FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Newt Gingrich is sending chills down the spines of establishment Republicans, and it's positively entertaining to watch.
These Republicans say things like it would be "a disaster" if he's the nominee, "There's a reason most people who know him best aren't supporting him" and "Newt means losing 45 states."
They say they're worried Gingrich would bring back the erratic, chaotic and crazy leadership from his time as House Speaker.
What's more, many worry that Gingrich at the top of the ticket would drag down Republican candidates for the House and Senate. In a nutshell, they don't think Gingrich could ever beat President Obama.
So far only 12 sitting Republican lawmakers have backed Gingrich, while more than 60 support Mitt Romney. Many who worry about Gingrich also say they doubt he'll be the party's nominee.
The irony here is that being the anti-establishment candidate could be the best thing Gingrich has going for him. The so-called establishment includes a few hundred of the most powerful and elite Republicans, from lobbyists to senior members of Congress to TV and newspaper pundits.
But Americans are fed up with the political establishment and if the inner circle of Republicans is nervous about Newt, it could actually help him with the average voter. Gingrich also seems to thrive when he's playing the insurgent.
Meanwhile, you can bet the GOP establishment has got a close eye on Florida. They say they're not at DEFCON 5 yet.
But they just might get there if Gingrich wins Florida and presents an even more serious challenge to Romney. I love it.
Here’s my question to you: Is it good or bad that Newt Gingrich makes establishment Republicans nervous?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Chris:
Establishment Republicans can best be characterized as a bunch of obstinate, mean spirited, grumpy old men. They want their way no matter that it may destroy the country. Newt scares them and he should. He won in South Carolina on the strength of his debate performance and on the notion that he tells the voters what he believes, not couched in rhetorical pablum.
Bill:
It is all bad and I am not sure which makes me more nervous: President Gingrich, President Romney or President Obama. None in my opinion are cause for much celebration.
Burnal on Facebook:
Gingrich is an establishment Republican - no matter how much wool he has pulled over everyone’s eyes.
Terry in Virginia:
Could Newt possibly be a bigger disaster than "W"? I hope Newt gives the GOP heartburn and many sleepless nights, just like they've done to many of us who struggle day-to-day in this horrible economy.
Joe:
I am a conservative and love it that Gingrich is scaring establishment Republicans. We need someone to stir things up and put forth bold ideas to challenge those who have been in Washington too long (most of Congress).
Jim in Denver:
Jack, I don't care, I vote Democrat. But it is funny to see him causing such havoc in the GOP.
Tom in Rochester, New York:
DEFCON 5? The missiles have left the silos. You'll be able to use the Republican establishment mushroom cloud to pop your popcorn during the next debate. It's the 666th debate, Republican Rapture and Its Benefits for "Real" Americans, isn't it?