That's fine. I'm not trying to pigeonhole you. I believe it's a legitimate question, yet understand your reluctance to respond..
My own position has evolved since this past presidential election. I was not going to vote for the presidency until Sarah Palin was selected by McCain. That one decision brought me on board. I still punched the box while holding my breath, and with much distaste for the head of the ticket. Obviously, it got me (us) nowhere.
This taught me that making concessions when we follow a ticket is usually little better than not voting at all. As you say, much depends on the candidate, but as a whole, those who qualify as RINOs are generally little different than their Democrat opposites. This is especially true for incumbents. Because of this, I will not be voting for Republicans simply because of their party affiliation. I've drawn my line in the sand. I'm at a stage in life where quality means more than quantity. And I'm through with compromise. If I don't stand for something now, it could be too late tomorrow.
Vote your conscience, I'll vote (or not vote) mine. And mine will be without remorse the day after.
We're clearly talking past each other because in my mind I responded as honestly and directly as I could. I meant every word. Perhaps my perspective is not one you are familiar with.
I will not vote for a Republican simply because they are a Republican. I am not a Republican, I am a Conservative. I would have voted for Doug Hoffman, for example. It is easy for me to speak of specific races.
I honestly don't respond to hypotheticals - just as many, many people don't - because it is usually not useful to do so in my experience. THAT'S my answer!
Anyway, I'm glad that we can both sleep at night, each with a clear conscience, FRiend.