Romney and the 2008 Presidential Hopefuls

with your evaluation of all the hopefuls to this point. What I have seen of Romney is impressive. He's good looking, charismatic and a good speaker. I won't be insensitive and ask the big question here. But I believe it is on everyone' mind. Can he overcome it?

The thing that is most appealing is definitely his speaking skills. After Bush, I think Republicans would love to have someone who can much better convey and explain conservative principles. He will be able to connect with the American people like no other possible nominee, on either side. I'm convinced he would demolish the left in a presidential debate too that would put him over.

I also see some more moderate Dems crossing over to vote him if he got the (R) nomination. But that is the question, can he get the nomination? I think so unless Gingrich runs, who is also an effective communicator with great ideas. Conservatives may favor him over Romney, but I think the rest of America would prefer Mitt because of his image. Newt definitely has an image problem.

The thing that is most appealing is definitely his speaking skills. After Bush, I think Republicans would love to have someone who can much better convey and explain conservative principles. He will be able to connect with the American people like no other possible nominee, on either side. I'm convinced he would demolish the left in a presidential debate too that would put him over.

I also see some more moderate Dems crossing over to vote him if he got the (R) nomination. But that is the question, can he get the nomination? I think so unless Gingrich runs, who is also an effective communicator with great ideas. Conservatives may favor him over Romney, but I think the rest of America would prefer Mitt because of his image. Newt definitely has an image problem.

Sandra brings up a very important question about Governor Romney's Mormon faith as everything is "fair" game in the bloodsport known as politics.

I think it is important to recognize that many supporters of the Democratic Party are wary of any political leader with faith-whether Protestant, Catholic, Evangelical, or --gasp--Mormon. So per usual, each political party's goal will be to seal up all of their base's votes.

The negative caricature of Mormonism is probably more widespread throughout the United States as opposed to the aforementioned denominations.

I think Romney can overcome the negative image of Mormonism by confidently reaffirming his commitment to his Christian faith, and appearing comfortable answering any of the questions people are hesitant to query about polygamy and other such "South Parkisms".

I guess we shall see how much of a challenge this is to the Governor.

Jordan,
Thanks for the post. Gingrich is appealing to many Republican-Revolution Era conservatives, but I think the "swing vote" perception of him is as an angry white man who went to war with President Clinton in the 1990's. The man has an abundance of ideas, and is an invaluable resource to the conservative movement-I just think that his time may have passed in terms of any presidential aspirations.