Romney decision kept close to the vest

Posted: Thursday, February 07, 2008 1:49 PM by Domenico Montanaro
Filed Under: 2008, Romney

From NBC's Chris Donovan
Word hadn't traveled to many in the room before Romney spoke. A whole group of Romney student supporters near me in the room were completely shocked to hear Romney announce he was dropping out despite at least Blackberry reception. One apparent supporter whispered "unbelievable" -- and by the time I made it to the Romney exhibit booth after it had already been abandoned, while there was a line.

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Comments

He s a MORMON. Repubs hate anyone who isn't white or "christian".Poor foolish Mitt doesn't even know his own party secretly hates him.

JeanneGA (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:00 PM)

Just thre more chumps to go. Huckabee, Paul, and Clinton!!!

Charles W, Los Angeles (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:00 PM)

Classy.

Don Portland Me (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:04 PM)

I think Romney made the right decision by dropping out. I would hope he will come out strong for McCain. The republican party should now come together and quite trying to see who is the most conservative. The republicans must unite in order to beat Hillary or Obama. McCain was the best one to get independents and conserative democrats, which the republicans will need to win a national election.

Robert, Sacramento, CA (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:12 PM)

WHY DOES SENATOR OBAMA REFUSE TO HOLD ANY FURTHER DEBATES WITH SENATOR CLINTON ?

Virgina Miller, Alexandria, Va. (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:17 PM)

Can you say Vice-President Huckabee? This had to have been a deal cut prior to super Tuesday. What a horrifying ticket, McCain-Huckabee... a gung-ho hawk with a theocrat for a side-kick. Their campaign slogan? Kill 'em all, let God sort 'em out later! Truly spine-chilling.

Doug, San Diego (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:19 PM)

I agree Robert. Maybe when some of the independents, or all moderates for that matter, see Hillary and Obama fighting tooth and nail to the end, they'll see why this country needs someone who can compromise, not someone who sling more mud than anyone else.

The only way to keep this country great is to remember the value of unity, and Obama and Hillary know nothing of the word.

Joe, Pensacola (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:21 PM)

The real news is that the Republicans have their candidate for the fall. The Democrats are looking to have a brokered convention. All this only helps the Republicans.

Jarrett Greggs (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:21 PM)

Virgina, maybe Obama would rather spend his time talking to the people of America, instead of explaining to Hillary why she has so much trouble making the right choices on Iraq, healthcare, social security, and energy policy?

There will be future debates, just not one a week, because that would be stupid and a rediculous waste of time.

Ron, TX (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:23 PM)

Hey Doug, ANY combination with the name "Clinton" in it makes "McCain-Huckabee" about as scary as "Blues Clues." Please tell me she's not your candidate if you think "McHuckacain" is scary.

Joe, Pensacola (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:29 PM)

I prefer to refer to the ticket as McCan't and Huckleberry.

Ol' Lefty, Westminster, Maryland (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:31 PM)

"The republican party should now come together and quite trying to see who is the most conservative. The republicans must unite in order to beat Hillary or Obama. "

Agreed. It is IMPERATIVE we continue the destructive, foolish, wasteful, world-angering Bush policies if we are to continue being the most arrogant and brutal war mongers on the planet.

Vote Republican (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:31 PM)

This proves a couple of things. Mitt was a liar (he promised to go all the way as recently as Tuesday night) and even though sadly you CAN buy many of our politicians, you can't buy the people!!! Mitt would have just been another rich guy who doesn't understand or care about the majority of people in this country (or in other words just another republican)!!!

Amy (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:38 PM)

His speech was gracious, heart-felt, and inspiring. He definitely went out on a good note.

Anyone but Huckabee, Los Angeles, CA (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:38 PM)

A McCain-Huckabee ticket would be a losing ticket. Huckabee wants a theocracy and most Americans dont. Huckabee is staying in the race to position himself to run in 2012. Besides, when all the stuff comes out about him I don't think that Arkansas hillbilly would stand a chance. McCain lost a lot of credibility when he did an about-face and kissed Bush's ring.

GAB, Austin, TX (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:38 PM)

WHY DOES SENATOR OBAMA REFUSE TO HOLD ANY FURTHER DEBATES WITH SENATOR CLINTON ?

Virgina Miller, Alexandria, Va.

BECAUSE SHE IS OUT OF MONEY AND NEEDS THE FREE ADVERTISING.

Henry, Somerville, MA (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:40 PM)

Obama refuses to debate Clinton ,why ?????????????????????????????????????

Paula (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:40 PM)

Virgina Miller, Alexandria, Va. (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:17 PM)
So that he doesn't help her get free air time? I'm pretty sure he is in to win, not help Hillary win. She would do the same if her fortunes were reversed. Her demands are also a barometer of who is ahead and who is behind.

Yes We Are!

Gary Schear, bozeman Montana (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:41 PM)

Actually, GAB, I would not be surprised to see Huckabee pull out of the campaign in the next couple of days. His and McCain's mission has been accomplished. Romney is out. McCain/Huckabee ticket is a done deal now, and Mike need not spend another cent. Let's see what happens....

Pete Caloger Bushkill, PA 18324 (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:44 PM)

Perhaps the best thing that Romney ever did for the country is drop $30 million of his own money into his losing "campaign in search of the real man". That really puts my impending $600 into perspective. Thanks for the economic stimulus Romney! Now don't let the door smack your behind on the way out.

yeahwhatever (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:45 PM)

@Virginia Miller: Probably because he's trying to run a campaign, not help Clinton get free publicity for hers.

faboo mama (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:45 PM)

Hmmm...a mcwar-hucksterism ticket...that would be scary..."we're going to bomb them before we save them" kind of administration...

Rick (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:50 PM)

Mitt, I hope you come Back after dirty McCain and Huckabee Loose to Hillary in '08 and after the 4 years of that Hellish Nightmare, we can finally have someone smart in the office... Let this be a lesson to Republicans everywhere Go with the SMART GUY the proven effective leader. If you go with a guy who has basicly been enfranchised in Washington then you will get more of the same, McCain will not ever be effective he is likely not to win the GE and we will have yet another Clinton in the office.

Come Back in 2012 Mitt!

Doug (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:58 PM)

The republicans have a lot of work to do now, not less like many of them claim. McCain is not going to out debate either Hillary of Obama. If you notice the number of Democrats that voted, it should be obvious that they vastly outnumbered the Republican voters. The majority of Dem. would be happy and supportive of either Clinton or Obama. There are too many Republicans that were looking for a Reagan conservative and now don't know what in the heck they will do in November. Sixty percent of Rep. voters think Bush has done a "good job"! Maybe that is their biggest problem. Afraid to admit how badly he messed up the United States of America. There are not many people that feel sympathetic for the demise of the Republican party, blame it on Reagan conservatives.

A.Brocco, Albuquerque,NM (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:59 PM)

Amy,

When Huckleberry drops out after Virgina's primary, will you call him a LIAR too???

Dave, North Carolina (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:00 PM)

GORE couldn't even win HOME STATE-having served as SENATOR.

DEMS would abandon clintons/black guy FOR GORE-TOMORROW.

jj (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:08 PM)

People like whoever posted as "Vote Republican" are the reason there's no bipartisan successes in our government. Get over yourself, and start pointing the finger at everyone, because, since you apparently forgot, there's more than one party in more than one job running this country. You try to make yourself part of something important by screaming "Down with Republicans" and don't even take the time to look at the whole picture -- the post your quoted is one of those who is trying to unite, but you count him out because of his affiliation? While Obama and Hillary run circles around each other over and over and over? But you don't care, as long as you feel like you're part of something big, right? Do you feel better about yourself?

I've got to go buy one those blindfolds. Looks like a lot of fun.

Joe, Pensacola (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:13 PM)

Virginia (earlier comment),

Senator Obama debated Senator Clinton time after time. The only reason why she is calling for a debate a week is because she is running out of money. Obama's funding keeps rolling in, Hillary's is drying up. Kind of tells you something doesn't it? Obama has little to nothing to gain by giving Hillary access to free press.

D. Hargrave (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:13 PM)

close to the vest is right! he didn't even tell the nit-wit woman who introduced him as the savior of the Republican party, thus making her look like the imbecile we all knew she was!

Class Warrior, D.C. (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:29 PM)

Joe - Pensacola - Are you kidding me? Do you really believe the Republicans have been the ones keeping this country great by believing in unity???? We have NEVER been more divided! Bush has done a great job as the uniter.

New Independent (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:33 PM)

It would counterproductive if the word got out before Romney could make his announcement that he was going to slink back to MA. He, at this point I hope, realizes that money can't buy you (in this case) an election. Not all of the voting public is a bunch of idiots. I just wish more people voted.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:43 PM)

rainy day women #12 &35...Bob was right..even when you bow out gracefully and with class.

Lynn tijuana norte (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:54 PM)

why do people keep saying Huckabee wants a theocracy or is a theocrat? just because someone has a strong faith in something doesn't mean he thinks that something should run our government. Huckabee is a good man with strong morals and a strong respect for human life and certain institutions which should not be infringed upon. No one save the Islamic fundamentalist regimes is remotely close to theocracy or desiring one. grow up.

Philip (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 3:56 PM)

I am still blown away that the one candidate that actually presented realistic resolutions to the issues being discussed is out of the race. I don’t understand how the people of California, not to mention the rest of the Republic, would choose the candidate that almost succeeded in getting amnesty for illegal immigrants passed when illegal immigration has all but destroyed our public schools, welfare and health care systems, and put a strain on our economy.

We as a country have been talking about how we need a change in Washington. Mitt Romney is one of the most brilliant business men I have ever seen run for public office. It is my understanding that when he served as Governor of Massachusetts, he did not draw a salary. In my mind, that would be the perfect example of the public servant. He wasn’t in it for the money. He has proven that he can make more money outside of politics. His success in the business world is unmatched. Especially for organizations that were once in trouble. He put up his own money, and made an offer to the American People to use his talents and resources to turn the things that are bringing this country to its knees around and what do we as a people do?

We pick the guy that tried to force amnesty for illegal immigration on us and looked us in the eye on the last debate and lied to us about what Romney’s position really is on the war, as our Republican candidate.

We’ve got what we have got coming to us.

Mark, Dallas, Texas (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 4:04 PM)

WHY DOES SENATOR OBAMA REFUSE TO HOLD ANY FURTHER DEBATES WITH SENATOR CLINTON ?

Virgina Miller, Alexandria, Va.

BECAUSE SHE IS OUT OF MONEY AND NEEDS THE FREE ADVERTISING.

Henry, Somerville, MA (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 2:40 PM)

--------------

or .... because she has won all the debates thus far?

LSC - Montana (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 4:07 PM)

I'm sorry for those that supported Romney. I know you looked to him as a solution, but I think he made a mistake when he stepped away from his strengths.

Now we need to focus on the remaining options. We do not need a President who is content with being at war for the next 100 years.

Huckabee is the only reasonable solution to both our domestic and international issues. He's proven that he's able to unite people. Look at how well he's doing with the least funding of all the candidates.

We need a change from the status-quo politics and someone who will unit the NATION not just their party. Huckabee has done that and can do that for the Nation.

k brooks lisbon oh (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 4:13 PM)

You'd think Huckabee and Paul would drop out before Romney. Yeah, he promise to stay in for the long haul. Another broken promise. At least the other's are staying in until the end for their supporters. Says something about them.

Kathie (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 4:28 PM)

A Brocco- I agree, although I hope it's Obama that beats them.

Joe- compromise? surely you're not suggesting that is a skill that McCain possesses? Nope. He's the most stubborn politician I have ever heard of. He does what he wants. His "reaching across the aisle" wasn't compromise. It was him acting on his own maverick/liberal/moderate instincts, regardless of his constituants.

Doug, I feel the same way... although frankly, with either democrat, I would think that once elected, unless he/she really screws up, s/he'll have 8 years... (even Bush got 8 years).

Kira, Utah (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 4:29 PM)

2008 Republican Ticket: McCain and Felipe Calderón.

Voter's guarantees:
1. Four more years of GW Bush policies.
2. 100 more years of more dead American's in Iraq.
3. Amnesty for Illegal Aliens and a path way to your wallet.
4. Economy is not his strong suit, but at least he can spell it.
5. Four more years of GW Bush policies.

Peter in NH (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 5:11 PM)

JeaneGA:

I'm white, I'm Christian (if Catholics count, anyway) and I was in full support of Romney. I'm also Republican which means McCain gets my support now.

You are a political stereotypist, a bigot of sorts and ignorant in your shallowness.

Richard, Washington State (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 5:16 PM)

Virginia,
READ MY MESSAGE!!!!!!!! because he does not want to, nor does he need to.Obama is in charge. Tell Hillary to go debate herself.

lorisbay (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 5:18 PM)

Just like the right wing Repub to get rid of the only candidate with a knowledge base. MC Cain the questionable maverick who thinks he can pull the wool over the Evangelicals eyes, sees Amniesty on the horizon. I laugh to myself when I see how the Repubs have pulled the Evangelicals by their nose with the promise of over turning Roe v wade. Mc Cain is in favor of Stem Cell research. Something not mentioned on the campaign trail. I guess with Mc Cains suck up today to the conservatives he may have lost the homosexual vote and the Independent vote. Get your kids ready Mc Cain is going to send them to War. And what about the Constitution and Civil Rights and torture water boarding. Another Repub front runner who is supported because he is ignorant. What a laugh. I am glad that I am Independent and can vote for a candidate that is best for our Country and not a dead mans Party.

VI WI (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 5:43 PM)

VI WI (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 5:45 PM)

I hope my choice in November is between McCain and Obama. I'm tired of voting for third party candidates since '96. A choice of McCain and Hillary will possibly produce a viable third party candidacy from either Bloomberg on the left/middle or something truly ugly to look at from the extreme conservative religious right. Imagine a party of Rush ditto-heads and Michael Savage fascists. Please dems, vote Obama.

Ruben (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 5:52 PM)

Mr Change is playing it safe by refusing to debate.

Mr Change is looking more like the old politics of yesterday despite his stump speeches.

In fact stump speeches are all he has except for-
lack of experience, running out on votes in Illinois and the US Senate, cocaine usage (sure, that stopped in his youth and I know the Republicans will acknowledge that - and that he didn't sell drugs), a failed health care plan and the list goes on and on and on.

Fred C Dobbs Sierra Madre, CA (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 6:05 PM)

No, McCain had enough use of the disposable Huckabee. He dosn't need him anymore. McCain will have his men take his political corpse out back, shoot him, and throw the remains in a ditch.

Jon, Atlanta (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 6:32 PM)

Listen i don't care what Dem gets the nomination. I want the Occupation of Iraq to end. Who ever does this will get my vote. I am an EX REpub that is now Independent. I thank myself every day for my decision. to become Independent. I am not the slave of any Party. My evaluation is for My Country. The Constitution, habeious Corpus, defining torture and procescuting the guilty, Civil Rights. What candidate has assured that he believes in the Constitution? Have you asked the question about what is torture? What information do you really think the Wire tapping provided? Are you better off now then you where before this Administration took office.? Is our dollar strong.? Is our Country excelling with inovation? How many US Soldiers are coming come with brain damage, is the oil really worth it? It was supposed to be the B&B Oil Company. Thats Bush and Blair. What is the price of this oil now over 3 dollars a gallon. The minds and limbs and flesh of our men? I am glad I don't have to follow the Party and vote for Mc Cain cause I don't like the Dems. How and why does that now not sound childish to you? Think of our Country and not a Party.

VI WI (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 6:35 PM)

It's not about republican, democrat, or independant, it is about who would be best for the job so what are the issues? The issues are the same for all of them its just one's way against another, so what seperates them? Who they are as a person and need I say it, their beliefs. People lead, govern, etc by there foundation. If you haven't noticed lately Congress and Senate are the ones who write the laws and let's face it their not doing a very good job. The President sets the tone and direction for the country, the president sets the tone before a world that doesn't like the US not because of the war in IRAQ they didn't like us long before the war, they don't like the US because the US believes in the right to have a dream and the freedom to try to achieve, they don't like the US because of the "principles, beliefs, rights, and freedom" of it's people. I don't care if you have Roger Rabit in the role of President. Do you honestly think a dictator wants to give up his power, reign, money etc? Would you? So when you go to the polls don't look at the party and don't look at "it's all about me" in what they can do for you. For once in your life do the right thing because it's the right thing to do, don't vote based on party, vote based on their character because that is how they will lead. If they want to be popular they will always seek to be popular, if they want to really get something done for the country, they will put the country first, if they just want the power it will be all about them and what they will have when they leave, if they lie they will continue to do so, if they cheat they will continue to do so their character does mean something their beliefs mean something. They will only lead based on the foundation they lead from and that is the character they bring with them. If you want someone who will do what is right for the country for once vote for the person who is willing to go against the popular vote, willing to put all others first, and is willing to walk away with nothing.

A Vote Waiting to be Cast, Ky (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 6:38 PM)

Fox news is probably scheeming with the Hill - Bill Clinton gang how to tarnish Obama and attempt to distract. Being a well wisher for what is right (Obama) any debate on FoX should be avoided .
Obama is a brilliant man who has proven that all it takes is honest principles and a capable considerate track record along with the right vision , coupled with good intentions and honesty all of which has he had enough proof of . That is the exeperience America needs. The world is looking if Americans shy away from picking such a man ( without discrimination) .

Stan of Kumbanad (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 7:09 PM)

to mark in dallas...
it is no surprise that californians didnt vote for romney, it is downright suspect. The final numbers showed McCain beat Mitt by 5000 votes in the san diego area...I can tell you that san diego was overwhelmingly voting romney. There is now going to be a full on investigation into all of the funny business that went on on tuesday. Many people had their party affiliation "switched' and apparently without their knowledge. Many people were turned away, unable to vote. We have been called every name in the book for bringing this up so for all of you romney critics "save it" ...I am telling you something weird happened and if there was some sort of corruption going on...everyone should be worried.

Lynn tijuana norte (Sent Thursday, February 07, 2008 7:14 PM)

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