[Hoot Gibson]

Gingrich said he could never be on the ticket as a VP. He's too strong in his opinions.

That's what most presidential candidates say as long as they believe that they have a real shot at the top spot on the ticket. Gingrich may actually believe what he is saying but I don't believe that he would pass up an opportunity to claim some credit for defeating Obama this fall if he fails to win the nomination. Besides being well qualified to serve as an attack dog in contrast to Romney's gentlemanly demeanor, Gingrich would give the ticket some geographical balance.

If Romney wins the nomination, I don't see Gingrich getting another opportunity to be on a national ticket and if Republicans lose in 2012, I think that the field will be strong and crowded in 2016. Also, Gingrich's age will be a factor in a race against Rubio, West, Jindal, Haley, et al.