[LostInBayport]

Who was the last president who was elected with a seat in the house as his highest previous position?

I don't know the answer to that one. I won't discount a solid, level-headed conservative just because they are in the House, though. They may have experience in the real world (i.e., running a business) that a lot of long-time politicians lack (obviously).

Besides, looking higher up on the ladder proves that electoral hierarchy in politics as a basis for experience is no indicator of quality. After all, the last election was between three Senators (Obama, McCain & Clinton), none of whom I'd trust to feed my cat.

[9YearLurker]

Senators are often nominated, but rarely elected. I actually think the people are onto something with their general preference to vote for governors. The skills and personality for a good legislator may not often translate to a good chief executive.