Assessing Winners and Losers in the CNBC GOP Presidential Debate – 11/9/11

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Tonight’s CNBC GOP Presidential Debate focused on the U.S. Economy, and once again, Newt Gingrich stood out among the field. Gingrich did a great job with every question, often taking on those asking the questions, sometimes even calling the questions, “absurd” – like solving Healthcare in 30 seconds!

The most uncomfortable moment of the debate – perhaps any debate ever – was when Rick Perry was naming three Federal agencies he would get rid of. He named Education and Commerce – and then could not think of the third one for the life of him! Even Ron Paul and Mitt Romney felt sorry for him and tried to throw him a lifeline. Romney said “EPA” and Perry said, no, he just wanted to “rebuild” EPA – and went on trying to think of the third!!!! It turned out to be Energy – which he remembered later in the Debate. The sad thing is that up until that moment, Rick Perry was having his best debate.

Herman Cain was outstanding as well, quite amazing when you consider what he has been through over the last 10 days. Cain was sharp and on message with every answer.

Mitt Romney was solid, as he always is, and he came across as knowledgeable and in command. You can see him being President, and you can imagine him going toe-to-toe with Barack Obama.

Ron Paul was strong giving his answers, and will continue to appeal to his 8%-10% band of supporters. Santorum and Bachmann just did not seem to get into the mix much tonight – certainly not enough to break out. Jon Huntsman just does not seem to connect with GOP voters. I don’t see how he ever can hope to get above 1%-2% of Republican support.

Overall, I think Newt Gingrich keeps climbing coming out of tonight, and Herman Cain will stay strong. Romney will keep his 20%-25% support, but I can’t see him moving up significantly coming out of this debate.