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I like Bolton, too; however, I imagine when all the analysis is complete the Republicans will choose someone who they believe will carry some strategic region of the country.

I think you're right, though I also would bet that it will not be someone currently running for President, though Romney or Huckabee are possibilities, especially if either withdraws before the primaries. Hunter is also a possibility, but only if they decide that he gives them a good chance at picking off California. I'm less convinced of this than some others, though Hunter might give him a bump in the other border states as well.

Of those who are not running that could get a look, it will likely either be a governor, former governor, or someone working with the RNC or other national Republican organizations. Tim Pawlenty or Frank Keating could give regional balance, but both are strongly identified with McCain, and have both endorsed him. Haley Barbour or Mark Sanford might be more palatable, but seem to have less interest in national office and are both, like Thompson, from the south. Bill Owens is still out there, but I don't know what the status of his marriage is these days, and I'm not sure if he's changed his mind on getting back into politics.

As for non-governors who have been big in national politics, Michael Steele is the Chairman of GOPAC, and JC Watts was his predecessor. Kay Bailey Hutchinson is replacing John Kyl as the Senate GOP Policy Chair. She's soft on abortion, which could be a problem, but she's strong on most other issues and did vote against the immigration bill.

Just a few names of the more likely VP candidates. I actually like Bolton a lot myself, and while he doesn't bring a lot of executive or political experience to the table, I'd love to see him debate the Democrat VP candidate. I've also plugged Tommy Franks in the past, but I'm reevaluating that right now. I personally think a retired general would be a very good pick, but most are virtual unknowns when it comes to domestic politics.

Good points.

I’m partial to Michael Steele myself..

Hunter might be a good choice for Defense..and I would have thought Newt would be terrific at State- but his global warming hysteria has me wondering what he’s up to. (If people would approach it as climate change and blame the sun instead of each other- we might get somewhere)