Why Are Some Conservatives Dumping on Mitt Romney?

You may have noticed that not only the Left was attacking Mitt Romney for his remarks in May that 47% of the population will support President Obama.  He stated that this is because they are dependent on the government.  Certain prominent conservatives attacked Romney as well for what he said. 

I was taken by surprise.  As discussed last Sunday, there are elements of Romney’s comments that are open to criticism.  And I recognize that the conservative credentials of the former Massachusetts governor are suspect.  But we’re in the midst of a hotly-contested campaign.  The top priority should be to defeat Obama, so Romney, for now, is our guy.  Conservatives should not be undercutting the Republican nominee in any way shape or form.  So how can the following conservatives justify these comments?

                   *** William Kristol, editor of the highly respected Weekly Standard magazine:  “Romney’s comments… are stupid and arrogant.  Indeed, has there been a presidential race in modern times featuring two candidates who have done so little over their lifetimes for our country?”  [Huh?]  Is he referring to a man who promoted successful companies such a Staples and is generally credited for having saved the Salt Lake City Olympics?

                   *** Peggy Noonan, Wall Street Journal columnist and frequent guest on Meet the Press:  “This is not how big leaders talk.  It’s how shallow political operatives talk.”

                   *** David Brooks, New York Times columnist and former National Review and Wall Street Journal writer:  “The 47% comment suggests  “that he doesn’t really know much about the country he inhabits… and knows nothing about ambition and motivation.”  [Of course, if Mitt Romney knows nothing about ambition and motivation, one has to wonder how he was able to join the notorious 1%.]

How does one explain these silly and overheated remarks?  Is it political immaturity and a dislike for Romney personally?  Or have they been watching too many of Obama’s negative ads? 

Do you remember such a cascade of criticism from the Left in 2008 when candidate Obama was secretly taped saying:  “You go into some small towns (where the economy is difficult)… they get bitter.  They cling to guns and religion.”?

No, you don’t.  Unlike some conservatives, the liberals rallied around their man and came to his defense.

Obviously there are some lessons to be learned from the Left.  (But, I’ll concede, not many).