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Mark Mardell
North America editor
Republicans 2012: Newt next in 'Anybody but Romney'
Newt Gingrich's recent rise has him higher than Mitt Romney in some polls
Well, I said watch out for Newt, didn't I?
The latest opinion polls show him surging ahead and a new Gallup poll has him ahead in "positive intensity".
So the pressure will be on him at tonight's Republican debate in Washington. His rise is no big surprise.
The party is still looking for a candidate who is not called Mitt Romney. Mr Gingrich raises hackles but no-one doubts he's up to doing a serious job.
Most people around town have the same thoughts about the field of candidates, although Democrats titter about it and Republicans despair.
They are both appalled at the general ignorance of many of the candidates, and their lack of grasp of the details, particularly about foreign affairs.
At least no-one can say that Newt lacks intellectual firepower. So expect the others to pile on him tonight. I hope to be there, tweeting from the hall if the technology plays ball.
Five challenges facing the president
Multiple car bomb attacks hit Iraq
Foot loose
Afrikaner agony
America's Latino future
Hoops and dreams
Be kind, rewind 
HARDtalk
Comment number 1.
Ivan The Cerebral22nd November 2011 - 23:50
One for Ken Livingston?
Link to this (Comment number 1)
Comment number 2.
McJakome23rd November 2011 - 1:12
Being an intellectual or a professor is not, in itself, enough. President Obama is both of those and is roundly condemned by those on the right. Mr. Gingrich will receive the same from the left. I really wish we had two independent [of ideologs and lobbyists] parties that managed to share concern for the public welfare.
Link to this (Comment number 2)
Comment number 3.
Bruce23rd November 2011 - 1:12
Doesn't his "Contract with America" already put him past his term limit? We should kick them all out!
Link to this (Comment number 3)
Comment number 4.
JClarkson23rd November 2011 - 1:14
#2 "Mr. Gingrich will receive the same from the left."
Do you know anything else about Newt's career and credentials?
Link to this (Comment number 4)
Comment number 5.
JClarkson23rd November 2011 - 1:27
"At least no-one can say that Newt lacks intellectual firepower.."
That is true. Newt has the leadership skills that BO can only dream of.
Newt is a far better choice for president, in 2012.
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Comments 5 of 321