After stumbling again in his still-viable quest for the Republican presidential nomination, the New York Times reported that Mitt Romney, in a "secret" meeting with conservative leaders, asked for advice on how to connect with conservative Republican voters.
We've observed the campaign closely, and while we're neutral on who succeeeds, we do have a suggestion for Mitt -- just be yourself. The "multiverse Mitt" doesn't seem to be working this campaign year.
Clearly, the Republican race is far from over. Romney, Newt Gingrich, Rick Santorum and Ron Paul all have the support, and means to continue running. Some observers are speculating that the race may not have a clear winner until this summer's convention. That hasn't happened for generations.
Romney needs consistency far more than another "reboot" of his persona. He has the campaign cash and debating skills to swat away contenders, such as Gingrich, when they posed a threat. Santorum is the latest conservative threat to emerge.
Yet, to us, and obviously many voters, the former Massachusetts governor has not defined himself in a manner that is comfortable to enough people. Is he the liberal that was elected Massachusetts governor? Or, is he the conservative who lost to moderate John McCain in 2008?
Supporters of Romney are apt to argue that it's the voters who fail to understand the candidate's positions. But that's a cop out. It's the responsibility of the candidate to connect with voters. Romney so far has failed.
One reason is certainly the ease with which he has changed his positions and political persona.
To gain enough voters' trust, he needs to find what he stands for and stick with it.
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