There are some who try to twist Herman Cain into an apologist for affirmative action (an invention which is contrary to Constitutional Conservatism). As far back as 2004, Mr. Cain put that to rest. Like you, I think he's the real deal and is now and has long been true to Conservative principles, both fiscally and socially.
Furthermore, his accomplishments in both business and in academics put him far above the smooth-talking professional politicians. I'll admit to only recently becoming aware of Herman Cain (thanks largely to FR) but what I've seen and heard so far has been impressive.
19 percent isn’t bad. Nearest challenger is Chris Christie. Romney got 11 percent with 9 percent unfavourables.
Still a long way to go. They have Cain at 46-38 against Obama, right up with Bachmann.
Romney is at 45-40.
So that’s huge for Herman. He’s only 2 points down of Obama on the ballot, right up there with Pawlenty, Bachmann and Daniels.
He’s got to be considered top tier, and just outpolled Paul against Obama.