 |
| Governor Chris Christie |
During the first week without a GOP debate in about three
weeks, it almost feels like there is nothing to discuss in regards of the
Republican race to the White House. However, despite the lack of televised
debate, republican candidates managed to create headlines. This past week a few
significant things happened. Herman Cain has managed to get the most attention
he has ever had with the release of his financial plan, the 9-9-9 Plan. Since then
he has made the news by calling out the other candidates. The most interesting
is his statement regarding the hunting camp in Texas owned by Rick Perry and
his father. The name of the camp before Perry became part of the lease was “N*****head”,
Cain reacted to this fact and called it “insulting”. This subject has expectedly
caused trouble for former governor Rick Perry. He has been on the defensive
ever since the news came out about the camps discriminatory name. He claims
that the sign that displayed the name was painted over and eventually removed.
Perry has consistently gained attention from the media, although it always
seems to be negative.
Another headline
stealing Republican is not even a candidate, yet. New Jersey Governor Chris
Christie is still considering a run for presidency although his time to decide
is running out considering the vote for nomination is 100 days away. Christie
has been across the country making speeches and stirring up rumors about his
potential run for 2012. Even though he
has not finalized his bid, he is already facing criticism from candidates. Herman
Cain has called him too liberal and there have been comments from almost
everyone about the Governors weight. It seems that the Republican Party is
unsatisfied with their current plethora of candidates and wants to enlist
Christie in the race.
 |
| Republican Candidate Rick Santorum, Source: LA Times |
One
candidate that has consistently avoided media coverage good and bad has been
former Senator Rick Santorum. Unfortunately for Santorum, during an intense
presidential campaign, no media attention is a bad thing. However after consistent
and impressive performances in GOP debates, thanks to Rick Perry, Santorum may
be gaining some momentum. During his 27th trip to South Carolina
since December 2009, Santorum struggled to convey his social conservatism and
convince potential supporters he can be president. The New York Times was able
to interview him before an appearance at a chicken restaurant. He had no
entourage and just as much fan fare. It seems not many people even recognize
the candidate. Doubts about Santorum’s ability to win the nomination are felt
within his own party. A big reason for this was his inability to win his third term
for Senator of Pennsylvania. Many believe if he has been thrown out of his own
state he will be unable to win over the American people.
Santorum’s
campaign for the presidential nomination has definitely been lackluster. He has
only raised $582,000 through the end of June which is miniscule compared to
fellow candidates like Herman Cain who raised $2.5 million. Santorum also has
no campaign headquarters or a speech writer as well as no advertising budget. It
seems that the lack of funding is what will really hurt Santorum in the end. Despite
all this, Santorum is dedicated. He is determined to win the Evangelical and
Christian vote, hoping that his social conservatism will appeal to that crowd. These
are the same beliefs along with brash statements against same-sex marriage,
abortion, and the repeal of “don’t ask don’t tell” that have gotten the former Senator
in trouble. Nonetheless, with his decent debate performance and critical
statements about fellow candidates, Santorum hopes to break through into American
mainstream. Is it me or are these candidates starting to sound like struggling
musicians?
Sources:
No comments:
Post a Comment