Red herring. Starting with GWB and working backwards, list the "military or foriegn policy experience" of the last 10 presidents. That'll get you reoriented in the right direction.
Second, let's take your concern about the nebulous term "national security." Change that to "city, state, regional, corporate, organizational", to wit, "practical security", and then peruse the web site http://www.giulianipartners.com/default.aspx.
Note that the $100 million annual revenues Giuliani Partners is a security consulting firm. Security is what they do.
I can't believe you think there's a single "candidate" out there with more experience with and knowledge of practical security matters. It's preposterous, and if you can't "see any", then you are being willfully blind.
Giuliani Partners LLC is dedicated to helping leaders solve critical strategic issues, accelerate growth, and enhance the reputation and brand of their organizations in the context of strongly held values. Giuliani Partners' professional guidance to leaders is based on six fundamental principles: Integration, Optimism, Courage, Preparedness, Communication, Accountability
The closest thing to "security" in that list is "preparedness", under which they say:
Being prepared requires constant vigilance and foresight. Preparedness applies not only to the effective execution of operations, but also to the assurance that operations continue smoothly through any type of event. Organizations face an ever-changing series of threats to their future. That is why it is essential to identify existing threats quickly and review the processes and procedures in place to combat those threats. Careful preparation for every event that can be anticipated enhances preparation for the unanticipated. The public and private sectors face a multitude of risks and challenges stemming from terrorism, crime, natural disasters, market performance, and countless other factors that threaten an organization’s ability to survive. Governments are already taking steps to protect civilians and businesses from the effects of a variety of threats. The private sector can do more to prepare to secure its personnel, assets, and future. Relentless preparation develops a culture of responsibility and awareness.
It's not his firm that gives him the issue of being tough on the "war on terror". He looked good right after 9/11, he said the right things, and he's been a strong supporter of Bush.
I disagree on that. Duncan Hunter has a lot meor experience. Heck even GW was in the military. Unlike draft dodging Rino Rudy.