Newt-ered

Florida is a microcosm of the country. Some high tech, some cowboy, some military, some Hispanics, some retirees, some big cities, some rural communities, some coastline, some other stuff.

For Republicans – Florida is vital. The Republican nominee has to win Florida in November to win the presidency. Ask George W. Bush – and then ask John McCain.

In Florida, Newt Gingrich and his Super PAC threw everything they had at Mitt Romney. And Mitt kicked butt.

Sadly, Newt has begun to sound like President Obama – blaming everyone else for his own past deeds. He needs to understand – Republicans and conservatives have principles and love candidates with them. But reasoned thinking GOPers do not forget ethical lapses – and Newt has more than his share.

Romney won in all parts of the state. Romney won in many demographic groups.

Marco Rubio – the conservative rising star basically endorsed Romney. Fred Thompson endorsed Newt. Fred who?

Romney can now settle in – raise some more cash and collect more votes in Nevada and Michigan. He can get ready for Super Tuesday in the beginning of March.

Newt and Rick have to scramble. Their money will begin to dry up. Their supporters will begin the bandwagon jump. Ron Paul will still be Ron Paul.

Mitt has shown that he can beat all three of his opponents at once – in a diverse state. Not in Iowa where evangelicals rule. Not in South Carolina where southern born trumps Massachusetts bred. But in Florida – where every time you turn around there’s someone different standing in front of you.

Florida is Romney country. It is the true beginning of the end for the rest of them.