Plouffe: GOP Primary Is a ‘Clown Show’

If the GOP field is a “circus,” does that make Mitt Romney the ringleader? On State of the Union, the president’s senior adviser said the Republican candidates’ reactions to Trayvon Martin’s death were “reprehensible.” After host Candy Crowley played Newt Gingrich’s and Rick Santorum’s reactions to the killing, David Plouffe tore into the field. “This Republican primary at some points has been more of a circus show and a clown show, and those two comments are really irresponsible,” Plouffe said. We’re guessing he doesn’t think it’s the greatest show on earth.

Rick Santorum: It’s Not Over Yet!

While some have called the GOP primary in Mitt Romney’s favor, Rick Santorum remains defiant. On Face the Nation, the 2012 contender clarified his comments that Americans should just keep Obama in office rather than elect a similar candidate. “We need to give [the voters] a choice and not someone who’s just a little different on the biggest issues of the day,” the former Pennsylvania senator said. Here’s looking at you, Romney.

Vice President Ryan?

Early on, Rep. Paul Ryan said he wouldn’t run for president, but that doesn’t mean he wouldn’t run for VP. On Fox News Sunday, the Wisconsin representative said he’d “consider” running for vice president if given the opportunity. “I just don’t know the answer to your question, Chris. It’s not a bridge that I’ve even come close to crossing,” he said before relenting. As for the GOP primary, Ryan said Mitt Romney is “clearly on his way” to getting the nomination.

Bachmann: I’m Not Endorsing Anyone

Talk about an easy way out. On This Week, Michele Bachmann refused to endorse a former rival, saying the decision ought to be left to a “people’s race.” “I think the quicker that the Republicans can unify behind our candidate and make Barack Obama and his failed policies the focus of this election, the better off we all will be,” the former presidential candidate said when pressed by host George Stephanopoulos. The Minnesota congresswoman added that she would be undeterred by an “Etch a Sketch” candidate, but for now her decision is not to make a decision.

The ‘Godfather’ of Obamacare

Here’s another label Mitt Romney won’t be happy about: David Plouffe defended the president’s health-care policy on Meet the Press, crediting the former Massachusetts governor for serving as the plan’s “godfather.” “By the end of this decade, we’re going to be glad that Republicans called this Obamacare … it’s going to be very positive and not what people fear,” he said. So, will Romney get any future accolades? “Maybe in 2016, when he’s a professor somewhere or whatever he’s doing,” Plouffe added.

How Did the Media Miss Trayvon Martin?

The Florida teenager was killed weeks ago, yet news reports of the murder surfaced in major outlets only last week. On Reliable Sources, the panelists dissected the aftermath that led to the delayed reporting—and ultimately the saga that has taken over the news. “The Orlando Sentinel is 30 minutes by car away from Sanford, yet they have cut their Sanford bureau … and I don’t think that in this case it’s really fair to blame them for not getting on this story,” Daily Download founder Lauren Ashburn said.

Florida Gov.: ‘Justice Will Prevail’

Will there be justice for the murdered teenager? On State of the Union, Florida Gov. Rick Scott addressed the killing that took place in his state by self-appointed neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman. Amid allegations that the killing was racially motivated, the governor said it was unclear if the teen was profiled. “You hope it’s never the case … there’ll be a thorough investigation. Justice will prevail,” Scott said. In the meantime, the governor has created a task force to investigate the Stand Your Ground gun law that permits Floridians to defend themselves with firearms.