Daily Political Wire

George Wenschhof

Arizona and Michigan Up Next For GOP - Mitt Romney has to be grateful for the narrow three point win in the Maine caucuses and his win in the CPAC straw poll yesterday, following three straight loses earlier in the week. However, his margin of victory over Rep. Paul (Tex.) was minor and the Romney campaign allegedly bused in supporters to the CPAC conference, to ensure a victory in their straw poll.

Michigan and Arizona will hold their primaries on January 31 and ten days will pass before the next debate. Meanwhile, the candidates will focus on raising cash. You can read more here.

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Polling Shows Santorum Surge - Public Policy Polling has Rick Santorum with a 15 point lead over Mitt Romney nationwide - 38% - 23%. Newt Gingrich had 17% and Rep. Paul 13%. Public Policy Polling has more here.

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U.S. Catholic Bishops Say No To Obama Contraceptive Insurance Compromise - ensuring the controversy will live on. “The only complete solution to this religious liberty problem is for [the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services] to rescind the mandate of these objectionable services,” the conference said in a statement released late Friday. The Washington Post has more here.

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Obama To Release Budget Tomorrow - it is expected to contain a deficit of 1.33 Trillion and is sure to inflame GOP opposition. With, continuing resolutions being the norm today, Americans are growing tired of the constant Congressional budget battles. Politico.com has their 10 takeaways on the Obama budget here.

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Maryland Gay Marriage Bill Divides Lawmakers - the latest round of testimony highlighted the emotional divide that exists on the issue. Passage of the measure sponsored by Maryland Democratic Governor Martin O'Malley is dependent on the House, where passage is still several votes short. The Baltimore Sun has more here.

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Arab Ministers Meeting on Syria - as violence continues, the Arab League attempts to find a solution. It appears the days of rule by President Assad are numbered. Reuters.com has more here.

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Russian Election Nears - will Vladimir Putin regain the presidency is the big question. The March 4 election is coming rapidly and the mudslinging is in full force in Russia. Bloomberg.com has more here.

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