Last night’s various post-primary speeches in New Hampshire were mesmerising, for a variety of reasons. From the ridiculous quotes (Ron Paul: “We ARE dangerous”; Jon Huntsman: “Third Place: we’re in the hunt” — you have to wonder what genius strategist thought that one up) to the way battle for hearts and eyes is shaping up, the Republican stump style is solidifying:

Mitt Romney and his family match perfectly - Getty

1. Mitt Romney

Cruising to victory, the Romney machine communicated in one picture, unity, coordination and confidence. The candidate was in a dark suit, print tie and white shirt, in contrast to his wife, Ann, in a white suit.  They were both framed by their sons in — oh, the harmony of it all! — white shirts and dark pants (two), and white shirts, their Dad’s favourite V-neck sweater and khakis (the other two). It’s not a look that someone aiming to contradict charges of smoothness and manipulation would choose (not one hair out of place), but increasingly the Romney campaign seems to be letting the candidate stay in his comfort zone, complete with teleprompter, and boy did these guys looks comfortable — and reliable — on stage.