[Wuli]

I think the eventual GOP candidate is not among anyone that has indicated they might run, nor is it among anyone the media, us or most in the GOP now think of as possible candidates. I think 2008 will bring out someone who will be thinking outside the box. I think they will be supporting a set of strong American values, but they will have some bold policy approaches to advancing those values. But, I think events in 2006 and 2007 will demonstrate where, in which policy areas, the emphasis is needed most. I think they sit somewhere in the GOP now and see the events, and the needed emphasis, turning in some direction, as their thoughts develope policy responses to those coming events. While others are swatting at the flies of the minutia of todays events, they are looking ahead. If things unfold as they think they will, they will stand up and be noticed in 2006 and 2007.

[The Great Yazoo]

I think the eventual GOP candidate is not among anyone that has indicated they might run...

Carter was a lousy president, but he ran an almost perfect campaign and had a great deal of stupid luck.

From green bumper stickers to flooding Iowa with Carter supporters in the persons of fellow farmers in advance of the "Hawkeye Cauci," Carter's campaign clearly thought outside the box.

My point in bringing up Carter is to point out that he started running the day after the 1972 election. That's what dark horses have to do.

If you need further proof, look at how Clinton emulated Carter before 1992.

[Santiago de la Vega]

Wuli has an excellent point here.

Whenever leadership skips a level, as in the USSR when it got Gorby, good things happen. Fresh thinking illuminates the issues.

Cheney will turn out to be a pivotal figure in the future of the Freedom Trail, doing what's necessary to win elections, manage public affairs, and step aside when necessary.

Cinncinnatus and Washingtom come to mind.

Great men and selfless.

May the good Lord watch over him and give him peace.