I have seen several articles recently which question why the GOP establishment hasn’t done more to embrace Rubio in light of the clear and present danger from Trump and Cruz. The more urgent issue for the establishment is why the insurgents in the race are outpolling the insiders by 2:1, but, leaving that aside, here are some answers to the question:
1. The Bush shock and awe campaign worked: While Jeb! did not succeed in running off his competitors with his fundraising, he established relationships that his donors clearly consider to be binding unless and until his campaign completely runs aground, which probably won’t be until the Florida primary.
2. Young men in a hurry shouldn’t be Republicans: The GOP establishment has traditionally picked old white guys who have paid their dues. Rubio doesn’t fit the bill.
3. Rubio lacks swagger: He has been more forceful in the debates than I expected, but he’s no Ronald Reagan.
The bottom line is that I expect the embrace to come eventually, but by that time, it may be too late.