I'd like to see Haley Barbour run. He's a reasonably solid conservative, has a strong political background, and has showed himself to be a very able governor in difficult times (e.g., his Katrina response). His term as head of the RNC was notably successful. He's seen the inside of White House operations, having worked for Reagan for a time.
A downside of a Barbour candidacy is that he's really only ever been in politics in one form or another. Politically, his lobbying activities would be a definite liability.
Still, of all the people out there, he's probably the one who's best-equipped actually to step into the presidency without having to learn too much on the job.
Once elected, Barbour would not be a bad POTUS, IMHO. Not perfect, but none of the possibilities is perfect. Of the sitting governors he would be my favorite.
It’s that “once elected” part that worries me. Name recognition deficit, a good solid guy but doesn’t generate any excitement. There’s no zip, no innovation, nothing to counteract the way he’ll be painted — as a stodgy, lifetime political animal (and, as you point out, lobbyist).
Can he raise money? Unknown — certainly not proven though.
Who knows, maybe the electorate has had enough of the “dazzle factor” with Bambi and is ready for a solid, reassuring, unexciting adult like Haley Barbour at the helm.
Or maybe not.
One thing is clear: whatever candidate is put up against Obama — however imperfect they may be — if they don’t win, it’s four more years of hell with Obama or maybe Hillary. I shudder at that thought.
FRegards