Bachmann: you still do not want to peak too soon and Iowa is the place where it can happen. Expect the other candidates to hit you hard in this week's debate (in addition to Romney). Keep a smile on your face and do not hit back. For the straw poll on Saturday, hope to place first. With Romney's absence this will be good for you -- although controlling your media appearances in Iowa afterwards will help you from continuing to peak too soon.
Cain: you will not win the nomination. Honestly and truthfully, I do not have much advice for you, Mr. Cain.
Gingrich: you also will not win the nomination but the debate is a place for you to shine. I know how smart you are. Get a few zingers in.
Huntsman: Your continual push for the removal of troops from Afghanistan may gain some traction after the tragic events this past weekend. Use the debate to continue distinguishing yourself from Romney. This may be your moment to shine.
Pawlenty: your race is dependent upon an Iowa win. You not only need a strong performance in Thursday's debate but you also need either a win or a top placement in Saturday's straw poll. If this does not happen, you are in trouble.
Paul: you will not get the nomination but will add greatly to the debate. I, for one, am really excited to see some of your classic one-liners this Thursday. You always add excitement and energy to the conversation.
Perry: I now have a feeling that you are waiting to be the one to change the race. If you enter too late, however, you will have no chance.
Romney: I think it is really wise for you to skip the Saturday's straw poll. It is a smart move because it would damage you significantly more to lose it than it would for you to win it. At the debate, keep above the fray, expect to be attacked, and keep a smile on your face throughout.
Santorum: you are not going to win the nomination. Both you and Cain can gain some traction in the straw poll -- where the base will come to support candidates. Appeal to them in the debate.
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Obama: Last week was an awful week. Keep your head high and hope that the Republicans will dominate the conversation so much that you may be the one who again makes sense.
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Summary:
Politically, it is going to be a really interesting week. While many Americans may be on vacation, the Republican candidates are entering one of the most important weeks: in many ways, this week will really mark the start of the Republican contest. Watch this week closely.
Let me know your own thoughts below. You can also visit www.DavidHelfenbein.com or www.AdvicefortheCandidates.com.