All indications point to a Ridge run. He already has the party bosses and GOP beltway elites whispering in his ear. He'll have the full backing of the RNC/NRSC and they'll tag-team with the Dems to defeat Toomey.
Also, how is Toomey perceived in PA? Can he win a general?
Toomey is very popular and conservative, but without party backing, it'll be an uphill fight. He'll have the grassroots, but he likely won't be able to overcome Dem crossover voters who'll vote for Ridge & the media drumbeat that he's too conservative to win.
GOTV will be critical in both the primary and the general and, sadly, unless their is some overwhelming factor or popular support, Toomey is toast without the RNC/NRSC/PA GOP.
Yes, but the Democrats may have to vote in their own primaries to keep Specter from winning it.