I’m increasingly confident that Romney won’t be nominated. He’ll probably serve on McCain’s cabinet should McCain become President, perhaps Secretary of the Treasury. And don’t worry, it’s increasingly clear that the Tom Ridge speculation was a publicity stunt.
Don Carcieri has a lot of good qualities- conservative, Catholic, ethnic (not sure what ethnicity, I think he’s part Italian), record of winning cross-over votes. I wish McCain had considered him more seriously. You’ve spoken of him highly, as well. There’s still time and hope, IMHO.
I am currently fixated on a much-overlooked part of the electorate. They are moderate independents who voted for Gore and Kerry reluctantly, but cringe at Obama. I’m surprised no one has spoken of this group. Many, though far from all, are Jewish. And I think this group could be swung into the Republican column without McCain or the party moving to the left. McCain’s independent image attracts them, but they’re not sold on him yet, as many of them don’t usually vote Republican. But in addition to being conservative, the running mate should be urban and northern. At least that’s my take. Nothing against Mark Sanford, he’s a great governor, but I believe this small voting bloc will decide the election.
Always a pleasure,
Mike