The problem we're facing for 2008, is that while we conservatives define the field and the terms for the primary, the MSM will define the terms and the field for the general election.
By our standards, Guiliani IS Liberal, but not by the generic standards imposed by the culture and the media.
Rule one of war, political or otherwise: know the terrain you're fighting on. . .
"Rule one of war, political or otherwise: know the terrain you're fighting on."
Good point in your quote above.
To win, we've got to solidify the base (i.e. Conservatives, Republicans and Libertarians) and then gain enough moderate voters to push us over the top---my opinion, that is.
Given that, we want the most conservative guy to win the primaries, but one that can also win over the center in the general election w/o alienating too many folks. This candidate has to be able to appeal to women, minorities, etc. to draw them away from the Dems (i.e. the expected Shrillary-Obama ticket). Tough to do in '08 w/Shrillary appealing to the leftists and angry/single white women and Obama to blacks. However, of all prospective candidates, Romney could do it best.
Why? Well, he's conservative enough to get most of the base to vote for him. And, he's telegenic enough, seemingly warm & positive enough to draw people to him. Don't know him and haven't met him, but that's just my opinion. Americans like warm & friendly people----partly why Reagan smashed Carter & Fritz Mondale---he had that "it" factor in spades over them.
Not that this should trump his beliefs, but it IS a factor that can't be denied. And, he's spotless in terms of corruption, marriage, etc.
I love Newt and think he's probably the best "thinker" in the conservative movement, but he won't win a general election.
Given my druthers, here's what I'd ask for:
Pres: Romney
VP: Santorum, Jeb Bush, Sanford, Mike Pence, etc...
AG: Rudy Giuliani
SECDEF: McCain (he's spot-on in the GWOT and Iraq)
White House Policy Advisor or RNC Chair (or both!): Newt Gingrich
Just my .02 for today!