Newt Gingrich
Newt Gingrich revealed a compassionate conservative side in the Republican presidential debate last night that could well propel him to the nomination.

While the rest of the field seem frozen in clichés and well worn extreme formulas, Gingrich stepped up to the plate with a compassionate defense of immigration that could well resound with thinking Republicans.

Gingrich is not ready as Romney is to play the platitudes game.

Everyone suspects that the inner Romney is somehow far less right wing than he is appearing in these debates.

The overwhelming sense is of someone inauthentic and the Republic grassroots are correct in perceiving that.

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Gingrich on the other hand, whether the issue is social security reform or immigration, is prepared to step up to the plate with real proposals.

That’s called leadership and it’s why Gingrich has suddenly burst to the front of the pack in the Republican field.

His answers on immigration was sincere and to the point.

Despite the well-worn clichés you cannot deport 11 million undocumented from the US.

It would take a federal government operation that would use up billions if not trillions trying to achieve it.

Gingrich’s solution is to allow those with deep roots in the country to stay here and to take all other cases on a case-by-case basis.

It is nuanced policy that reflects the reality of the situation out there.

It was also brave at a time of deep anti-immigrant sentiment in the GOP for Gingrich to speak out on the issue.

The others immediately rounded on him, but unlike Perry who appears a straw man, Gingrich has real intellectual heft, which was shown on this occasion.

I’m beginning to think he might just win the GOP nomination.

Here's a clip from the debate:



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READ MORE:
More stories on US politics from IrishCentral


Irish immigrant viciously assaulted in the Bronx

Irish mayor quits over refusal to represent African residents - AUDIO
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