And then McCain began to move. Or, more precisely, his figures began to move -- upward. What accounted for this development? McCain didn't fundamentally alter the case he was making for his nomination. He insisted -- rightly -- that his record was in most respects a conservative one, and that the exceptions were testimony to his straightforwardness. The only really unique aspect of that record was that he had been an unwavering supporter of the Iraq War from the very start, and had even favored a "surge" before Bush ordered one.
That was by no means a disadvantage among Republican primary voters, especially as events in Iraq took a more favorable turn, and it fitted well with McCain's overall image as a military hero (and a decorated one, at that). It seems, therefore, that on a second look a great many Republicans began to find real substance in the record and personality of John McCain. There was just more "there" there. Romney and the others were no doubt fine men, but McCain stood out as a leader and a fighter.
So gradually the winds shifted; the McCain candidacy gained momentum, and now seems virtually certain to prevail and give him the nomination. His age (he would be 72 on taking office) may bother some people, but Ronald Reagan pretty well blew that concern out of the water.
He will be a formidable adversary for the Democrats. As I have warned before, 2008 has all the earmarks of being a Democratic year. The Republicans have held most of the major offices of government for eight years, and lots of people will think it's simply the Democrats' "turn." But Hillary, instead of McCain? Obama, instead of McCain? It makes one wonder.