Gingrich's Hail Mary

January 14, 2012

The Huffington Post

Julie Pace

"Newt Gingrich Addresses Past Statements On Child Labor At South Carolina Church Ahead of Primary"

Yesterday, Gingrich appeared in front of a black church. That’s never going to happen again. Although the audience is unlikely to vote in the GOP Primary, Gingrich wished to address race and class statements he has made in the past. The statements addressed were Gingrich's "assertion that poor children lack work ethic" and President Obama is a "food-stamp president." Gingrich showed no remorse and owned up to no wrongs during his appearance. Those who arrived at Johns Memorial AME Zion Church were largely unimpressed by Gingrich's bold move and many speculated that that he is likely to gain many votes for this. The Gingrich campaign has said that the South Carolina Primary is "make or break" for him, so this is a bit of a hail Mary. Blacks make up only 2% of South Carolinian voting in Saturday's Primary, but for Gingrich, every vote counts. After disappointing results in Iowa and New Hampshire, it is clear that Gingrich needs a win. But will he find it in Johns Memorial AME Zion Church? Probably not. He's unlikely to gain any one's support for this bazaar appearance. It seems like this desperate attempt at popularity will go unrewarded.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/14/newt-gingrich_n_1206670.html?ref=elections-2012