Romney Rising

Latest polls in NH, taken yesterday pre-debate. Rasmussen has McCain up 2, leading 32-30, Zogby Tracking has Romney up 1, nosing McCain 32-31. RCP averages still show McCain up, skewed by an outlier poll.

If immigration and taxes are the top issues for New Hampshire Republicans, Romney's numbers should only improve after his commanding and cool under fire performance in last night's debate. There's another debate tonight on FoxNews at 7-9 central.

Related post: Romney the Innovator

UPDATE: Once again, looking at my reactions to last night, maybe I was too harsh on McCain--part of why we like him is that he is feisty, but he did go over the line and looked juvenile. I would say, though, that I think a governor's executive experience in advancing the conservative agenda is more valuable than a Senator's legislative experience. Americans usually prefer governors as presidents.

UPDATE: As far as McCain's complaints about Romney's supposedly negative ads, I don't see anything wrong with contrasting your position on the issues. That is not negative, that is what those engaged in the issue debate do every day. McCain is the one who has repeatedly indulged in name-calling and ad-hominem attacks. And I would further say, that McCain's complaints about being outspent are a little rich given his saddling us with these ridiculous campaign finance restraints, which muzzle free speech. As well, McCain is a household name and benefits from being a MSM darling, especially when he goes after fellow Republicans. Romney had to spend money to get his message out. No one else is going to do it for him.

On immigration, 44 Senators of McCain's own party described his Kennedy-McCain bill as amnesty. McCain's position continues to evolve to this day. It is only fair of Romney to clarify the provisions.

UPDATE: Brit Hume's take on the debate on FoxNews Sunday this morning--Romney wins, and a few remarks on McCain as well.

UPDATE: Voter reaction to McCain and Huckabee attacks: