There is no other way to spin it than Bachmann kicked him out of the race. Her vigorous counter-attack in the debate is only going to enhance her status:
Former Minnesota governor Tim Pawlenty told supporters this morning that he will end his campaign for the GOP presidential nomination.
Pawlenty will make a formal announcement when he appears today on ABC's Good Morning America. He finished a disappointing and distant third in yesterday's Iowa presidential straw poll, well behind his Minnesota rival, Rep. Michele Bachmann.
Bachmann grows.
Analysis:
Bachmann Campaign: They're happy. He came at them, she broke his will. She's a tough customer and what not. They're seeing no serious challenge in Iowa at the moment. So, obviously, they want to begin shifting that schedule somewhat, looking for opportunities. I predict we will see more of her in Nevada and throughout the industrial midwest.
Perry Campaign: DECISION TIME. Contest Iowa or not? I say he has to. He's got no choice. That is where all the media is going to be, where the conversation is going to be. She's going to come roaring out of Iowa with strength, he's going to look like a wimp. He's got to go there and contest it, and he will probably get defeated.
Romney Campaign: Happy today. Most of Pawlenty's support will probably go to Romney, which is why Pawlenty was so chicken around him. Furthermore, they are going to count on Bachmann to deny Perry the opportunity to go one on one.
Palin: My fingers are still crossed babe! There's still plenty of room. Come on in...the water is fine!
Obama: The Obama Campaign wont change at all. Keep on working on Romney as the target. Which is smart even though Romney wont win the nomination.