Romney projected to win Nevada GOP caucuses

CNN projects Mitt Romney as the winner of Saturday’s Republican caucuses in Nevada, based on entrance polls and early returns.

Romney was cruising with 55 percent of the vote in early returns, but a dogfight was on for second place.

Romney issued a statement Saturday afternoon.

“Today, the people of Nevada voted for change in Washington. For far too long, our leaders have promised to take the action necessary to build a stronger America, and still the people of Nevada and all across this country are waiting.

“Whether it is reforming health care, making America energy independent or securing the border, the American people have been promised much and are now ready for change,” the statement said.

At the same early stage, Sen. John McCain and Rep. Ron Paul were in a close race for second place, ahead of former Sen. Fred Thompson.

Also on Saturday, Republicans were voting in a primary election in South Carolina, where results were expected to come in later.

The two contests could propel two candidates to front-runner status and winnow the field in this year’s wide-open presidential races.

-from CNN.com