[sittnick]

Some of us are not “flocking,” I would be happier with Brownback or Hunter as president. However, Thompson is both recognizeably conservative AND electable. Moreover, he has communication skills that will help PASS the needed legislation and blunt attacks against him.

There are minuses, his 1994 vote smart questionnaire, and his ties with Lamar “the shirt” Alexander. On the other hand, he is serious about Red China. All in all, I can live with him, and unlike Giuliani, he won’t change the character of the party.

[unspun]

My take is something like yours, though I'm not so sure about Thompson's communication (or leadership) skills. Thankfully, it's still a long nominaton process.