The 2012 Race for the White House is well underway. In one day the first ballots will be cast. Trying to predict the finish is nearly impossible, but why not?
1) Rick Santorum – With many potential caucus-goers having not made up their minds as of yet and with so many willing to change their vote, Rick Santorum really stands to gain. He has hit his stride at the best possible time. No one has the ability to come at him now that he is surging due to a lack of time and he could very possibly become the anti-Romney. The question is this. Will his statements saying he would bomb Iran as president help or hurt?
2) Ron Paul - If the anti-Romney does not consolidate behind Santorum, Paul is definitely able to move to the top spot. That being said, I think it will lineup behind Santorum. Polls cannot accurately determine how many Democrat cross-overs will vote in the GOP caucus. If it is higher than normal, Paul can really have a shot. If it is lower than expected, Paul will have to rely solely on the ability of his supporters to turn out more so than the supporters of the other candidates.
3) Mitt Romney – Romney voters really have the least amount of reason to turnout. He does not bring any type of excitement whether it be that positive excitement that Romney gives nor does he have the excitement to get votes against another candidate. The perceived frontrunner has the ability to take a major hit or he could remain at the top in Iowa.
4) Rick Perry - Within a point in polling with Newt, Perry will get some of the undecideds coming his way whereas Newt is still heading downward. The lack of organization will hurt.
5) Newt Gingrich - Still falling, Newt will find himself just ahead of Bachmann when the votes are counted. He is hurting his totals by saying he doesn’t think he will win. This could help put Perry ahead of him.
6) Michelle Bachmann - Unable to gain traction since winning the Ames Straw Poll, Bachmann will finish last out of the candidates who have run in Iowa.
7) Jon Huntsman - Huntsman chose not to be active in Iowa. It will show in the results.
