I don’t think Rubio is a reliable establishment moderate, while I think Fiorina will walk lockstep with them. That said, Rubio brings Florida with him, and there’s no way that Fiorina will bring California with her. In the risk/reward analysis, you’re probably right that they’d rather risk Rubio.
However, if Hillary hangs in there, I’m sure they’re thinking Fiorina would counter the female factor. On the other hand, Boxer cleaned her clock...but that was California.
For me, and this is an honest assessment, even though Fiorina has certainly been successful, I think her record isn’t stellar, and it’s easily attacked. Casting all that aside once more, I think the GOP-E would love to have the first female president. That emotionalism could override logic.
She's sharp as a tack, quick, well spoken, outspoken, and doesn't appear to be the mealy mouthed lock step type the GOPe prefer. I think she may be more conservative than they like, but it's possible she is just pandering for the nomination. She is great in any debate or interview, a person to be reckoned with. I don't think her ascent is only due to the media, they are just picking anyone they think can foil the Donald.
Jeb, Kasich, Christie, Rubio. Those seem to be the ones the elites can count on. Rubio has all markings of a great candidate. Telegenic, speaks well, young, positive. If he hadn't screwed the pooch with the gang of eight, I think he'd be way ahead. It's for those reasons I think they are going to try to push him.