I ~have~ picked a candidate based on the issues that I see are critical.
NONE of the others inspire me. Thompson...maybe...but he’s not “in” yet.
I’ll support the eventual nominee. But IMHO, the only ones with a prayer of winning the general are Rudy, Mitt and ~maybe~ Fred Thompson.
That’s just the way I see it.
I'd like to see Hunter on the ticket, to gain experience and name recognition, as well as bring his experience in having been in and in dealing with the military, as well as his conservative stance on other issues.
Strictly on the issues, so far Hunter is my pick.
That does not necessarily take into account all the variables in the calculus of elections, and I will do my best to factor out the wishful thinking on my part.
McCain does not have the appeal, partly because he has crapped thoroughly on the First Amendment in regards to political speech, at the most critical time during election cycles. For me he is a nevermind.
You cannot very well swear to uphold the Constitution when you are an architect of the infringement of such a basic right.
That same sentiment goes for anyone who has supported gun control. Again, a basic Constitutional right infringement.
That pretty much eliminates the MSM front runners for me. Mitt has only garnered some mild derision by just now signing up for a life membership in the NRA, as if he were John Kerry going to 'git himself one of them huntin' licences...' Eleventh hour converts are not fooling anyone, and it reeks of playing by the numbers.
At any rate, we apparently disagree.
It is going to be an interesting election...
Regards,
Smokin' Joe