I think I'm as solidly anti-abortion as anyone, and I could be persuaded to vote for a President Rice. I don't know if her beliefs are necessarily at odds with mine or not... but then again, I'm not an evangelical Christian. My vote isn't the one I'm worried about if she gets the nod.
But I honestly believe that any pro-choice label, be it "mildly" or otherwise, automatically eliminates a huge number of consertives from the playing field in a national election. And I don't think that's a hole she can dig herself out of.
I think you would be correct in a gut check first response. I've witnessed the other threads concerning the issue.
But would that be the case IF she is a strong advocate for state rights? IF a national dialogue was begun on the issue? I think too many assume if someone isn't pro-life entirely, they cannot be on the same side in law where it'll matter. That would be up to Condi to articulate, though, if she's interested in running. If she is interested, it'll be a good test to run her through to assess her abilities as a Leader.
Infact, I encourage her to do so. Every conceivable candidate should be put on the hot seat. It'll reveal how they operate under fire. Their character, their persuasiveness, leadership skills and their consistency.
I would put forth one undeiable fact. She described herself as "mildly pro-Choice" years ago. She cannot back pedal on that position or the Dems would use it against her.