While McClintock did very well tonight, and is the most qualified, there is NO WAY he is going to become a serious presidential candidate without developing more personality and a more endearing presense. He is a smart and serious man, but he gets no points for being a likeable figure, which is what one needs to get elected nationwide.
Bush was elected because those in the middle liked him and trusted him more than Gore. Being smart and competent is not enough to become president.