Crist is a loser. The Huckster is too "evangelical" for McCain - - he's out. Forget Newt - - too much baggage. Could be Sanford. Maybe Pawlenty. Tom Ridge? Rick Santorum?? (The problem with Rick is that he lost his re-election bid.) It does have to be somebody who is bright, articulate, energetic, and
young. Not necessarily somebody with "gravitas" - - McCain doesn't need that. Doesn't have to be a household name, but not a Dan Quayle type, either. There's also geographical (electoral) considerations, but that's a slightly lesser priority. (Wow, can I ramble!)
Whoever it is, the key for McCain is too make his choice somewhat (or very!) surprising and somebody who will bring an instant smile to the faces of real conservatives.