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So the $100 question is: If you had to make the choice, would you vote for Romney in the general election if he is nominated?

I would not, though I understand those who would. If I thought there was a chance that he wouldn't give us another Harry Blackmun or John Paul Stevens, I might have reconsidered.

I know you believe in good faith that Romney is the most electable of the remaining three (we'll leave Paul out for now.) I am of the opposite opinion, and believe that he would not survive an Obama onslught well, though he still might win overall, as Obama is SO on popular nationwide.

I think Santorum would win by more. I also maintain that Independents, are not, by and large, moderates. No, moderates tend to be liberal Republicans or not so liberal Democrats. Independents are all over the place ideologically, and are far more likely to vote based primarily on personality or intuition. Romney cannot play well to that segment. I do admit that Gingrich has a problem with the female electorate, but that Santorum does not in the same way. Santorum winning a large Dem leaning state with both urban and rural constituencies, and winning re-election before his later defeat shows he can play on a nationwide field, something Romney has yet to really demonstrate, as FL and NV are "funny" states.

My over-arching fear is for 2016 and beyond. This year is a battle for the soul of the Republican party. When Pat Buchanan ran against George the Elder in 1992, he knew he wasn't going to get the nomination. It was a warning shot to an out of tune president that he ought to call it a day, and let someone else take the mantle (Though not Buchanan himself). Bush chose not to heed the warning.

I can only see Romney cementing key aspects of Obamacare in a way that even Obama himself couldn't. I could also see his minions making sure that people like us are marginalized further, as we have picked a side. He wouldn't want any formal challenge in 2016.

For the good of the country, for the good of conservativism as a movement, and yes, for the ultimate good of the Republican Party, I could not vote for Romney.