If you needed yet more evidence of how desperate Republicans are for a savior next year you only had to watch the worshipful embrace of Gov. Christie tonight at the Reagan Library. After his speech no less than three of the five questions he took were from audience members imploring him to reconsider and enter his name for the Republican presidential nomination.

"Your country needs you!" (to run for president), said one lady, beseechingly. And with rapturous applause, the audience rose as one for yet another standing ovation.

All a bit surreal to watch.