Now that Mitt Romney has won Wisconsin, Maryland and D.C., the momentum will most likely propel him to win the GOP nomination. Who will be his running mate? I can tell you who it won't be; Rick Santorum. Up until a couple of weeks ago, he was still under consideration but not now. He took himself out of the running when he made that unfortunate remark about Romney being the 'worst republican' in America anyone could vote for. I've heard his explanations and I understand and accept them but the damage is insurmountable. Romney could never put him on the ticket because that ONE soundbite would be replayed over and over and thrown up in his face at every turn. There is absolutely no way he can walk that one back and be able to stand by Romney's side as his running mate.
My own feeling is that Santorum is at a crossroads. He's a young man and if he bows out now, gracefully(as Romney did four years ago when he ran against McCain), and puts the Republican party and the desire to defeat Obama in November first, he stands a good chance of being the Party's pick in four or eight years. But...if he continues this campaign by double teaming Romney with Gingrich's help (which will end badly to be sure) both will lose their power within the party as well as any reputation they enjoy at this time.
And if Santorum chooses to stay in the race till the Pennsylvania primary, He MUST win it, because if he loses, I predict he loses his political career as well. Santorum has managed to make voters forget that he had that huge, devastating and historic loss in Pennsylvania and if he loses again, this time, it will damage him beyond repair.
It's up to him; does he let his ego and pride be his downfall or does he humble himself and accept the 'will of the people'? We'll see.
