I’m not always a fan of symbolism, but I think the Ryan pick has a symbolic meaning that may also be real. Romney is naturally liberal but not stupid. My guess is that he noticed the ongoing lack of enthusiasm in the base he needs for the win. I think the Ryan pick means, “I will govern as Candidate Romney the ‘severe’ conservative, not as Governor Romney the Massachusetts liberal, and Ryan will help me to know how to do that.” I’m not convinced of his sincerity, but now I’m willing to listen objectively.
Your post illustrates exactly why Romney picked Ryan.