Here’s the issue. If George W. Bush is as popular as everyone says he is among Republicans in South Carolina, and those Republicans who approve of Bush still approve of the decision to invade Iraq — then Trump might have made some real trouble for himself Saturday night.

“In South Carolina, I don’t think you’re going to find an overwhelming opinion that the Iraq was a mistake,” said Rep. Jeff Duncan, a supporter of Ted Cruz, after the debate.

“Trump’s attack on George W. Bush will hurt him in South Carolina,” added Clemson University political scientist David Woodard in an email exchange at the end of the debate. “Beyond what is said is the way it’s said. Trump’s manner goes to his stereotype as a bully, and it makes the viewer dislike him.”

So once again, as he has so many times in this campaign, Trump has gambled. Maybe his frankness will allow other Republicans to loosen up and admit their doubts about the wisdom of the Iraq War. Or maybe he has touched the third rail of South Carolina GOP politics. He’ll know more in a week.