Mitt Romney Kicks Off Bus Tour of Iowa Ahead of Caucuses; Now Scheduled to be in Iowa on Caucus Night – Video 12/29/11

Here is video of Gov. Mitt Romney kicking off a bus tour of Iowa to make a final push for victory in the upcoming Iowa Caucuses. Romney, who has long sought to downplay expectations in Iowa, appears to now believe he can win the Iowa Caucuses on January 3. He will campaign in Iowa from now until Tuesday, except for a quick trip back to New Hampshire, and will be in Iowa on Caucus night – a sign that he believes he will do well.

NEW YORK TIMES: With days left before voting begins in Iowa, Mitt Romney has fully embraced the state that spurned him four years ago, betting that heightened expectations for his performance at the Republican caucuses here on Tuesday will not undercut his chances of a strong start to the presidential nominating contests.

Wooed by the fractured nature of the Republican primary, the promise of political momentum and the huge news media presence in this state, Mr. Romney’s campaign signaled that it would campaign aggressively here through Tuesday, letting up only for a quick trip to New Hampshire and back late Friday and Saturday. And in the latest sign of Mr. Romney’s confidence, his schedule now calls for him to remain in Iowa for the caucus results on Tuesday night. . . . .

In appearances Thursday, Mr. Romney avoided predictions but signaled confidence.

“Sure, I want to win Iowa. Everyone wants to win Iowa,” Mr. Romney said Thursday during a stop in Mason City, Iowa, gently prodding Republicans to study the field of candidates carefully. He added: “Who do you think can beat Barack Obama? Look at the candidates, decide who you like and see who you think could become president.” . . . . Read More