Suppose the GOP candidate in '08 were a conservative who communicates better than George W., has excellent  executive experience, knows how to appeal to a wide range of voters, and runs on constructive conservative ideas?  Of all the current candidates, only Governor Mitt Romney fits that bill.

With Hillary heading the Dem pack, a strong GOP candidate is essential. We live in dangerous times, and the Dems are still  hiding their heads in the sand —— so a strong GOP president in 2008 may turn out to be crucial for national security. 

Romney is a personally attractive candidate, but he's more than that. As Governor of Massachusetts he has consistently kept the initiative on major policy questions, using conservative principles. His health—care approach at the state level was shaped by Heritage Foundation ideas, which may come in good stead in running against Hillary —— who has already said that "health care is coming back." Romney can point to a more conservative alternative in Massachussetts.

Romney has stayed consistent on abortion. He clearly understands and appreciate core cultural values. He has led a Gingrich Revolution at the state level that is now influencing other states as well. And yet, he has managed to stay popular in the most liberal state in the nation.

Historically, governors are more electable than members of Congress. They also have more executive experience, a big help in trying to manage the Federal behemoth.

But to win the GOP nomination he will have to convince the base that he's for real. Romney can make the case that he his more of a principled conservative than Rudi Giuliani and John McCain. He is more electable than Newt. He is more experienced than Condi Rice.

Romney deserves a closer look. 

James Lewis   11 15 06