We may have to consider McCain. As an ex-liberal I've never understood the fear of Hillary. But Obama is a real threat. People still think that poverty is caused by racism, not the breakdown of the family, and voting for Obama will be a way to make them feel good about themselves. See also: Shelby Steele's book 'White Guilt.'
If McCain runs he will win. If McCain wins it will *probably* be the end of both Roe v. Wade and the abuse of the interstate commerce clause.
To my mind, it comes down to the quality of McCain's nominees versus another candidates lower chance of winning. Forget about the history.
That didn't help Steele in MD, Swann in PA, or the other man in Ohio. Deval Patrick did get elected though (MA is a case all its own).
Obama won't get the nomination.
For the same reason Jesse Jackson and Doug Wilder never did- bigoted Democrat voters.
He's just for show, like they were.
So you think because you might be willing to stomach him because of Obama, that those millions of other conservatives that weren't sold on the Pelosi waving will suddenly change their minds and charge to the polls when Hillary's name is substituted? You're going to be in for a rude surprise then. Doesn't matter what you will do. Millions won't follow you. They didn't in '06, they didn't in '96 when Dole was on the ticket, and they won't on '08 with that lunatic on the ticket. So if you are really worried about Obama, you'd be better occupied in making it very clear McCain isn't an option and finding someone that is acceptable. because McCain WILL lose in '08.