In swing Ohio, Gingrich gaining the ‘not-Romneys’

Associated Press

WEST CHESTER, Ohio

For “Anybody but Romney” Republicans in a key conservative region of Ohio, Newt Gingrich has been picking up support as an alternative to the former Massachusetts governor.

The former House speaker has moved to the top in recent polling in Ohio, just as Republican presidential candidates prepare for the Jan. 3 caucuses in Iowa, followed closely by the New Hampshire and South Carolina primaries. Ohio’s presidential primary is scheduled for March 6, one of the biggest prizes for Republicans among about a dozen states voting on “Super Tuesday.”

Mitt Romney hasn’t excited some of the party’s staunchest conservatives for reasons that include his past support of abortion rights and enactment of a Massachusetts health care plan that’s often compared to President Barack Obama’s overhaul.

Some conservatives had flirted with supporting Herman Cain, drawn to his business background and unconventional campaign style. But Cain suspended his campaign this month following allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior and a longtime extramarital affair. Cain’s decision and Gingrich’s performance in nationally televised debates helped some make up their minds.

“He’s sold me,” said Dan Keith, 61, of Hamilton. Keith and his wife, Pat, said they are convinced that Gingrich has the experience and savvy to be strong against Obama. “I can’t see anybody else coming onto the scene that we would go to.”

“I think before, people liked the other candidates because they were an alternative to Romney. But I’m hearing more people who like Gingrich as Gingrich,” said Bill Langdon, co-owner of the Grand Ole Pub, a popular gathering spot for Republican partisans in West Chester.

Langdon had been interested in Cain, but doubted whether Cain could win the presidential nomination.

Gingrich is now his choice. “He’s the guy they think can go toe-to-toe with the president,” Langdon said.

Sandra Arno, of nearby Springdale, most recently was leaning toward the former speaker.

“I think they’re both very intelligent, and I think Newt will be good as the candidate,” Arno said.