Romney Rocks Granite State Roundtable

Lauded by conservative pundits and focus groups alike, Romney's tour de force in tonight's New Hampshire roundtable is virtually unanimous. Following the previous night's gang-style attacks by his opponents in the ABC Facebook debate, Romney rebounded with enthusiasm, confidence, and substantive answers.

Tonight, Romney emphasized his business credentials and successfully communicated his devotion to a well-rounded conservative (economic, social, and foreign policy) platform, in stark contrast to his opponents. Viewers witnessed a capable executive who was confident in his abilities and, most importantly, unafraid to stand up to his opponents on the issues of *immigration,* health care reform, and conservative fiscal policy. The frequent interruptions (applause or 'over-speaking'), snide personal attacks, and goofy questions were largely absent. In this civil, more conversational atmosphere, Romney shined like a future President of the United States.

Although it will be a challenge to repeat such a high level of success, a similarly persuasive performance in this Thursday's FOX News debate in Myrtle Beach would greatly enhance Romney's credibility in the Palmetto State.

From Powerline Blog's Paul Mirengoff:

Mitt Romney, in my view, was the winner. His answers were crisp, knowledgeable, and poised. He was solid on each substantive issue and effective in defending his so-called attack ads. My guess is that he's cemented himself as the choice of Republicans in New Hampshire, but still faces the prospect of having independents override that choice.

From Powerline Blog's Scott Johnson:

I score this round for Romney and am calling the event for Romney.

From NRO/The Corner's Mark Levin:

I agree with the Fox focus group in that Romney was great. The question is whether there's enough time to recover and whether independents, who tend to lean liberal, give a damn. But New Hampshire Republicans should. But maybe I'm wrong. I thought Fred was great for a second night in a row, but the focus group did not.

From Townhall's Hugh Hewitt:

Tonight's debate --by far the best of this long campaign-- allowed Mitt Romney to display not only a first class temperament but also a first class intellect.

...
First, Senator McCain still either does not understand the immigration fiasco of last year or his temperament does not allow him to admit his error and take responsibility for them.

Second, the sea-change in John McCain's attitude from last night to tonight confirms that the public reacted extremely negatively to Saturday night McCain. I don't think his calmer demeanor tonight can undo the memory of yesterday.

Third, Governor Huckabee had numerous disastrous moments tonight, but none worse than his attempt to dodge the tax hike issue, which he did not successfully do. The Luntz group confirmed this.

Next, Rudy had an excellent night as well, but most of the time and drama was between Romney and McCain.

Finally, Senator Thompson is emerging as the new Dick Cheney --not likely to run a winning campaign for the presidency, but a very compelling potential vice president for the reasons that Cheney helped the ticket in 2000.

The comments of FOX News pollster Frank Luntz's focus group sealed the victory. (See YouTube video below.)



I can't wait to read the response of McCain's official South Carolina campaign blog The Palmetto Scoop tomorrow. Maybe, like this and this, the Scoop will simply pretend tonight's roundtable never happened.