Some in GOP Establishment See Need for Daniels

Much of the Republican establishment is worried that the party’s presidential field, as currently constituted, doesn’t have much hope in toppling President Barack Obama next year. So many of them hope Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels will enter the race, offering just the right dose of conservatism and gravitas, Politico reports.

Veteran Republican activists and strategists worry that the healthcare issue will doom Mitt Romney, that Tim Pawlenty isn’t inspiring voters, that Jon Huntsman is too moderate to snag the nomination, and that Newt Gingrich has too much controversy in his history.

“It’s not that they’re up in arms,” said a big Republican fund raiser. “It’s just that they’re depressed.”

Veteran GOP consultant Charlie Black is one heavy hitter who’s talking up Daniels. “Now is the time, and he knows that,” Black said.