SHAFAQNA – Members of Mitt Romney’s inner circle are shooting down speculation about Romney’s 2016 ambitions on the eve of a senior staff reunion in Washington. Those attending Tuesday’s private gathering are deeply skeptical that Romney ever seriously considered a third presidential campaign, despite polls that show his stock is rising. The event is billed as a “Romney-Ryan reunion” featuring Romney’s 2012 running mate, Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryan. It’s expected to draw senior Romney advisers and donors from across the country. The gathering doubles as a fundraiser for Virginia congressional candidate Barbara Comstock, who was active on both of Romney’s presidential campaigns. Romney has repeatedly denied interest in a third presidential bid, but he’s been campaigning for Republican midterm election candidates across the country in recent months.
