Newt surges again. Like he did before Christmas. Is this time for real?

South Carolina's primary Saturday will produce a dramatic outcome, no matter the winner and the results. Mitt Romney could win and be the comeback kid. Rick Santorum could win and have scored victories in two of the first three presidential contests. Newt Gingrich could win and make history for winning South Carolina after losing Iowa and New Hampshire badly.

Before the votes have been counted it appears Romney's rapid march to the nomination has come to a halt — no matter who wins this race goes on. Gingrich said he had to win South Carolina. Now even if he doesn't he is heading to Florida. Gingrich is nipping at Romney's heals, and he won't stop now. At the same time, any momentum for Santorum would surely keep him going.

Meanwhile South Carolina Republicans have taken great pride in their record of picking presidents. Will they do so this year? Some Republicans who are nervous about Gingrich are nervous about Romney too, and yes — they want a brokered convention. It isn't crazy talk any longer.

If many Republicans get their wish this year, South Carolina won't have the chance to pick the next president. In any event, the Palmetto State won't end the 2012 GOP nominating contest as we all thought it would at the start of this week.

Fasten your seat belts, this looks like it will be a long ride.

WHY IS OBAMA RUNNING ADS ABOUT SOLYNDRA NOW? AskAB returns after the State of the Union on Thursday, Jan. 26. Please join my weekly video Q&A by sending your questions and comments to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Thank you.

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