GOP`s slow-moving race for 2012 producing a ragtag team
(WorldNews Politics)

By Jill Lawrence Mitt Romney`s low-key announcement that he`s officially exploring a presidential bid is a vivid example of the slow-moving race for the 2012 Republican presidential nomination. Four years ago at this time, the former Massachusetts governor had been an outright candidate for two months. This year, three weeks before the first Republican debate, the only declared candidate in the 2012 race is a Democrat--President Obama. Big names--Donald Trump, Sarah Palin, Newt Gingrich--are making headlines but not taking formal steps toward running. So far there are four Republicans who have formed the exploratory committees that allow candidates to raise money and are a precursor to...