My top choice is the same as in 2005: Francis Cardinal Arinze of Nigeria. http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Francis_Arinze He already turned 80, so he can’t vote, but that doesn’t mean that he can’t be elected.
Shouldn't they go with a younger man who can jet around easier? That's why Pope Benedict is resigning (abdicating?) right? I think his stepping down is commendable.
I'd never heard of Turkson before. My mom said he was a "progressive". Googling that she's not alone in thinking so. But he also pissed off Muslims some how which is good (AFAIC).
Her opinion of Dolan has also soured for some reason (I forget what she said). She used to love him, before he got the NY job she was hoping he would be the next Archbishop of Chicago. Her favorite American is the Archbishop of Los Angeles who isn't even a Cardinal yet so likely will not be considered.
She thinks most the South America Cardinals are progressive, she mentioned a Spanish Cardinal she liked that no one was mentioning, the name escapes me.
I told her I thought the Italians would be desperate to get the office back, she didn't think that was gonna happen (like ever). I wouldn't be so sure. While I would bet on a non-Italian no single country has a better chance. Kinda like how every Senator looks in the mirror and sees a future President I bet every Italian Cardinal looks in the mirror and sees a future Pope. ;)