HYPE CHECK

Is the Newt Surge for Real?

New polls on Friday started a weekend buzz about Newt Gingrich’s imminent comeback in the GOP primary campaign, but Jamelle Bouie at the American Prospect says everyone should cut it out. “Newt Gingrich isn’t a serious candidate either, and if you want to know why, take the previous explanation for why Cain isn’t a real candidate, and swap the names.” Gingrich has only shoestring operations in key primary states, and a paltry $300,000 in the bank. “Gingrich is basking in the spotlight generated by a desperate conservative movement. As soon as it becomes clear that Gingrich is a terrible choice for facing Barack Obama, they’ll turn their attention elsewhere.”