BREAKING NEWS: Biden Leads First Poll Since Clinton Exit

Gallup Democratic Primary Poll: February 2012

Joe Biden: 40% (+11)
Bernie Sanders: 29%
Brian Schweitzer: 14%
Undecided: 18%

Gallup Republican Primary Poll: February 2012

Mitt Romney: 35% (+2)
Newt Gingrich: 33%
Ron Paul: 15%
Undecided: 17%

Biden Acts Like Nominee, even as Primary Continues

"Whether it's Romney or Gingrich it's all the same folks. THey don't care about you!"

February 7th Contests:

Minnesota: Democratic Caucuses "Minnesota Feels the Bern"

√ Bernie Sanders: 44.3%
Joe Biden: 37.9%
Brian Schweitzer: 15.8%
Other: 2.0%

Minnesota: Republican Caucuses "Romney Squeaks By"

√ Mitt Romney: 42.6%

Newt Gingrich: 41.8%
Ron Paul: 14.7%
Other: 0.9%

Colorado: Republican Caucuses "Gingrich Dominates

√ Newt Gingrich: 45.2%
Mitt Romney: 38.2%
Ron Paul: 16.0%
Other: 0.6%

Missouri: Democratic Primary "Biden Hangs On"

√ Joe Biden: 41.5%
Bernie Sanders: 36.9%
Brian Schweitzer: 19.6%
Other: 2.0%

Missouri: Republican Primary "Gingrich on a Roll"

√ Newt Gingrich: 49.9%
Mitt Romney: 34.6%
Ron Paul: 14.5%

[NHI]

Battle for the Soul of the Democratic Party

Vice President Joe Biden, went behind the curtain, leaving the state after spending a decent amount of time working the rope line at a rally in Boston, Massachusetts. Biden received the backing of the state's governor and possible Vice Presidential candidate Deval Patrick. Polls show a tight race for Biden in the state, and more so than that, his rallies are paling in comparison to Bernie Sanders' in terms of energy and size.

Almost seven hundred miles away in Cleveland, Bernie Sanders spoke to an at-capacity crowd. The biggest political rally the city has seen since, Barack Obama four years ago. Sanders spoke for well over an hour, but did not mention the Vice President, Hillary Clinton, President Obama or even the Republicans. Instead, he spoke about the need for a "political revolution in America" and how the middle class has been shrinking and left behind by politicians "on both sides". This kind of energy and enthusiasm has Democrats nervous, more importantly the Biden campaign. Sanders, an Independent, has state he intends to seek the Democratic nomination, but has not unequivocally ruled out a future run. "I never deal in absolutes. Right now I'm concentrating on the Democratic primary."

Democrats fear a hypothetical third party run by Sanders would damage Biden and hand the election to the Republicans. There is also a fear of a prolonged primary hurting Biden as well. Juan Williams of Fox News said, "If the Republican rally around a candidate quickly and the Democratic one goes on for months and months it'll hurt whoever becomes the Democratic nominee, because the Republican will be able to set the agenda."

Joe Biden continues to lead Bernie Sanders nationally, but ahead of Super Tuesday, the Independent Senator continues to see his numbers climb. Gallup puts the Vice President at 39 percent, and Sanders at 30 percent. Brian Schweitzer, polls with only 15 percent.

Romney Strikes Back: Regains his edge over Gingrich in series of big wins

On the ropes after losing Florida and few states after the Sunshine State primary, Mitt Romney struck back with a vengeance, beating Newt Gingrich in the lead up to Super Tuesday. The Former Massachusetts Governor, who still holds the advantage in fundraising over Gingrich buried him in "negative attacks", which even some Republicans called "borderline Democrat-style ads". Romney went after Gingrich's time as Speaker and his change in positions from health care to climate change to the bailout. The bet paid off.

Romney came out ahead (as expected) in the Maine Republican Caucuses, winning with 45 percent to Gingrich's 24 percent. Ron Paul finished a surprising second with 30 percent. Romney, trounced Gingrich in Michigan (49% - 34%), the state where Romney was born and his father George served as Governor. In Arizona, Gingrich kept is closer, but Romney still prevailed, 45% to 39%.

Heading into Super Tuesday, national polls put Romney back in the lead over Gingrich. The former House Speaker even acknowledges his campaign needs "sizable victories" on Super Tuesday in order to remain competitive against Romney going forward.

[/]

Great!

Can you do some maps?

[NHI]

Democratic Primary Map: Post- Super Tuesday

Bernie Sanders: 570

Joe Biden: 553

Brian Schweitzer: 21

Hillary Clinton: 140

Super Tuesday Results: Democratic Primary

Oklahoma:

√ Joe Biden: 44.5%
Bernie Sanders: 36.7%
Brian Schweitzer: 17.8%
Other: 1.0%

Massachusetts:

√ Bernie Sanders: 51.2%

Joe Biden: 39.6%
Brian Schweitzer: 8.3%
Other: 0.9%

Colorado:

√ Bernie Sanders: 46.5%
Joe Biden: 39.2%
Brian Schweitzer: 13.4%
Other: 0.9%

Ohio:

√ Bernie Sanders: 47.5%

Joe Biden: 44.4%
Brian Schweitzer: 7.1%
Other: 1.0%

Tennessee:

√ Joe Biden: 47.5%
Bernie Sanders: 38.5%
Brian Schweitzer: 13.2%
Other: 0.8%

Georgia:

√ Joe Biden: 46.5%

Bernie Sanders: 42.9%
Brian Schweitzer: 9.6%
Other: 1.0%

Virginia:

√ Joe Biden: 48.1%
Bernie Sanders: 44.9%
Brian Schweitzer: 6.1%
Other: 0.9%

Vermont:

√ Bernie Sanders: 83.5%
Joe Biden: 11.6%
Brian Schweitzer: 4.9%

Super Tuesday Results:

Bernie Sanders: 4/8
Joe Biden: 4/8

Republican Primary Map: Post Super Tuesday

Delegate Count: Republicans

Mitt Romney: 316

Newt Gingrich: 245
Michele Bachmann: 12
Ron Paul: 17

Alaska:

√ Newt Gingrich: 39.9%
Mitt Romney: 35.6%
Ron Paul: 23.5%
Other: 1.0%

Georgia:

√ Newt Gingrich: 58.9%
Mitt Romney: 36.5%
Ron Paul: 3.7%
Other: 0.9%

Idaho:

√ Mitt Romney: 51.4%
Newt Gingrich: 44.1%
Ron Paul: 4.5%

Massachusetts:

√ Mitt Romney: 82.0%
Newt Gingrich: 11.4%
Ron Paul: 6.6%

North Dakota:

√ Mitt Romney: 50.5%
Newt Gingrich: 44.9%
Ron Paul: 3.7%
Other: 0.9%

Ohio:

√ Mitt Romney: 51.4%
Newt Gingrich: 43.4%
Ron Paul: 3.8%
Other: 1.4%

Oklahoma:

√ Newt Gingrich: 53.4%
Mitt Romney: 42.9%
Ron Paul: 3.7%

Tennessee:

√ Newt Gingrich: 47.5%
Mitt Romney: 45.5%
Ron Paul: 6.0%
Other: 1.0%

Vermont:

√ Mitt Romney: 75.4%
Ron Paul: 16.7%
Newt Gingrich: 7.9%

Virginia:

√ Mitt Romney: 55.9%
Newt Gingrich: 39.3%
Ron Paul: 4.8%

Romney Dominates on Super Tuesday

Super Tuesday Results: It's a Draw Between Bernie and Joe

Schweitzer Drops Out; Offers No Endorsement

CNN/ORC POLL: Republican Nomination Post Super Tuesday (Romney +16)

Mitt Romney: 45%
Newt Gingrich: 29%
Ron Paul: 11%
Undecided: 15%

CNN/ORC POLL: Democratic Nomination Post Super Tuesday (Biden +4)

Joe Biden: 42%
Bernie Sanders: 38%
Undecided: 20%

[NHI]

Gingrich addresses Supporters in Georgia

"We've been outspent, we've been attacked, but we're not beaten," Newt Gingrich told his supporters shortly after the AP projected Mitt Romney the winner of the Ohio primary. Gingrich won a few primaries but the former House Speaker needed a big win on Super Tuesday to justify his campaign continuing. He staked out a strong effort in Ohio, but the Buckeye State went to Mitt Romney. The road to the nomination for Gingrich is unclear, his campaign is already running low on funds and staff. He refuses to drop out, but the math and money will ultimately become an issue for Gingrich.

Sanders Rallies Democrats in Alabama

15,000 people turned out for Bernie Sanders. Is it s a fluke, or can he be stopped?

Just How Much Trouble is Joe Biden In?

Despite the recent surge by Sanders, Democratic insiders and political experts ssay the nomination is Biden's too lose.

Gallup Tracking Poll: Democrats (Biden narrowly leads Sanders)

Joe Biden: 43% (+2)
Bernie Sanders: 41%
Undecided: 16%

Gallup Tracking Poll: Republicans (Romney Surges past Gingrich)

Mitt Romney: 48% (+20)
Newt Gingrich: 28%
Ron Paul: 11%
Undecided: 13%

Gallup General Election Poll: Statistical Tie Between Romney & Biden

Romney: 45%     Biden: 45%

Gallup General Election Poll: Biden Narrowly Leads Gingrich

Biden: 46%     Gingrich: 43%

Gallup General Election Poll: Sanders Struggles Against Romney & Gingrich

Sanders garners 41%, compared to Romney and Gingrich who take 49% and 47% respectively.

[Bigby]

Holy sh**t, Gingrich is being competent with his campaign here.

Also, bye bye Clinton. You won't be missed.

[NHI]

March 13, 2012: Alabama, Mississippi and Utah

Biden: I'm running to finish the Work we Started in 2008

Joe Biden came out on top in two of the three contests on Tuesday night, winning Alabama and Mississippi primaries, while Bernie Sanders won the Utah Caucuses. The Vice President, who has stuck to largely attacking his potential Republican opponents, rather than attacking Bernie Sanders seems to be a strategy the Vice President and his team are continuing to use. "We believe the real debate is with the Republicans, with the people who want to turn back the clock on the progress we've made," said John Podesta, a former Clinton ally who has now signed on with the Biden campaign. 

In his victory speech, Biden thanked his supporters and said his presidency would be to build on the work of Barack Obama and keep the country moving forward. "America is on the road to recovery. Under Newt Gingrich or Mitt Romney America will only fall backwards. We're not going to let that happen!"

Alabama Primary:

√ Joe Biden: 58.8%
Bernie Sanders: 38.9%
Other: 2.3%

Mississippi Primary:

√ Joe Biden: 57.1%
Bernie Sanders: 40.9%
Other: 2.0%

Utah Caucuses:

√ Bernie Sanders: 55.0%
Joe Biden: 45.0%

Gingrich: Unfinished

Running on a shoestring budget and refocusing his efforts to that of a true insurgent campaign, Newt Gingrich won the Kansas Caucuses with 53 percent of the vote, compared to Mitt Romney's 45 percent. Gingrich called his victory "a clear sign that this campaign is not over, despite insistence by the media and the party elites. The people of America are still speaking and will decide when they've said their piece." In the other two contests in Guam and the U.S. Virgin Island, Romney won overwhelming, though Gingrich did not contest the contests.

Romney Adviser Hands Gingrich An Opening

Interviewed on CNN, Senior Romney Campaign adviser Eric Fernstrom responded to a question over some of the conservative positions Romney has taken during the primary, including calling himself a "severely, conservative Republican governor". Fernstrom rebuffed thoughts that Romney was isolating the broader, general electorate. "After the primaries every campaign has what's called an etch-a-sketch moment, where you sort of redo and forget everything from the primaries and start new for the general." Republican candidate Newt Gingrich jumped on the comment as further evidence that Romney is a "flip-flopping moderate" who will say anything to be President.

Gingrich Hits Romney on Trust

Speaking in Illinois ahead of the next set of contests, Newt Gingrich attacked Mitt Romney on the issue of trust. He told a crowd of supporters in Chicago "Governor Romney is unworthy of earning the voter's trust, because he himself is untruthful. He takes conservatives for granted, he panders and tells you what you want to hear, but then when he leaves he says another thing." Gingrich continued his assault on Romney later on CNN, calling into question Mitt Romney's character. When asked if he considered Mitt Romney to be a liar, Gingrich responded in first by saying, "he's said dishonest things about me. He's distorted my record. He's covered up his own record." When asked again, if he would use the word liar, Gingrich responded in kind, "yes." 

The Unlikeable Candidate

Mitt Romney has steadily seen his favorable numbers decline as the contest between he and Gingrich heats up. The Former Massachusetts Governor holds a 31 percent favorability rating, and a 49% unfavorable rating.  The Romney campaign dismisses thoughts that these numbers will last, but it has some Republican leaders nervous over the viability of their likely general election candidate. "He's tied with the Vice President, which is good," an unnamed Republican leader said, "but the longer this thing with Gingrich continues it hurts him, it hurts the party brand and it starts to beg the question, if Romney can't handle Newt how will he handle the Democrats."

BREAKING NEWS: √ GINGRICH WINS ILLINOIS PRIMARY

√ Gingrich: 50.7%     Romney: 47.4%     

As Romney Slumps, Biden Rebounds

Vice President Biden is joined on stage by President Obama at his victory rally in Chicago.

Joe Biden seemed to stall the last of Bernie Sanders' momentum in the Illinois Primary, Tuesday. The Vice President soundly defeated the Vermont Senator by a margin of 64 to 35 percent. The victory comes as the Vice President wishes to concentrate more on the general election than a prolonged primary. While Bernie Sanders has given no indication of dropping out, Biden's whooping victory may be the first sign of the end of Sanders' insurgent campaign.

Even as the Vice President looks more and more like the presumptive Democratic nominee, Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich continue to battle it out for the GOP nomination. Romney suffered a significant blow to Gingrich in Illinois, where the Former Speaker of the House edged out Romney by a 3 point margin. Many analyst believe it was the slip up from Romney adviser Eric Fernstrom, who seemed to suggest Romney did not believe many of the conservative positions he has been taking during the course of the primary. Gingrich capitalized on the gaffe and has be able to increase his fundraising numbers and raise his profile.  "Tonight is a sure sign we're on our way to winning the nomination!"