When I launched the GOP Presidential Puzzle in June, it appeared that the Republican Party primary race was on the brink of some long-needed clarity.
Rick Perry was preparing to join the field, and nearly all of the pundits – including yours truly – assumed that the Texas governor would be an enduring front-runner.
Since then, this puzzling contest has become only more confounding.
Perry flopped in several debates. Michele Bachmann experienced a quick rise and fall. So did Herman Cain. GOP voters now seem bewitched by Newt Gingrich, leaving some to wonder if Newt has seduced them with some kind of devilish love potion. As the three witches said in Shakespeare's "Macbeth":
Eye of newt, and toe of frog,
Wool of bat, and tongue of dog,
Adder's fork, and blind-worm's sting,
Lizard's leg, and howlet's wing,
For a charm of powerful trouble,
Like a hell-broth boil and bubble.
Given the uncertain state of the race, I decided another crossword puzzle was needed. This one might be easier than the last, yet still has some questions that could challenge even the most serious political wonks.
The same rules apply as last time. The first reader who sends me a completed and correct crossword puzzle receives a signed Rex Babin cartoon of his or her choice. Fax me your completed puzzle at (916) 321-1996 or email me a completed PDF version at topics@sacbee.com.
[Here is a form-field PDF that will allow you to type in the answers right on your computer. Remember to re-save it before emailing. You can also print it out if you'd rather fax your answers in.]
Similar to last time, the highlighted squares spell out my prediction of what will happen in the presidential race – for whatever that's worth. Last time, I predicted Obama would face Perry.
Where is Rex?
Our beloved cartoonist remains on health leave. But he is having fun (at the expense of Gov. Jerry Brown and others) with his "ApoCALypse Now" series, including today's installment. Look for Rex's annual "Best of Babin" on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, a holiday tradition that continues to endure.
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