“I wouldn’t jump on the Steelman bandwagon so quickly. I would think if Aiken drops out it would go the second place candidate, which would be Brunner, IIRC. If it’s strictly a party pick then, yes, it might be Steelman. I’ve heard she’s been a thorn in the party’s side so not sure she would be a sure thing either.”
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I’m nowhere near to being an expert in Missouri politics, but I contributed to Steelman’s campaign because she was basically a strong conservative and had the history to prove she definitely had the courage to not be a “go along to get along” type and was not afraid to “buck the establishment” in the manner of Palin. Sarah Palin’s coming along and endorsing Steelman was icing on the cake.
Steelman’s being unafraid of going against the Republican establishment when they sell out conservative principles would likely work against her being appointed by the Missouri GOPe to take Akin’s place should he withdraw. For the same reason, Mitch McConnell (bless his little RINO heart—he fears losing his Senate Republican leader position come 2013) would likely not favor her being named an Akin replacement.
Regardless, Steelman would likely do better in the general election against McCaskill than would Brunner from the polling I’ve seen.
I wanted Steelman to run for Senate 2 years ago & indications were leaning that way but she announced that she would not run shortly before Blunt announced he would. I’ve wondered if she agreed not to run then in exchange for favors down the road.......who knows? At any rate, I agree that a race between the two women would be good. I thought any one of the 3 could beat Claire so I must not be much of an expert on Mo. politics even after 25 years of living here! ;)