I have been told that Rudy is polling very well in the Bible Belt even with his rather moderate/liberal social perspective.
Yep. I'm here in Texas, and get to talk politics to a wide range of people. Rudy may not be the first choice of a lot of Bush republicans here, but most view him favorably, and I haven't heard any coalescing around another candidate. There just isn't a single face of conservatism right now, a lot of people don't know much about Allen and a good number of those who do aren't exactly on fire about him.
And I can explain that.
Rudy doesn't back stab the president for gain.
He's strong on WOT.
he's upfront about what he believes.
He doesn't have much love for the MSM.
The "Bible Belt" appreciates honesty, leadership, and strength as well as someone that isn't a blatant opportunist. Plus, he comes across as likeable on TV for what that is worth. It's not surprising conservatives like him. I like him. But he isn't my choice because he's liberal on some important issues. That's the only reason he's not the obvious choice for '08. personally, I think Barbour from Miss is similair to Rudy in these respects..only conservative. I'd like to see him run and win, but don't know it'll happen.