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Q: Maryland has historically not been a factor in deciding GOP candidates. What sort of impact will the state have on this election?
Carl: Maryland got cheated out of a competitive GOP primary, again. For most Republicans here it was over and Romney won it long ago. As a consequence Rick Santorum and Newt Gingrich chose to all but ignore the state and most Maryland Republicans had no chance to see or hear from a candidate up close.
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Q: Mitt Romney just picked up Paul Ryan as an endorsement. What other endorsements would he need to secure before he is officially considered the GOP candidate?
Carl: When he gets the 1144 delegates needed for the nomination he won't need endorsements. Former President George W Bush has said he will not endorse a candidate. House speaker John Boehner and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell could certainly help with message cohesion. In terms of buzz and coalescing the GOP base -- Sarah Palin and Rush Limbaugh.
Q: In his official endorsement of Mitt Romney, President Bush quoted the Kenny Rogers song “The Gambler” and said I think it's time for people to all get behind this good man. And, some of ‘em waged a very good fight—I say that about some of his opponents.” What is the main impetus behind the Newt Gingrich campaign, and what is his political end game at this point?
Carl: Newt is deeply in debt, traveling less, and letting staff go but he'll continue until the convention to keep big ideas on the agenda. Suspending his candidacy ends all coverage, but by staying in, the colorful former Speaker can still command attention.
Q: How has the Tea Party affected this election? How has the GOP changed with their presence? What are your predictions for 2016?
Carl: Both parties have changed dramatically. Democrats have lost some moderate swing voters. Republicans won some moderate swing voters back in 2010 with the help of the Tea Party, which pushed the GOP right, but now seems largely content with Romney according to exit polls.
Q: Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley currently serves as Chair of the Democratic Governors Association, a position once occupied by President Bill Clinton. What is your prediction on the governor's future as a potential presidential candidate?
Carl: If Governor O'Malley wants to be considered in 2016 he - like all the rest - should get to Iowa or New Hampshire within a few weeks of election day. Governors typically make better Presidential candidates than members of Congress, so chairing the DGA projects his influence all the more.
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Stay tuned for more election day coverage from whatsupmag.com.
