Extraordinary Gingrich comeback also vindication

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — To say Newt Gingrich capped an extraordinary comeback with a South Carolina victory doesn’t quite capture what happened.

It was more like vindication.

The former House speaker came from behind to overtake Mitt Romney on Saturday in a state that for decades has chosen the eventual Republican nominee. On the way there, Gingrich triumphed over months of campaign turmoil and at least two political near-death experiences. He also faced down millions of dollars of attack advertisements and potentially damning personal allegations.

He did it by finding his voice and rallying conservatives with a populist defiance.

The coming weeks will determine whether Gingrich can stay on top this time.