Primary Switch Poses Problem (for Romney)

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Primary Switch Poses Problem - WSJ 11/28/07

Massachusetts, the springboard that launched Mitt Romney into national politics, could hurt the former governor's bid for the Republican presidential nomination.

Gov. Deval Patrick, a Democrat, signed a bill to move up the state's presidential primary to Feb. 5 from March 4. The switch to Super Duper Tuesday, when 22 other states also hold their nominating contests, is aimed at giving the Bay State more clout in the nominating process.

But changing the primary to the same day as those in states like California, Illinois and New York could pose a challenge for Mr. Romney, who may have to spend more time and resources in Massachusetts to avoid an embarrassing loss since some local Republicans have let it be known they are unhappy with their former governor. Several Republican leaders, including former Gov. Paul Cellucci and state party chief Jim Rappaport, are supporting rival Rudy Giuliani's presidential bid.

--Winston Wood

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB119622359117506364.html... (subscription)