2012 Decoded

Mitt Romney didn't seem entirely comfortable with the question. It was late February, and there he sat, sandwiched between Rick Santorum and Newt Gingrich on the debate stage in Arizona, where the Republican presidential candidates had just been asked to describe themselves using only one word. When it was Romney's turn, he showed a slight grimace before announcing: "Resolute."

Not exactly a biographical home run.

It's no secret that Romney has struggled throughout his twin presidential campaigns to forge a connection with voters. Part of Romney's problem is that his political arsenal lacks the weapon that can endear any candidate to the American electorate: a compelling personal story. Romney was born to wealthy, powerful parents, received a first-rate education and enjoyed instant success in the business world. He gained plenty of riches, but no rags were left behind.