I’m sure this headline drives Santorum supporters wild, and I understand why. If the roles were reversed, I would feel the same way.
But sometimes reality is what it is. Both Newt and Santorum have said they will soldier on indefinitely and I don’t doubt their intentions.
But if Romney wins by a commanding margin in Florida — and the polls say that is a strong possibility if not a likelihood — the media narrative and Republican Party pressure will be to stop fighting amongst ourselves in the name of defeating Obama. Money also will dry up for others.
The reality is that only Newt is within striking distance of Romney tomorrow in Florida, Santorum is the margin of difference, and only Newt tomorrow can derail the narrative of Romney inevitability.
If the narrative of Romney inevitability is derailed, Santorum politically gets to fight on and see if he can stage another Iowa in caucus states or elsewhere.
It’s similar to a general election where a candidate who pulls only high single digits or low teens can result in a plurality for a candidate they do not support.
Unless, of course, the Santorum supporter ultimately would be okay with Romney winning.
And that may be part of the equation. If a Santorum supporter is okay with Romney as the nominee, really doesn’t want Newt, and wants to vote his or her conscience, then a vote for Santorum makes sense.
Otherwise, it’s wasted.
Update: Well, they certainly don’t help the situation:
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