[Alkanyadela]

TPM: http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2...nd.php?ref=fpb

If you're a Republican running for president, there are few endorsements you want more than that of tea party hero Sen. Jim DeMint (R-SC). And today, contenders for next year's nomination are in South Carolina to kiss DeMint's ring.

DeMint is hosting a candidate forum on Monday afternoon bringing Mitt Romney, Michele Bachmann, Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul and Herman Cain to the Palmetto State. The event is a big one for the 2012 candidates, as DeMint holds sway nationally over one of the most activist branches of the GOP (he's among the tea party's favorite politicians) as well as with Republicans back home (South Carolina votes early in the primary season, and loves to say it "picks Presidents.")

Texas Gov. Rick Perry, who was also scheduled to attend, skipped the event to return to Texas, which is dealing with raging wildfires.

[KevinDonae]

Newt Gingrich is still in the race? Huh.