US networks project big win for Romney in Nevada

WASHINGTON - On the heels of an impressive win in Florida, Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney Saturday apparently was cruising to another decisive win in Nevada, with major networks and news media projecting him winner of the state's Republican caucuses.

After all polls closed in the Western state, major US television networks including CNN, Fox and MSNBC projected the former Massachusetts governor winner in the state, gaining a commanding lead with over 40 percent of projected support.

US Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney shakes hands with supporters while giving a speech at his Nevada caucus night rally in Las Vegas, Nevada, Feb 4, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

In his victory speech to supporters, Romney used his front runner status to cement a nominee-in-waiting image, hammering President Barack Obama for leading the country in the wrong direction, touting himself as the right man to lead the country back to greatness.

"This is not the first time you've given me your vote of confidence, and this time I'm going to take it to the White House, " said Romney.

Behind Romney, former House speaker Newt Gingrich and Texas Congressman Ron Paul were battling for the second place with about 20 percent of projected support each. That race remained too close to call.

Rick Santorum, the former Pennsylvania senator, stayed a distant fourth with about 10 percent of projected support. The full tally is not expected before late into the night.

The win came four days after a crushing victory for Romney in Florida.

Nevada's big Mormon population seemed to benefit him. About one fourth of Republican caucus goers in Nevada are Mormons. Santorum said Nevada is Romney's "home court."

Nevada has one of the highest unemployment in the country, and it is also one of the hardest hit in the housing bubble bust. Romney's experience in the private economy is seen as an asset there.

There are 28 delegates at stake in Nevada caucuses. The state allocates its delegates proportionally.