“Political strategists in both parties look on Romney with a combination of frustration and sympathy — and, among Democrats, undisguised glee. Some of Romney’s woes are genuinely of his own creation, but there’s also a recognition on both sides that the former Massachusetts governor is caught in a classic downward political spiral where the perception of weakness drives one negative story after another, and political reporters compete ferociously to draw the most blood from a sinking candidate.” Emphasis added.
Alexander Burns, “Mitt Romney, man of constant sorrow,” Politico
Mitt definitely has that Dukasis/Kerry loser stench about him. Once you have it, it’s almost impossible to wash off. Mitt is metaphorically trapped in the tank, looking goofy.