Turmoil in the Republican Field: Huckabee and Trump Drop Out, Leaving Questions About 2012 Nomination

A week of turmoil has hit the Republican field, with prominent contenders Mike Huckabee and Donald Trump deciding against a presidential run, leaving significant questions about who will challenge President Barack Obama in the 2012 election. The absence of Huckabee, who was at or near the top of public opinion polls, has created a void in the field, with some Republicans turning their attention to Mitt Romney. However, Romney faces criticism from conservatives for his healthcare reform plan in Massachusetts, which became the model for President Obama's national healthcare plan.

Key Takeaways:

• Mike Huckabee's decision not to seek the nomination has left a significant gap in the field, with many Republicans looking for an alternative.
• Despite not formally declaring, Mitt Romney is raising large sums of money and is at the top of most public-opinion polls of likely Republican contenders.
• Romney faces criticism from conservatives for his healthcare reform plan in Massachusetts, which has become a major issue in his bid for the nomination.
• Newt Gingrich has entered the race but faces questions about his personal history, including two divorces and a history of adultery.
• Texas Congressman Ron Paul, former Minnesota governor Tim Pawlenty, and former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum have also taken steps toward a White House bid.
• Recent surveys suggest that Republican voters are dissatisfied with the developing field of presidential candidates and would like to see other choices.

Statistics:

• Mike Huckabee was at or near the top of most public opinion polls before deciding not to seek the nomination.
• Mitt Romney has raised over $1 million in the first quarter of 2012, ahead of other potential contenders.
• 62% of Republican voters say they are dissatisfied with the current field of presidential candidates, according to a recent Quinnipiac University Poll.

Sources:

• Voice of America
• Fox News interview with Mike Huckabee
• NBC's Meet the Press interview with Newt Gingrich
• Quinnipiac University Polling Institute