Why second in Iowa could be best news for Trump

Donald Trump's second place finish in the Iowa caucuses is generally considered bad news by mainstream pundits (the majority of whom have for months been attacking him, and surely crossing fingers, wishing for his ruin). 

A dispiriting outcome likely to enervate his supporters in subsequent states, they grin. But entirely the opposite may unfold.

Consider: First-place in Iowa would have put Trump in pundits' crosshairs more than ever. Already jeered by establishment media and philosophically calcified career political sorts as merely an over-the-top, boastful entertainer, he would become the target of still-greater scorn. Hopes for his fall would be even more pronounced.

His numerous opponents for the GOP nomination would likely focus intensified assaults on him, requiring him to devote precious time to substantive responses. 

Besides, it is hard for rank-and-file onlookers to pull for someone who's already in the winners circle.

But, given Trump's second-place Iowa end, he is now positioned as an underdog. And his story has become the heroic one of a people's champion striving against a larger and established foe to come from behind.

Surely, that will fire his supporters in New Hampshire and beyond with renewed determination, energies, and sense of historic purpose. That's how long-term triumphs are germinated.

Besides, think in practical terms: In the Iowa caucus, Trump garnered 7 delegates to the eight won by Cruz. 

A difference of only one. Hardly significant.