Ace of Spades HQ

August 29, 2012

Snap Poll: Romney's Personal Favorability Improves By Five Points Overnight
— Ace

Romney had a 43-percent favorable and 44-percent unfavorable rating in nine battleground states heading into the convention, according to an average compiled by Real Clear Politics.
A survey conducted by Wilson Perkins Allen Opinion Research in nine battle ground states Tuesday evening found RomneyÂ’s favorable rating among likely voters had jumped to 48 percent. His unfavorable rating dipped to 39.

The argument people are having is a rather nice one to have: Did Chris Christie's speech help Romney more, or did Ann Romney's speech more?

Allah notes, as the poll does, that people say Christie's speech helped more.

Here's my argument against that: People like to think of themselves as being about "substance" and Chris Christie's speech certainly played to that cherished, and often erroneous, self-conception.

Oh -- and this idea he "flopped"? Nonsense. He gave a speech about tough choices and how each generation must rise to its moment of crisis, and spoke of grandchildren reading the history books about us. The speech was sound and strong.

But I do think Ann Romney' speech was more effective in humanizing Romney. Bear in mind, the polls reflect a jump in personal favorability, not position on issues. Christie did in fact speak to that -- courage and truth-telling are aspects of personal likability, after all -- but Ann Romney' speech was all about the personal.

She did something I haven't seen any would-be first ladies do (as far as I can remember, and honestly, my memory on this is not strong). She offered a hard sell, not a soft one, and made specific promises, guarantees, that Romney would not fail the public.

Now think about buying a car. Or a TV. You're torn between two models. Now someone -- even a salesman -- steps up and says I personally guarantee you'll be happier with this model than the other one.

When people are making decisions, they want to know they made the right decision, first and foremost.

Parse my words because I intend them to be parsed: They want to know they made the right decision. Not "they want to make the right decision." They want to know they made the right decision, because it's a big decision, and they don't want to get it wrong.

They want reassurance that this is the right decision. Car, shmar. At the end of the day, what they really want is not live in doubt about their purchase and always be wondering about that other car.

Sales are not ultimately about the object being sold. They're about the feeling that attaches to the decision. Obviously, it's easier to engender a positive feeling with a good product than a shit one, but end of the day, it's about the product the customer is more comfortable with.

This is where I think Ann Romney really helped out her husband. A personal testimonial, delivered with utmost conviction, putting her own honor and word on the line -- Yes, she's a horribly biased source, but then, she gave the guarantee.

People like guarantees.

Posted by: Ace at 02:17 PM | Comments (188)
Post contains 528 words, total size 4 kb.

1 40+ years of being an honest man will pay off, especially if it is his wife doing the talking about it.

Posted by: Vashta Nerada at August 29, 2012 02:19 PM (3ETnh)

2 I love tommy boy.

Posted by: not the mama at August 29, 2012 02:23 PM (96Kco)

3 Pat Paulson for the White House ... He has to sleep someplace ...

Posted by: Adriane at August 29, 2012 02:23 PM (3RmJl)

4 It's really hard to imagine what the Dems are going to do to counter this. They don't have any ideas, all they can really do is continue to demonize Mitt Romney, and I think they're going to be doing it from the "who are you going to believe, me or your lying eyes" perspective. They had an opportunity to get away with it when the country didn't know who Mitt Romney is. And that didn't work when they tried it! It's going to work even less well now.

Posted by: BurtTC at August 29, 2012 02:23 PM (BeSEI)

5 Hey, what happened to the hurricane?

Posted by: Redd at August 29, 2012 02:23 PM (w062R)

6 I think it was Santorum's speech that helped Romney. After viewing it people said yeah the Republicans made the right choice.

Posted by: Dr Spank at August 29, 2012 02:24 PM (fLk7W)

7 bounce?!!!!!!

Posted by: phoenixgirl, team dagny & team armstrong at August 29, 2012 02:24 PM (Ho2rs)

8 It goes without say that this poll is racist.

Posted by: toby928© at August 29, 2012 02:24 PM (QupBk)

9 Is that Alan Simpson in that Tommy Boy scene?

Posted by: somebody else, not me at August 29, 2012 02:24 PM (nZvGM)

10 I don't think I've ever seen a better political speech from a non-politician than what Ann Romney delivered last night.

Posted by: mama winger in Paul Ryan's district at August 29, 2012 02:24 PM (P6QsQ)

11 The Missus speech definitely helped him. Women eat up that kind of stuff. Talking about a long marriage, kids etc... they love it

Posted by: The Jackhole at August 29, 2012 02:25 PM (nTgAI)

12 You wanna sell me something? Tell me why yours is better. Not why theirs is crap.

Posted by: CUS at August 29, 2012 02:25 PM (84pE9)

13 Steve Schmidt is on with Sharpton. I did not know who it was but thought he was a blithering idiot. Then I saw it was Schmidt. Best part, Sharpton kept calling him Steve Smith. tee hee

Posted by: thunderb at August 29, 2012 02:25 PM (Dnbau)

14 Guarantees are racist. There are two e's and 2 a's in there. Just like there are 2 g's in the n word.

I rest my case.

Posted by: Lawrence O Donnell at August 29, 2012 02:25 PM (v1uZf)

15 For some reason women like men who's wives say they are good men and husbands.

It's a chick thing I think.

Posted by: Jcw46 at August 29, 2012 02:25 PM (Vh0f5)

16 They should have her speaking all over

Posted by: The Jackhole at August 29, 2012 02:25 PM (nTgAI)

17
But Intrade has Obama up by 20%!!!!!

Posted by: In before the troll at August 29, 2012 02:26 PM (TIIx5)

18 They had an opportunity to get away with it when the country didn't know who Mitt Romney is. And that didn't work when they tried it! It's going to work even less well now.

--------

I agree. It's hard to demonize a guy when he simply doesn't appear very demonic.

Posted by: mama winger in Paul Ryan's district at August 29, 2012 02:26 PM (P6QsQ)

19 Hey, what happened to the hurricane? It's been downgraded to a TS, which is also racist. The NHC is holding Isaac down.

Posted by: toby928© at August 29, 2012 02:26 PM (QupBk)

20 Boring. Ann Romney's speech was virtually identical to the one she gave last year at the KKK Winter Pridemarch.

Posted by: Gristle Encased Head at August 29, 2012 02:26 PM (+lsX1)

21 9 Is that Alan Simpson in that Tommy Boy scene?

That's actually Brian Dennehy, he plays duel roles in Tommy Boy.

Posted by: Dr Spank at August 29, 2012 02:26 PM (fLk7W)

22 I love the Tommy boy reference. That's what I come here for. Biting political commentary and timely cultural references.

Posted by: Brenden at August 29, 2012 02:27 PM (DdD6P)

23 6 - Santorum's speech was fine. He is who he is, and he never had a realistic shot at winning the nomination. He did what he needed to do when he did it, which has helped Mitt become a better candidate, I believe. I don't understand why people still feel the need to take shots at the guy.

Posted by: BurtTC at August 29, 2012 02:27 PM (BeSEI)

24 The hardest slam they have against Mitt Romney is that he's successful.

Think about that.

Posted by: mama winger in Paul Ryan's district at August 29, 2012 02:27 PM (P6QsQ)

25
bounce?!!!!!!
Posted by: phoenixgirl, team dagny & team armstrong at August 29, 2012 06:24 PM (Ho2rs)

That' an understatement.

Posted by: Christina Hendricks at August 29, 2012 02:27 PM (7NP4t)

26 It's really hard to imagine what the Dems are going to do to counter this.

They showed their hand last night immediately after her speech. They're going to stick with the rich corporate wife who has never known hardship and can't relate to normal peoples problems line.

That Ann comes across as very likeable and genuine makes it more difficult, but nobody sticks to mindlessly beaten-to-death talking point like a Democrat.

Posted by: Hollowpoint at August 29, 2012 02:27 PM (SY2Kh)

27 Sales are not ultimately about the object being sold. They're about the feeling that attaches to the decision. Obviously, it's easier to engender a positive feeling with a good product than a shit one, but end of the day, it's about the product the customer is more comfortable with.

If only more salesmen understood this, the world of car buying would be a better place.

Posted by: soulpile is... expendable at August 29, 2012 02:28 PM (NJpM7)

I agree Ace....Favorability would definitely be in direct correlation to Ann's Speech. She is one classy lady and I thought she did fantastic and I agree when you see her passion, conviction and sincerity that indeed is the sell!! And both men and women can relate to many of the issues she spoke about. The left dismissed her for one reason...she worked!! They have to go out right away like Juan the Whiner from Fox and belittle her like she is just some rich lady that has no idea what she is talking about. That thinking drives me nuts. Anyone that has children, anyone that has fought cancer and anyone that lives with MS knows this woman faces struggles everyday of her lives. Do they money...yes...but MITT worked his butt off for it....remember he gave away his inheritance from his father to charity for crying out loud. He succeeded..which is what America is about....if you dream, work hard, bust your butt and seize life you can make something of your life and the sky is the limit. Jealousy is the mantra of the left and no matter what Ann Romney said she would have been mocked because her husband built a business and did well....that does not change her struggles in life.

Ann showed me a lady of character and conviction with warmth and humor. Mitt is very lucky to have such a wonderful lady in his corner!

Posted by: bluerose75 at August 29, 2012 02:28 PM (HDcKc)

29 15
I think you may have something there, Lawrence.

Posted by: Martin Bashir at August 29, 2012 02:28 PM (v1uZf)

30 Ann Romney's speech worked because she was the unknown quantity to many and she hit that speech outta the park. Chris Christie was the known entity or quantity-so if Mitt's numbers went up--it's because of- The "X" factor. The X Factor was-Ann Romney.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:28 PM (r2PLg)

31 It's been downgraded to a TS, which is also racist.
---
Downgrade is such a harsh term, and gives hurricanes self-esteem issues. We prefer 'promoted to a more reasonable and socially acceptable Tropical Storm'.

Make sure you update your style guides.

Posted by: CUS at August 29, 2012 02:28 PM (84pE9)

32 Go Ann. Her speech is the one that has stayed with me all day. Very smart to recognize her as a strength and make sure she got prime time coverage

Posted by: thunderb at August 29, 2012 02:28 PM (Dnbau)

33 She also bragged about how virile and masculine Mitt was. Seriously. Provider, protector, and 5-son super stud sperm. The type of man who gets things done, doesn't crumple when times are tough, and fills your babymaker with his magic son-producing man juice.

Posted by: Flatbush Joe at August 29, 2012 02:28 PM (ZPrif)

Has MSNBC explained how Christie's use of the word 'I' is racist?

Posted by: Mama AJ at August 29, 2012 02:29 PM (SUKHu)

35 19 - I think this is going to be another way Romney is different from Bush too. Bush spent his second term letting the left define him, and they succeeded (to some extent) in making him look like a bad guy. I just don't expect Romney is going to let them get away with it.

Posted by: BurtTC at August 29, 2012 02:30 PM (BeSEI)

36 Obama has a guarantee too. You're guaranteed to regret the purchase.

Posted by: @PurpAv at August 29, 2012 02:30 PM (Pbwe7)

37 NOW we know why they were so down on her from the beginning.

The rabbit knows the fox even if they've never seen one before.

Posted by: Jcw46 at August 29, 2012 02:30 PM (Vh0f5)

38 Now if the MOE for that poll is +5% than we really have--vapor.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:30 PM (r2PLg)

39 Damn, Shannon Bream is gorgeous. Just sayin'

Posted by: Ombudsman at August 29, 2012 02:30 PM (zXLtf)

40 ace,

I'm not an expert on sales but you have a key aspect of it right. People want to feel good about their decision to buy something.

We need more people marketing/pushing simple concepts:
-"It's OK to not vote for Obama."
-"Mitt is competent, experienced, and cares."
-"I guarantee you will be glad you voted for Romney."
-"We do have a plan, [nevermind the details]." (like your 3-hour video idea)

Politicians (and their organizations) should sell us on why they should get the job.

Posted by: Tonic Dog at August 29, 2012 02:30 PM (X/+QT)

41 Mitt Romney will take out your trash.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:31 PM (MMC8r)

42
Michelle Obama will respond in kind, and deliver a rip roaring, barn burning rebuttal to the "you're on your own" speech delivered by the perfectly coiffured, perfumed, and nattily attired Ann Romney. Perfect for a hootenanny!

Posted by: Okra Winfrey, The Liberal's Bullshit Windbag at August 29, 2012 02:31 PM (ndqJC)

43 Mrs. Romney nailed an introduction, Chris Christie was forceful but not his usual charming self. The speeches had very different target audiences as well.

That was one thing I was pleasantly surprised by last evening, I know "identity politics" is not what we try to be about but we fortified our approachability with several demographics we are a little weaker with than I'd like.

Artur Davis needs backed with money to go head to head with the NAACP and CBC.

Posted by: sven10077 at August 29, 2012 02:31 PM (LRFds)

44 The Chris Christie speech was very similar to Ronald Reagan's impromptu speech at the 1976 convention where he asked the crowd to imagine writing a letter for a time capsule to be opened in 100 years. Did we make the tough choices and the correct choices when confronting the challenges of the day. Christie's speech writers undoubtedly recognized the applicability of Reagan's 1976 speech to 2012.

Posted by: scofflawx at August 29, 2012 02:31 PM (N1Rjx)

45 Mitt Romney loves to hold your purse while you shop for shoes.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:31 PM (MMC8r)

You've just hit on a popular trend that has pissed me off for years: Vagueness.

Something "might" be happening, or the one that really makes my hackles rise, "may be illegal." Something either is or isn't, and the law is certainly one place where we need certainty.

Do, or do not. Be, or don't be. Don't give me this "may" or "might" bullshit. Real life isn't that way.

Posted by: BackwardsBoy at August 29, 2012 02:32 PM (d0Tfm)

47 Mitt Romney loves looking at paint swatches.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:32 PM (MMC8r)

48 I thought she was on thin ice for a while when she talked about that time Mitt paid his driver to beat up that Mexican guy.

Posted by: Gristle Encased Head at August 29, 2012 02:32 PM (+lsX1)

49 35 Has MSNBC explained how Christie's use of the word 'I' is racist? Posted by: Mama AJ

Well, T is a letter not a word, the most racist letter in the alphabet to be sure, but still a letter.

Posted by: MSNBC at August 29, 2012 02:32 PM (fLk7W)

50 Mitt Romney will rub your feet.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:32 PM (MMC8r)

51 I, I, I it's all about you isn't it, fat white man? Taking the spotlight away from the president like all you white men like to do.

Posted by: msnbc at August 29, 2012 02:33 PM (v1uZf)

52 35 Has MSNBC explained how Christie's use of the word 'I' is racist? Posted by: Mama AJ at August 29, 2012 06:29 PM (SUKHu) ______________ No but seriously they had something right after his speech about how his reference to his grandparent's generation was really a fear of recent immigrants. No joke.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:33 PM (r2PLg)

53 Mitt Romney does not think that dress makes your butt look big.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:33 PM (MMC8r)

54 Mitt Romney loves to hold your purse while you shop for shoes.
---
He's better than me. I go to the bar and drink beer while Mrs CUS shops.

Posted by: CUS at August 29, 2012 02:33 PM (84pE9)

55 We really should be campaigning among asians -- hey, you see how Mitt has 5 sons. And look at all the babies his sons have made. Strong like bull. Poor Obama, he only has weak girl sperm. He's like a woman. Asians respect the sperm.

Posted by: Flatbush Joe at August 29, 2012 02:34 PM (ZPrif)

56 mitt romeny will bring home the bacon, fry it up in a pan, and never,never,never let you forget he's a man

Posted by: thunderb at August 29, 2012 02:34 PM (Dnbau)

57 Mitt Romney will bring you ice cream and watch 'Beaches' with you.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:34 PM (MMC8r)

58 If Moochelle comes out at the DNC and swears on her fat ass or her multi million dollar vacations and her lack of pride in her country and her share of the pie that Barack will lift you up if you give him FORE MOAR Y'ALLS, i wouldnt buy it...

I guess i am racist.

Posted by: jeremiah Gosh Darn Amerikkka Wright at August 29, 2012 02:34 PM (ovpNn)

59 Mitt would love to take you to the ballet.

Posted by: toby928© at August 29, 2012 02:35 PM (QupBk)

>>It's been downgraded to a TS, which is also racist.

Well, crap, that just means it slowed down and will be overhead for longer.

GIGANTIC HORROR STORM Update: it is now partly cloudy and the wind is up to 20mph. And yet, when I tried to drop the kids off at a Red Cross shelter, they looked at me funny.

Local schools are canceled for tomorrow and some for Friday also.

Posted by: Mama AJ at August 29, 2012 02:35 PM (SUKHu)

61 Mitt Romney wants to hear all about how everyone you work with is incompetent and in some way out to get you.

Posted by: ace at August 29, 2012 02:35 PM (fxHyG)

I love the Tommy boy reference. That's what I come here for. Biting political commentary and timely cultural references.

Posted by: Brenden at August 29, 2012 06:27 PM

Wasn't Tommy Boy released about twenty years ago?

Posted by: rd at August 29, 2012 02:35 PM (9sUlj)

63 Beaches are racist.
Sand is white, isn't? ISN'T IT?!?!

Posted by: msnbc at August 29, 2012 02:35 PM (v1uZf)

64 60 Toby928th,

so would Rham Emmanuel

Posted by: sven10077 at August 29, 2012 02:35 PM (LRFds)

65 34 - Funny cuz it's true.

Posted by: BurtTC at August 29, 2012 02:35 PM (BeSEI)

66 Mitt Romney thinks your new hairdo is 'cute'.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:36 PM (MMC8r)

67 Mitt doesn't mind Thanksgiving at your mothers.

Posted by: toby928© at August 29, 2012 02:36 PM (QupBk)

68 64 MSNBC,

Well after the BP oil spill SCOAMF in the name of beach parity allowed the spill to go on for two weeks to make more black sand...

Posted by: sven10077 at August 29, 2012 02:36 PM (LRFds)

69 Mitt Romney completely notices you got your nails done and thinks the color is just adorable.

Posted by: ace at August 29, 2012 02:37 PM (fxHyG)

70 The best part of the convention so far was that skit where the Joe Biden look-a-like crashed his Segway off the edge of the stage.

Posted by: Gristle Encased Head at August 29, 2012 02:37 PM (+lsX1)

71 Mitt knows what you want for your birthday without you having to tell him.

Posted by: toby928© at August 29, 2012 02:37 PM (QupBk)

72 >I don't understand why people still feel the need to take shots at the guy. I had the same thought and Santorum was never my guy. I actually saw several pundit-types single out Santorum's speech as their favorite, mainly b/c it was the most heart-felt and least scripted (in terms of the night's theme). Obviously Romney is fine with both Santorum and his speech or it would not have been featured last night.

Posted by: Y-not at August 29, 2012 02:37 PM (5H6zj)

73 Mitt Romney put my trashcan at the curb last tuesday when I was on vacation

Posted by: The Jackhole at August 29, 2012 02:38 PM (nTgAI)

74 Mitt Romney just wants to cuddle.

Posted by: bosk at August 29, 2012 02:38 PM (n2K+4)

75 It always makes me laugh when libs say wealthy women don't struggle. Now, we aren't wealthy, but every promotion my husband has ever gotten has come at the expense of family time. I really doubt Mitt worked 40 hour weeks and was home every weekend while he was building Bain. More than likely, he traveled a lot, worked 70-80 hour weeks, and brought a lot of work home. Oh, but I forgot. He didn't build that.

Posted by: Lauren at August 29, 2012 02:38 PM (wsGWu)

76 Mitt Romney knows the difference between "ecru" and "taupe" and between "pumpkin" and "orange" and he can and will discuss these differences with you, but he respects your judgment in all things and will go with what you like because You're Always Right and also This Shit Really Matters.

Posted by: ace at August 29, 2012 02:38 PM (fxHyG)

>>No but seriously they had something right after his speech about how his reference to his grandparent's generation was really a fear of recent immigrants.

WHAT??

The MSNBC cameras have apparently trapped their souls in Bizarro world.

Posted by: Mama AJ at August 29, 2012 02:38 PM (SUKHu)

Newt was saying on Hannity that the new theme that the MFM is is pushing is Mitt's lack of personality. And sure enough, when I switched to Sirius 124 (POTUS radio, covering the convention), the hipster hosts were hammering on the Romney unlikability factor. They were interviewing one guy who was defending Romney, ..turned out to be...Mark Sanford. The hipsters went off about the "inaccurate attacks on welfare work waivers and You Didn't Build That" (which they claim is a *misquote*.)

They asked Sanford to explain Obama's work waivers, and I'm thinking: wtf, he's been holed up in Argentina with his hoochie mama, does he even know what's been going on?

And sure enough, Sanford stammered and started to say: "I've been out of the country"...but then switched back to when the work requirements were first signed into law by Clintoon in 1994.

Surreal. But I'm glad that there was a five point spike in Mitt's favorables and more folks believe he is not a robot now.

Posted by: kallisto at August 29, 2012 02:38 PM (jm/9g)

79 Mitt Romney will not turn metrosexual.

Posted by: Tonic Dog at August 29, 2012 02:38 PM (X/+QT)

80 Mitt Romney puts the toilet seat down. every. time.

Posted by: bosk at August 29, 2012 02:39 PM (n2K+4)

A knee jerk leftwing woman I know posted on her Facebook page that she doesn't want to like Ann Romney, but she does.

Posted by: Warden at August 29, 2012 02:39 PM (HzhBE)

82 Let's face it: they did nothing to sell Mitt. It was all about feel-good talking points that will be forgotten by next week. They should have explained how Romney will get us out of the depression, but they were too incompetent to accomplish that. I hope tonight is better though.

Posted by: Reality Check at August 29, 2012 02:39 PM (hvzWz)

83 Mitt Romney thinks you parallel park just fine.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:39 PM (MMC8r)

84 women want him, men want to be like him

Posted by: thunderb at August 29, 2012 02:39 PM (Dnbau)

85 Ann Romney basically said that when Mitt is working on a problem, the he would stay awake late at night and get out of bed early in the morning until that problem is solved. He won't be out blabbing about how he's working on the problem or how the congress is screwing it up. He will be right there in the middle of it, working on it together with everyone else in leadership positions (his branch and the other branches of government) -- until that problem is solved.

Poor Ann. She-ll be left alone with all those screaming grand kids. Corporate wife, my ass.

Another thing about the corporate wife comment. Whoowhaan (that's racist for Juan) must have been asleep during the part about the late nights Mitt spent with his business partners actually building the business, before it was a success. He, and people like him only see the success of these self-made business people. They never see the hard work that's put into it before the brass ring has been reached.

Posted by: Jay Bee at August 29, 2012 02:39 PM (Xwgt3)

86 Mitt's attentive to your needs, but never smothers you.

Posted by: lowandslow at August 29, 2012 02:39 PM (GZitp)

87 SNAP POLL : Why are there no minority speakers at the Republican Convention? 99% of our viewers say because of racism. 1% say there were minority speakers but we neglected to show them. We pointed out our poll exclude faux minorities and Uncle Toms and then beat him senseless.

Posted by: MSNBC at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (fLk7W)

88 No, she didn't sell Mitt as the pussy-whipped beta male. She sold him as: Mitt will work 14 hour days as a captain of industry and leader of men -- then come home for 1 hr and impregnate you on his first try. With a son.

Posted by: Flatbush Joe at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (ZPrif)

89 Mitt Romney puts the toilet seat down. every. time. It's early but I'm taking #81 as thread winner.

Posted by: toby928© at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (QupBk)

90 "gave the guarantee...specific promises." I've heard that one before.

Posted by: A disgruntled Shakespearean Jewish merchant at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (2+bRt)

91 Mitt Romney notices and compliments you on your new shoes.

Posted by: Tonic Dog at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (X/+QT)

92 Mitt watches Dancing with the stars when Ann wants him to

Posted by: The Jackhole at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (nTgAI)

93 Some might say that he's just been lucky. Lucky in the family he was born into and lucky in the family he's created. Lucky in the woman he married. Lucky in the businesses he built and worked in and lucky to have made so much money.

I think America could use a bit of his luck right now.

Posted by: Jcw46 at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (Vh0f5)

94 I'm going to have to exit this thread because you guys are hitting on some things that have me going "yeah, I do that too!" Seriously, I rather enjoy the shoe-shopping experience... provided the woman in question doesn't have hideous feet.

Posted by: BurtTC at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (BeSEI)

95 Mitt Romney loves to hold your purse while you shop for shoes.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 06:31 PM (MMC8r)

Do you know any married man who hasn't done that? Sometimes husbands just have to suck it up. (If they want it reciprocated later that evening. <<rimshot>>

Mitt does have that 'shopping sherpa' look about him. He just needs to convince America that he's a loving husband/family man and not a pussy.

Posted by: Ombudsman at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (zXLtf)

96 77
Not only does it Matter, It's. Fucking. Crucial. Shit.

Posted by: Paul Anka at August 29, 2012 02:40 PM (v1uZf)

97 83 RC,

Hey Genius the problems with Obama are not about Mitt the problems with Obama are about America.

Mitt is the answer because he is the "not Obama" it is definition by reverse feedback control.

Posted by: sven10077 at August 29, 2012 02:41 PM (LRFds)

98 Mitt Romney validates you and listens when you complain about the cob loggers posting your stories before you can and hiding the posts so you don't see them and post them yourself and then everybody snickers about a "double post".

Posted by: Mama AJ at August 29, 2012 02:41 PM (SUKHu)

99 31 Ann Romney's speech worked because she was the unknown quantity to many and she hit that speech outta the park. Chris Christie was the known entity or quantity-so if Mitt's numbers went up--it's because of- The "X" factor. The X Factor was-Ann Romney. Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 06:28 PM (r2PLg) My feelings exactly.

Posted by: 98ZJUSMC in Johnson County laughing at Cook County at August 29, 2012 02:41 PM (zp/QL)

100 Barack Obama will stop the rise of the Oceans and Heal the Planet

Mitt Romney will give your wife cancer send all your jobs overseas and dance on the heads of drowning black people.

Paul Ryan will take your granny out for a one way stroll to the cliff in her wheel chair and send his rape sperm to impregnate all the single ladies forcing them raise rape babies.

Ann Romney never worked a day in her life and is a slut that cant keep her legs closed cause she got punished with 5 babies.

Was I Objective enough for Gwen Ifullofshit??

Am I not God's Gift to Political Left wing journolisimo?

Posted by: jeremiah Gosh Darn Amerikkka Wright at August 29, 2012 02:41 PM (ovpNn)

101 Last night i fell in love with ann romney.

Mitt you lucky son of a bitch.

Posted by: jeremiah Gosh Darn Amerikkka Wright at August 29, 2012 02:42 PM (ovpNn)

102 Mitt Romney will make YOU a sammich.

Posted by: bosk at August 29, 2012 02:42 PM (n2K+4)

103 I thought Ann Romney's speech started off a little boring, but I really liked the parts where she defended her husband on charitable giving and being successful, and I liked the no-fail guarantee.

I would have been more entertained by a more aggressive speech by Christie, but I think he made the right speech for a general audience. I think it will play well with independents who lean fiscally conservative.

Overall, I'm glad they kept the tone positive. Romney doesn't really have to get the fence sitters to like him, he just doesn't have to do anything to dissuade them from voting against Obama and his horrible economic record.

Posted by: not the mama at August 29, 2012 02:42 PM (96Kco)

104 89 FJ,

Damn skippy....

He travels through time and causes cancer before his morning ablutions and rescues companies before Breakfast...

MITT

Posted by: sven10077 at August 29, 2012 02:42 PM (LRFds)

105 Mitt Romney like to cuddle, and he showers--daily.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:42 PM (r2PLg)

106 Mitt Romney believes that outfit doesn't make you look fat.

Posted by: Dr Spank at August 29, 2012 02:43 PM (fLk7W)

107

Think Ann Romney, Laura Bush

Then think Moochelle and Hillary

quite a contrast there

Posted by: The Jackhole at August 29, 2012 02:43 PM (nTgAI)

108 Mitt doesn't observe the "Swingers" 48-hour or one-week callback rule. He calls later that night, to make sure you got home safe.

Posted by: jakeman at August 29, 2012 02:43 PM (96M6e)

109 Mitt is an active listener and he speaks French! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6k_EgQ7koQ

Posted by: JackStraw at August 29, 2012 02:43 PM (TMB3S)

110 Mitt Romney knows that he doesn't have to solve every problem, sometimes you just really need him to listen.

Posted by: Gristle Encased Head at August 29, 2012 02:44 PM (+lsX1)

111 My feelings exactly. Posted by: 98ZJUSMC in Johnson County laughing at Cook County at August 29, 2012 06:41 PM (zp/QL) _______________ I'm glad someone got that because I felt kind of drunk when I typed that.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:44 PM (r2PLg)

112 Humble yet human vs. Ego the size of the planet yet weak.

Posted by: TJexcite at August 29, 2012 02:44 PM (PNDql)

113 Barack Obama is so dreamy....

I Cant fucking wait to wake up.

Posted by: jeremiah Gosh Darn Amerikkka Wright at August 29, 2012 02:45 PM (ovpNn)

114 He needs the youth vote also.

Mitt will answer your drunk dial, and talk or text it out with you.

Posted by: lowandslow at August 29, 2012 02:45 PM (GZitp)

115 Mitt will work 14 hour days as a captain of industry and leader of men -- then come home for 1 hr and impregnate you on his first try. With a son.

Posted by: Flatbush Joe at August 29, 2012 06:40 PM (ZPrif)

Compare and contrast with Obama. (O/T?) Speaking of which, remember Reggie Love's comment that Obama 'leads like he plays' and I immediate thought 'from behind?'. "Plays" from behind, hmm? Then I noticed the double-entendre there (like some morons have been know to promote).

Posted by: Tonic Dog at August 29, 2012 02:45 PM (X/+QT)

116 Mitt Romney does a courtesy flush in his own house.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:45 PM (r2PLg)

117 Ann seems like First Lady material to me.

Posted by: bosk at August 29, 2012 02:45 PM (n2K+4)

118 Mitt Romney always changes the TV to your channel.

Posted by: Hobbitopoly at August 29, 2012 02:45 PM (d6TfZ)

119 Mitt Romney doesn't mind going to the store to buy tampons.

Posted by: Soona at August 29, 2012 02:46 PM (upGBY)

120 Mitt's fine with your gay friends.

Posted by: nickless at August 29, 2012 02:46 PM (MMC8r)

121 Mitt does not move your stuff.

Posted by: toby928© at August 29, 2012 02:46 PM (QupBk)

122 Mitt Romney hates spiders as much as you do.

Posted by: Dr Spank at August 29, 2012 02:47 PM (fLk7W)

123 Mitt's already on the way to the fridge to get you a fresh beer...before you've taken your last swig of the old one.

Posted by: jakeman at August 29, 2012 02:47 PM (96M6e)

124 Obama is not happy tonight.

Posted by: jeremiah Gosh Darn Amerikkka Wright at August 29, 2012 02:47 PM (ovpNn)

125 Mitt holds your purse while you shop.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:47 PM (r2PLg)

126

Will Mitt Romney put gas in mah car?

Posted by: Peggy Jo, moving the goalposts of "being let down" at August 29, 2012 02:47 PM (l2max)

127 Mitt let's you know if he's going to be late.

Posted by: lowandslow at August 29, 2012 02:47 PM (GZitp)

128 Mitt Romney thinks that dress makes your butt look perfect.

Posted by: AmishDude at August 29, 2012 02:47 PM (T0NGe)

129 Mitt loves to have tea with his MIL.

Posted by: Soona at August 29, 2012 02:48 PM (upGBY)

130 Mitt won't ... in your mouth.

Posted by: bosk at August 29, 2012 02:48 PM (n2K+4)

131 Mitt Romney will have that baby for you.

Posted by: Dr Spank at August 29, 2012 02:49 PM (fLk7W)

132 Mitt buys you flowers for no reason at all. Just because.

Posted by: jakeman at August 29, 2012 02:49 PM (96M6e)

133 Mitt Romney never minds driving when you go out to lunch together.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 02:49 PM (l2max)

134 Beaches are racist.
Sand is white, isn't? ISN'T IT?!?!

Posted by: msnbc at August 29, 2012 06:35 PM (v1uZf)

You're racist for not acknowledging me.

Posted by: Sands of Iwo Jima at August 29, 2012 02:49 PM (nB+Xj)

135

Mitt will balance the check book, create a family budget, not embarrass you in public, mind his manners, realize that not everything is about him, and behave with dignity.

Then he will go home and take cae of his familie's business.

Posted by: thunderb at August 29, 2012 02:49 PM (Dnbau)

136 Mitt buys you chocolate once a month.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:50 PM (r2PLg)

137 126

Has Mr. Obama EVER really been happy?

Happiness comes from within. We perceive events and people and things as being the source but WE are the arbiters of what pleases us.

I think Mr. Obama has never been pleased at anything or by anything.

Posted by: Jcw46 at August 29, 2012 02:50 PM (Vh0f5)

138 Mitt Romney calls just because he was thinking about you.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 02:50 PM (l2max)

139 Now here is a ringing endorsement from a future first lady:

Didn't Michelle Obama tell everyone that when the kid's get in bed with Barry in the morning, they said he stinks?

(I am not making this up.)

Posted by: Jay Bee at August 29, 2012 02:50 PM (Xwgt3)

140 Mitt wants a mini-van because it's practical.

Posted by: bosk at August 29, 2012 02:50 PM (n2K+4)

141 If you have a headache, Mitt Romney won't roll you over in your sleep and "go to town".

Posted by: Dr Spank at August 29, 2012 02:50 PM (fLk7W)

142 Mitt lets you borrow his pickup truck AND helps you move.

Posted by: jakeman at August 29, 2012 02:50 PM (96M6e)

143 Better linky: http://tinyurl.com/9q7lzmz

Posted by: AmishDude at August 29, 2012 02:50 PM (T0NGe)

144 Oops, wrong thread.

Posted by: AmishDude at August 29, 2012 02:51 PM (T0NGe)

145 Mitt actually eats the pie that you baked him--and swallows.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:51 PM (r2PLg)

146 Mitt Romney is America's Huckleberry.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 02:51 PM (l2max)

147 New thread.

Posted by: Dr Spank at August 29, 2012 02:51 PM (fLk7W)

148 If it's a choice between a Gallery opening or golfing with the boys, you know where Mitt will be.

Posted by: lowandslow at August 29, 2012 02:51 PM (GZitp)

149 Mitt starts your car on cold mornings.

Posted by: RWC at August 29, 2012 02:51 PM (gwWRQ)

150 Exactly Ace.

By the time they're looking for the guarantee, they've usually already made the decision to buy something. At that point, they are looking for reasons to justify (rationalize) their choice.

It's a "I want this. But, here are the reasons I need this" post hoc justification for making the big purchase. Guarantee, better price, higher quality, how do you really know for sure?--clueless amateurs pretending to be experts.

It's sales technique, Ann is assuming the decision to buy Romney has already been made, she's putting the buyer already past the decision to buy. Very effective. Now, she's just giving the buyer the comforting excuses as to why the Romney purchase is the only possible purchase, "why, look at all these features, benefits brand X has over Brand Y."

It's like when you buy a car. Once you've settled on the type, model, year and options, and made that decision to buy--no other car will do, even the other ones you were looking at before. Studies of major purchases show that the buyer may start with a range of choices but, by time of purchase, they convince themselves there was only one "right" choice--the one they made. Even if there was little difference between the initial range of products.

Awesome move by Ann. It's a great way to make the sale when the buyer really has little information about the possible products.

Shorter Post: Preference cascade, bitches: We're riding it to November.

Posted by: RoyalOil at August 29, 2012 02:52 PM (imtbm)

151

"Mitt wants a mini-van because it's practical."

Mitt Romney traded in his MG for a white Chrysler LeBaron.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 02:52 PM (l2max)

152 I know I'd buy a Carl's Jr. hamburger because of Kate Upton putting her ass on the line, so to speak.

A bounty of yum. A bounce in my pants. Yeah yeah, here's a link.......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j0xnfnVA74M

Posted by: GnuBreed at August 29, 2012 02:53 PM (ccXZP)

153 Mitt Romney is America's Prince Valiant.

Posted by: Jcw46 at August 29, 2012 02:53 PM (Vh0f5)

154 Mitt Romney doesn't let the Top Headline Comments thread go beyond 450 posts.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 02:53 PM (l2max)

155 I'm glad someone got that because I felt kind of drunk when I typed that.

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 06:44 PM (r2PLg)

O/T, but interesting. I live in PA. We have the idiotic anti-consumer anachronism known as the State Store system. I was in the other day and saw a new sign. "In a group purchase, every member of the purchasing party must present ID". Huh?

I asked the clerk. She said "it's an attempt to cut down on underage purchases". I said "haven't these idiots figured out that they should send in just one, of-age person?" She said "they're teenagers". I pointed out the fact that the law is obviously unconstitutional. She said "they're teenagers"'.

Posted by: Ombudsman at August 29, 2012 02:54 PM (zXLtf)

156 Sometimes Mitt just wants to listen to you talk.

Posted by: Cicero at August 29, 2012 02:54 PM (QKKT0)

157 The guarantee was really good. "Mitt won't fail" is a strong statement and right or wrong, I believe her because a) she made it believable b) Mitt does things well c) his track record.

Posted by: mare at August 29, 2012 02:55 PM (A98Xu)

158 If Mitt had a blog he would post before 8:00 am

Posted by: tasker at August 29, 2012 02:55 PM (r2PLg)

159 I love that the Dems counter is how Ann was attacking poor little Barry with all her statements of how hard Mitt works and how well he did at turning bad situations around. It was so MEAN for her to imply like she did that Barry is a lazy scoamf and Mitt is both hard working and competent.

Posted by: PaleRider at August 29, 2012 02:55 PM (dkExz)

160 Mitt will hold your hair back when you're puking your guts out at 3 a.m. And then kiss you tenderly, before you brush your teeth.

Posted by: jakeman at August 29, 2012 02:57 PM (96M6e)

161

Go ahead, Moronettes. Take a long slow look at Paul Ryan in a compromising position.

Mitt Romney understands your needs.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 02:57 PM (l2max)

162 I guess ignorance is bliss....what the hell is Operation Polar Zealot about?

Did Fox just come out of the closet as moonbat?

Posted by: sven10077 at August 29, 2012 02:57 PM (LRFds)

163 Mitt Romney thinks The Bachelor is romantic, even if it is contrived.

Posted by: Warden at August 29, 2012 02:59 PM (HzhBE)

164 Mitt Romney is a little tired of ozzie's posts, too.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 02:59 PM (l2max)

165 "Sales are not ultimately about the object being sold. They're about the feeling that attaches to the decision. Obviously, it's easier to engender a positive feeling with a good product than a shit one, but end of the day, it's about the product the customer is more comfortable with.

"This is where I think Ann Romney really helped out her husband. A personal testimonial, delivered with utmost conviction, putting her own honor and word on the line -- Yes, she's a horribly biased source, but then, she gave the guarantee."

Which is why she's being demonized. She understands economics just as well as Paul Ryan.

Posted by: John P. Squibob at August 29, 2012 02:59 PM (O7zHW)

166 Who's dumber, Ace or a rock?

Posted by: Nota Pussy at August 29, 2012 02:59 PM (YuyOW)

167 Excerpts from Ryan's speech- http://bit.ly/NxI5Om

Posted by: Miss80sBaby at August 29, 2012 03:00 PM (YjDyJ)

168 Mitt understands that just snuggling and kissing is okay sometimes.

Posted by: Warden at August 29, 2012 03:00 PM (HzhBE)

169 If Mitt was a cable guy, he would show up at the exact time he promised.

Posted by: some guy at August 29, 2012 03:01 PM (v1uZf)

170 128 - He won't buy it for you, Peggy, but your chances of getting a job and buying it yourself will drastically improve. Besides, I don't think the farts coming out of that unicorn are going to power your vehicle....

Posted by: the Butcher at August 29, 2012 03:01 PM (8g9qq)

171 That's Mitt Romney's favorite movie, too!

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 03:01 PM (l2max)

172 Mitt thinks your cooking is way better than his mom's.

Posted by: Warden at August 29, 2012 03:01 PM (HzhBE)

173 Mitt wishes he had breasts so you wouldn't always have to get up to feed the baby in the middle of the night.

Posted by: Cicero at August 29, 2012 03:01 PM (QKKT0)

174 Mitt can only imagine how awful those cramps must really feel.

Posted by: Cicero at August 29, 2012 03:02 PM (QKKT0)

175

My chances of getting a job? Heh. Didn't you learn how to multiply by zero?

Don't want one, won't be none.

Posted by: Peggy Joseph at August 29, 2012 03:02 PM (l2max)

176 It was so good, Mitt Romney cried, too.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 03:03 PM (l2max)

177 Mitt Romney will check out the strange noise you swear you heard in the middle of the night.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 03:05 PM (l2max)

178 Mitt Romney is OK with this thread being over now.

Posted by: reason at August 29, 2012 03:05 PM (l2max)

179 It's not over until Mitt Romney SAYS it's over.

Posted by: Jcw46 at August 29, 2012 03:07 PM (Vh0f5)

180 82 A knee jerk leftwing woman I know posted on her Facebook page that she doesn't want to like Ann Romney, but she does. Remind her that the voting booth is private - she can vote for whoever she wants, and her lefty friends won't even know!

Posted by: JustMe at August 29, 2012 03:11 PM (0hDIC)

181 The media and the pollsters have done everything in their power to bolster Obama while tearing down Mitt. But here comes Mitt's wife and with one speech she undoes a good portion of their work. People know they are being fed BS. They just need someone to agree with them and make it OK to acknowledge that it is all BS. They don't want to be the odd man out. Mitt may very well win the presidency based on the speech he gives and the one his wife gave. People just have to see he is not a racist/heartless/tyrannical SOB and that by extension they are not any of those things by voting for him. That is a pretty low hurdle to clear.

If one speech can do this much because it is allowed to pierce the protective veil around the president can you imagine if conservatives got a fair shake in the media all of the time?

This is why the press makes such utter fools of themselves. They know what would happen if they let their guard down even for a second. And they know that despite all of their efforts they are still losing. They are the imperial palace guard just like Ghaddafi's Amazons and they perform exactly the same duties.

Posted by: Voluble at August 29, 2012 03:15 PM (qYvEa)

182 I think this poll will only get better, for what its worth. Basically people knew nothing about Romney and this is their chance to find out more. He really does come across well campaigning at hand shaking meetings, and that's what you see in these kind of events. As people get to know Romney as other than "that white Republican dude that ran Bain and fired people" his personal favorability will just go up. Obama by comparison? I don't know. This more than the general election is more likely to see the 'preference cascade' when people start to see others say "well that Romney guy seems okay" and are willing to say they aren't so fond of Obama any more.
I could see the spread widen rapidly, particularly if the DNC is the rape and abortion festival it sounds like they're planning.

Posted by: Christopher Taylor at August 29, 2012 03:25 PM (r4wIV)

183
Mitt Romney will cull the Perfumed Princes in the Pentagon, and replace the wusses with hard chargers.

Posted by: Dr Fish, TDY to SAT for ill mom at August 29, 2012 03:27 PM (ndqJC)

184 Really? 5%, that's nothing.

I'm like at least 25% more likable since last night because I stopped eating those fucking sugar free vanilla wafers. The gas was unfuckingholy...even the dog found another spot to sleep.

Posted by: tocquevillian at August 29, 2012 03:35 PM (iuY0Y)

185 Her speech was not geared toward men, so right there you're going to have half of people--and probably more than half the commenters here--being less inclined to like it. Moreover, it was not geared toward conservatives that much. The target was women. Most male commenters here would be quick to say they don't care what kind of husband Romney is or even how nice he is as far as helping people; that's not what they're looking for in a President.

Comparing it to Christie's in terms of making Romney more likable is no contest. Christie didn't even talk that much about Romney, as many pointed out.

That doesn't mean Christie's speech was bad or maybe it wasn't the best speech of the night. You have to look at what the aim of each was, though. Hers was the one trying to humanize Romney, and by that measurement hers was more effective.

Christie was going after people who are already on the GOP side. That's why he was the keynote and why he told people to stand up at the end. He wasn't selling something new but reinforcing already held convictions.

Posted by: Nicholas Kronos at August 29, 2012 03:39 PM (EAk6R)

186 Mooch did promise you'd have to give up some pie.

Posted by: Tattoo De Plane at August 29, 2012 03:48 PM (i0vBR)

187 Who's dumber, Ace or a rock? Posted by: Nota Pussy at August 29, 2012 06:59 PM (YuyOW) Trick question. It's you.

Posted by: toby928© at August 29, 2012 04:18 PM (QupBk)

188 Obama is a stuttering clusterf*ck of a miserable failure.

Posted by: steevy at August 29, 2012 04:34 PM (6o4Fb)

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