Romney's Sag Reignites Talk of Alternatives

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney’s inability to establish himself as a clear front-runner has once again sparked calls for other candidates to enter the race, Politico reports. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels are two names frequently mentioned.

Senior Republicans have approached Christie, even though he is a top surrogate for Romney in the campaign, sources told Politico. The effort has gained steam in recent weeks as the former Massachusetts governor has performed poorly in several primaries/caucuses. But Christie hasn’t budged from his determination not to run.

As for Daniels, “the whispers have become shouts, the knocks on [Daniels’] door have become fist pounding,” Indiana GOP Chairman Eric Holcomb, one of his closest advisers, told Politico. “Republicans are fretting the four dancing now can’t beat Obama in the fall, so their national talent search continues.”

But Holcomb didn’t suggest Daniels will run, “He respects those approaching him greatly, but no vote from the women’s caucus at home yet,” Holcomb said jokingly, referring to opposition against a run from Daniels’ wife and daughters.

A new candidate at this point is unlikely, but talk of a contested or brokered convention abounds. Many Republicans doubt the race will be settled before the August gathering in Tampa.