Source: Huckabee Tops McCain's Veep List
Mike Huckabee, the former governor of Arkansas and defeated contender for the GOP presidential nomination, is currently at the top of John McCain's short list for a running mate. At least that's the word from a top McCain fundraiser and longtime Republican moneyman who has spoken to McCain's inner circle. The fundraiser is less than thrilled with the idea of Huckabee as the vice presidential nominee, and many economic conservatives—turned off by the populist tone of Huckabee's campaign and his tax record as governor—are likely to share that marked lack of enthusiasm. But here is the logic of picking Huckabee:
1) He is a great campaigner and communicator who could both shore up support in the South among social conservatives (Huckabee is a former Baptist minister) and appeal to working-class voters in the critical "Big 10" states of Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Ohio.
2) As any pollster knows, voters search for candidates who "care about people like me," and Huckabee would probably score a lot higher on that quality than millionaire investor Mitt Romney. Plus, given all the turmoil on Wall Street, 2008 would seem to be a bad year to pick a former investment banker for veep.
3) Economic conservatives and supply-siders may balk, but the threat of four years of Obamanomics and higher investment, income, and corporate taxes might be enough to keep them on board.
Let me add that a top Republican political strategist told me about a month ago that he also believed Huckabee to be the leading veep contender.
Tags: presidential election 2008 | running mates | Vice President | Mitt Romney | Mike Huckabee | John McCain
Tools: 
Share
|
| Comments (597)
Reader Comments
No Huck!
Yep, he'll lose my vote as well. I'm an independent who has usually voted Democrat in recent presidential elections but have always admired McCain and was excited about voting for him for president. But if Huck ends up on the ticket I will not be pulling the lever for him. I won't have Huck one heartbeat away from the presidency. Please, Senator McCain, don't do it!
No Huck!
Yep, he'll lose my vote as well. I'm an independent who has usually voted Democrat in recent presidential elections but have always admired McCain and was excited about voting for him for president. But if Huck ends up on the ticket I will not be pulling the lever for him. I won't have Huck one heartbeat away from the presidency. Please, Senator McCain, don't do it!
huck
I have voted democratric for the past 4 presidental elections. I was planing on going Republican this year. No way if Huckabee is the VP nominee.
Is this a joke?
Please, please, please look at Huckabee's record in the backwoods. McCain really needs to understand that he won't win if conservatives stay home in droves. If it's to be Huckabee, let the world have Obama. At least that will be over in 4 short years and the democratic party will be useless from then on.
Good man but not 21st century
Mike Huckaby is a good man but comes up bone dry in understanding global climate changes. He doesn't seem to understand the interplay between population and capacity of an environment to sustain it. His sense of history is as poor as George Bush's, although his ethics, refreshingly, are a lot better.
The next vice president needs to represent America's change from carbon-based fuels to renewable energy.
That's a shame Mr. Randall.
Gov. Huckabee was, almost without a doubt, the most principled person in either of the primary campaigns. If you are doing max donations, my guess is you don't like Gov. Huckabee's interest in spending some money in the right places. There is probably not a better example anywhere of the idea of 'compassionate capitalism' than you see with him.
Sen. McCain...putting Gov. Huckabee on your ticket is the one way you can guarantee the votes from my wife and me. So, you are even up on votes counting us and the Randalls at this point with that decision.
huckabee and not romney
What? And risk losing the polygamist vote?
Huck No!
I can't vote for Obama. I can't vote for Huckabee. For the first time in my life I will stay home from the polls.
ugh
please don't let the wolf in the hen house
To Mr. Randall
I find it hard for anyone who knows much about Huckabee to dislike him or think that he wouldn't do a good job as V.P. In fact, I don't know anyone in that category on either side of the ticket. I am a Huckabee supporter, but I don't agree with him on certain social or religious issues. However, I don't agree with many people on all or even most of those issues. Thankfully, our system of government does not permit the President to have much (if any) authority with respect to those issues. Moreover, Huckabee is not an oppressive man and respects the beliefs of others. That is the type of person that I want leading my country. I would encourage you to reconsider your position.
Creationist
I want to vote for McCain, but I will not vote for someone that igonres the theoroy of evolution and beieves in creationism - frightening.
Huck for Veep
Huckabee Rocks
Huck all the way
The only way I vote, period, is if McCain has Huckabee running with him.
Huckabee schmuckabee
"Gov. Huckabee was, almost without a doubt, the most principled person in either of the primary campaigns."
Uhhh.. hardly, Mr Lymburner. That title is reserved exclusively for Dr. Ron Paul.
huckabee
I've always wanted a VP that is tops in science. HE Doesn't believe in evolution.
Too Conservative
McCain's greatest advatange in the race is his view of being lightly conservative and dancing slightly over to the left on certain issues. Why would he ruin that with Huckabee? Foolish if you ask me. Find another guy in the middle, and he can't lose. I wont vote for huckabee, thats for sure.
Huckerbee = Guaranteed vote loser
All those independents that McCain is courting will abandon him in droves if he picks Huckerbee.
McCain is 73. Huckerbee would be a heartbeat away, and thus a likely President. Independent voters just aren't going to want a president who doesn't believe in evolution.
Huckerbee is simply too religious to retain the votes McCain needs.
What a mistake!!!
McCain would loose all of New England to the Democrats if Huckabeeeeeeee is the VP candidate so PLEASE PLEASE don't do this to your loyal Republican following here in New England.......
Huckster
Well, I suppose if McCain wants to further alienate conservatives, and turn off the rest of the non-evangelical country. What Huck did during the primaries will be fodder for the Dems during a campaign.
And, wow, McCain has every chance of losing the West, where Huck bombed ingloriously and actually made many, many enemies.
Yes to Hiclabee
That would be the only good reason to vote for McCain.
Colbert
Davinx--
You know that Colbert is a joke, right? That his on-air persona isn't who he really is? That he is actually making fun of the viewpoint "he" espouses? If you don't get the joke, what does that make you?
Chuck Norris
The only better VP than Huck would be Walker Texas Ranger himself!
hukafree
Didn't Hukabee relase a rapist only to have that rapist rape and murder another person. This guy may be compassionate, but his record shows he is a bit naive. Why do the republicans have to be religious nuts by default?
Tough decision for McCain
This is going to be a tough decision for McCain. If he chooses Romney he looses in the south, if he chooses Huckabee he has not chance in the Mountain West. He may be better off picking someone respected by the entire country like Conde Rice or someone similar.
McCain is lousy
I've always been a conservative. But do you remember the negative campaigning McCaine did in the Florida primary? The automated calls going out with lies about Romney? It was a lot like something a clinton would do. That just irks me. And the fact that he is so liberal on his views concerning immigration, he's no conservative. I wouldn't vote for McCain if his running mate was the pope. I'll either vote liberterian or write in the best candidate in 12 years, Ron Paul.
There goes the west
If McCain chooses Huckabee Utah will go Democrat for the first time since FDR. And for that matter so will Idaho, Arizona, Montana, possibly Colorado. With the last several close races can McCain possibly lose any states and still win?
Strong Vote of Confidence for McCain/Huckabee
A great ticket of McCain/Huckabee has my vote, friends and family.
McCain & Cain
Huckabee is a much better choice than Romney, however, I think the Sen should consider Dr. Herman Cain, a man with common sense on economic issues. I think that would help boost McCain's economic prowess.
Oh sweet mother of Zeus
There is no way I would ever vote for Huckabee on any ticket. Even if someone I like was at the head of the ticket (which McCain is definitely not one of those people), I couldn't vote for a Huckabee as Veep ticket. Ever. It seems like the Republican party is dead-set on disenfranchising somebody. They don't like social activists, but they'll patronize them with this Huckabee crap and alienate the small-government fiscal conservatives, or they put executives with no foreign policy experience in power. Where are the leaders of this party? If Huckabee is the future, I need to find a new club, this one's dues are way too high.
Huckabee/VP
Oh goodie - yet another reason for this Conservative to NOT vote for McCain. Huckabee is a stomach turner in the Arkansas Clintonian manner. Joe LIEberman was on Fox News Channel this morning singing the Maverick McCain's praises.
huck
you got my vote mccain in nov if hucks on the ticket, but i live in texas so it doesn't really matter because you have texas already...maybe i'll move to a swing state for the general
Bad choices all around
Ron Paul is acceptable. McCain was okay eight years ago but put party loyalty above what's best for the country. Obama's too green and Hilary's just repulsive. It's time we had a Constitutional Convention and made some major changes.
Fair tax
You know these days your view of evolution ought to be a deciding factor in a presidential campaign. Forget tax reform, tenacity, judicial views, experience, compassion, and understanding of people's concerns.
Evolution
Also, global warming.
Read up on the fair tax please. Whatever his personal views of species origins is much less important to American well being than our tax code is.
www.fairtax.org
not my vote, not ever
I dislike McCain, but would vote for him just to keep us out of the hands of Obama.
Unless he runs with Huckabee. I will never vote for Huckabee.
McCain doesn't need the conservatives that will be reassured by Huckabee. He needs the ones that will be reassured by Romney, Thompson, Hunter, Rice. The not-nuts conservatives. Give me Paulenty, Thune, Chris Cox, Christ - Huckabee would be like running with Ron Paul. DONT DO IT.
Everyone is missing the point
The problem is Huckabee is not a good person...at least no better than anyone involved in running for President. He proved himself to be one with a quick tongue and two faces. Never shirked away from an opportunity to express his righteousness while jumping even quicker on others for their follies. He lulls the southern Christians along with jokes and giggles while demonstrating through out his campaign that he doesn't understand Government. He offers big ideas like flat taxes but when questioned on how to make it happen looks like a deer in headlights then tells a funny joke. Funny jokes....exactly what our Government needs.
Yes to Huckabee baby
I'm a very conservative republican that will support McCain, but I will like it more if Huckabee was on the ticket. McCain would make a wise choise if he picked Huckabee. Huckabee has most of the conservative vote and would still keep the independents on McCain side. Huck is a great communicator and would match up well with out speaking Obama. Most people find Huckabee a likable man, that would also help with the independent vote.
However I'm not sure that I what Huckabee on the ticket for one reason only. I'm pridicting that the Republicans will lose this fall. It won't be good for Huckabee to be on a losing ticket. ( I think regardless of who McCain pick, he will lose, but I believe picking Huckabee would be his best bet)
Yes, Huck
Huck as veep has a lot of merits to it. Look at all the candidates out there, find one who spent as little as huck and yet get as many votes as Huck. He could well be the candidate with the best dollar spent per vote metric. One big advantage of Huck is his communication skills, one that no one, even the Messiah Obama himself can match. In bad economic times, a populist message is one that sells and here we are in a recession. Does tax cuts for millionaires sell better than some government assistance of heating fuel for the poor in states like Ohio, Penn or Wisconsin or Michigan? The only thing McCain must be darn sure of is Huck didn't make any "Rev Wright like" sermons in the past. Will the media eager to attack Huck as a preacher, a pastor so he is not up for the job? Huck is exactly the kind of voters that "Bittergate" reflects...lower income, cling to religion, guns etc etc. Send him to campaign in West/Central PA, Southern Ohio, West Virginia, Northern Michigan, Central Wisconsin and foregt the rest of the country...he can go around in the small towns, the rural towns and really be helpful. Huck is not a bad pick, better than Romney to say the least.
Huckabee
I wasn't planning on voting for McCain but if Huckabee is on the ticket then McCain will get my vote
Why would I support a ticket that has a religious bigot in the no. 2 spot?
Won't.. . and that's only the first reason to not vote for ticket with Huckabee on it. I'm a conservative Republican: conservative on all three prongs. I've got trouble with McCain and trouble with Huckabee.
I might be sitting this one out too. Every time I think I can vote for McCain he does something to upset me.. . . Huckabee on the ticket would be the crowning blow.
Huckabee is a HORRIBLE choice
He has not concept of separation of church and state. I don't believe Obama will be any better of a president than Carter, but I'd rather have him than a constitutional disaster like Huckabee.
McCain's VP
I would prefer J.C. Watts, with a life story as compelling as McCain's, to a back-water governor who will not attract new voters.
McCain/Huckabee 2008
This is the year for a huge lower to middle income earners turnout to vote. McCain/Huckabee both appeal to them. The Dems will be in for a real fight for those voters. The truth about Huckabee's conservative record will come out and put all the lies to rest. Huckabee appeals to moderate and conservative voters regardless of race. He is consistent on all the moral values and willing to offer a helping hand rather than handouts like the Dems do. Huckabee will bring plenty of grassroots support. With Huckabee on the ticket the south will not belong only to Obama; there will be a real interesting competition going on.
No Huckabee
I have always voted for the Republican presidential candidate, even if I was less than enthralled with that person. I don't care much for McCain but had planned to reluctantly vote for him over the Democrat candidate. If Huckabee is the VP candidate, however, I will absolutely not vote for McCain. This is more than I am willing to stomach.
GO McCain/Huckabee
The only reason I'd vote for McCain is if he chooses Huckabee. If not, I'll write Huck's name in and vote in protest! My wife and friends feel the same way.
Huckabee for VP
I wasn't thrilled with McCain, but with a VP candidate like Huckabee running with him, he definitely has my vote.
Got my vote
I really thought that I was going to have to vote for Hillary, but if Huck is on the McCain ticket sign me up!
I'm a Republican
I'm a conservative Republican, and am finding it very hard to support McCain. I supported Romney because I've know him for more than 15 years as the most honest, hard working, morally upstanding person I've ever met. Huckabee seems nice, but doesn't even hold a candle to Mitt when it comes to skills.
McCain/Romney I would vote for, McCain/Thompson I might vote for. McCain/Huckabee? No way. I'd sooner vote for Obama and start working immediately on the Romney 2012 campaign... I honestly think that although Obama wouldn't get anything done, he might get real Republicans to THINK a little bit and coalesce around someone with some real abilities, not just political position or gimmicky endorsers.
The fact that we couldn't figure out that Romney was by far the best candidate, as a party, and as a country, is a sad commentary on the state of our Nation.
But as Bono says, "There's always pain before the birth."
Mike Huckabee is the One!
Mike Huckabee is by far the best choice. He and McCain get along well. They share the view that the government's fiscal house must be put back in order. Huckabee is a great campaigner and debater. And most importantly, the Huckabee loyalists feel the media robbed him of the nomination and will vote for McCain only if he is on the ticket. And there are millions of them.
No respect for anyone who runs with McCain
I can't stand John McCain, but I'll probably vote for him to prevent inflicting Obama or Clinton on our soldiers serving in harms way. That's the only reason, however. Otherwise, I'd be staying home.
Anyone who agrees to be his running mate will lose my respect.
McCain and Huckabee
My family and I will vote for McCain/Huckabee who will work towards:
- No new taxes
- Immigration reform
- Family
- Reduce goverment spending.
Huck the man!
If you people are smart then think! vote for theman who can win the Southern states. Mike Huckabee will be a good choice for VP. McCain will win most Southern States only IF Governor Mike Huckabee is is his running mate.
McCain's Revenge
McCain is a very petty and vindictive individual. Putting Huck on the ticket would let him stick it to conservatives in general and Mitt Romney in particular. I think that appeals to him.
Dear Fellow Anti-Huckabee Drones
We should make an effort to be creative in our Huck-bashing. Our usual tactic of attacking his religion and making false statements about his beliefs has not gotten us very far, as many other people in this country are religious, and some of them, like Huck, are not willing to sell out their beliefs to get what they want. It is better to lie about his economic record, although it makes us look pretty stupid to be against the most prominent supporter of the Fair Tax. Another possible strategy is to try to belittle his background as "backwoods," even though he finished a 4-year college program in 2 1/2 years. If we can keep people from learning the facts, perhaps we can keep this dangerous pro-American Christian lunatic out of power. Above all, never refer to him as "governor." Always refer to him as "Preacher Huckleberry."
McCain-Huckabee
If Huck is on the ballot with McCain , McCain WILL HAVE the vote of my family.
Huckabee is an Excellent Choice for VP!
I live in a swing state and wasn't going to vote for McCain (especially if Romney would be VP) but if he chooses Huckabee, McCain will definitely get my vote.
Huckabee is a great choice because he balances McCain (he is charismatic where McCain can be dry; he will bring southern votes and Christian votes; he is a man of character and is seen as a maverick in his own right; McCain and Huckabee seem to genuinely like each other- this chemistry will really help him)
Man's dual nature
We all have two natures. One is a self-protective nature that seeks to monopolize resources to maximize our sense of security. The other is a communal nature that cares equally about others. Those natures are always in conflict in each person. Businessmen who acquire great wealth have an over-developed self-protective and aggressive nature. That quality is not what is needed in a President who must inspire the country to service and sacrifice. Mike Huckabee is the prototype of the great President, the minister who cares about others, the administrator who knows how to make tough decisions to balance competing interests. He would be a great President. On the other hand, no business tycoon has ever been elected President. That is why Romney will never be President or Vice-President. But if he plays his cards right, he can go on to become a billionaire, and earn everyone's enmity!
HUCKABEE
ISAY "YES" TO HUCKABEE
huckleberry
I have voted for the Gop since '92. But if Mccain puts Huckleberry on the ticket, I will vote for Bob Barr and let Obama win.
Huckabee would be a good choice.....
10 1/2 years of successful executive experience (named one of America's top 5 governors) and chosen by his peers to lead the Governor's Association. Consistently conservative yet able to appeal to Democrats, Independents, Minorities, etc. Capable of running a positive, issues oriented campaign. Helps accross the South, helps with Evangelicals.....good choice
It does not matter..
because the Republican scoundrels are toast.
Is this a joke?
McCain has very little chance with either Huckabee or Romney. Huck's a good guy, nice smile but zero understanding of 21st century science. He's a throw back to the witch hunt days here in Massachusetts. Romney, we delt with this guy for too many years already. Yes, he understands finance, but it's from the same prespective that got our economy into this mess. Republicans need some hope that when McCain dies of old age in office, they'll be a bright young thinker type to step into the oval. Actually, there is no hope for Republicans till 2012.. it will take that long at least to get the taste of GWB out of our mouths.
Huckabee/McCain
If we can't have a Huckabee/ ????? ticket we might as well have McCain/Huckabee,
thats the only way my family and I will vote for te presidential election.
huckabee
Obama gets the Hamas endorsement ,and with his wanting to negotiate with Iran(like Neville Chamberlin talking to Hitler before WW2 )a Hezballah endorsement certainly sure to follow. McCain/ Huckabee can have my endorsement for what it's worth. Unlike Obama one things for sure, a McCain / Huckabee ticket sure won't
be on the wish list of Syria / Hamas/ Iran/ Hezballah/ al Quida/ Islamic Jihad Al Aksa Martyrs Brigade and on and on....
McCain for VP
We need the fresh ideas of Huckabee in the White House as President, McCain for VP. Away with the IRS and hello paychecks.
J.C. Watts, anyone?
Marc A. Mallon, I have also thought that J.C. Watts would be an excellent choice. He has the experience, knowledge, and leadership skills that would give McCain the boost he needs to overcome the Dems attacks. Also, he seems to be extremely genuine when he speaks, and concerned about pronciples and people alike. J.C. Watts for VEEP!
No way will I vote for Obama
I don't want my cap gains taxes doubled, don't want our President giving face to Hamas by sitting down to talks with them, don't want a guy with almost no record and the lack of judgment to go to Rev. Wright's church for 20 years.
That being said... if Huck is McCain's VP pick... I may stay home. And I'm a conservative Christian... I'm just not sure about Huckabee's credentials. He seems like a nice guy, but, like Obama, I wonder if he is qualified to lead the US?
Go Huckabee
McCain will definately get my vote if he picks Huckabee.
For those of you who think Huckabee's Creationist views are anti-science, you better check again. Goo-to-you evolution is an unsubstantiated speculation with no scientific evidence. Science has failed to prove that Macro-evolution is even possible, let alone that it actually happened.
As far as global warming. Scientific research shows that we have at most increased the global temperature by 1/4 of one degree in the last 100 years, and even that is questionable. Check recent headlines, there are several prominent scientist, and climatologists that are now saying that we are more likely going into a period of global cooling, and that the earth's temperature is affected more by sunspot activity than what we have done with greenhouse gasses. And yes Huckabee does support the development of alternate energy sources.
Don't just read the liberal news, do your homework, find out what Huckabee really believes.
Inserting Jesus Into The Consitutition
"[Some of my opponents] do not want to change the Constitution, but I believe it’s a lot easier to change the constitution than it would be to change the word of the living God, and that’s what we need to do to amend the Constitution so it’s in God’s standards rather than try to change God’s standards,"
Have Republicans really forgotten what it's means to be an actual conservative? Apparently some do.
Huck for President
Where's all this ignorance that's been posted? Is everyone blind?? Blah, Blah, Blah. Lets get the right the person that actually cares about the normal worker.. oh stupid me, let's get the candidate that cares only about party politics. Wake up folks. Let's actually get it right this time!! Huck for President but for the time we'll take VP.
Huckabee YES
I don't know why so many find Huckabee a bad person. I'm an Arkansan, have loved huckabee since he took office I was like in the 7th grade I'm now 25. I've met him on several occasions at our Governor's trophy contest. He is a very moral person and does know how to keep separation of church & state. No politician is a saint they all made mistakes, and for the most part learn from them. He has to live with the fact that the rapist he released murdered someone, that doesn't make him any less of a person. He's got my vote either way it goes. He is a great guy with great ideas that could take us a long way as he has done for us in AR, example better roads, health ins. for AR children (AR kids 1st), amongst other great things. He is a great speaker and knows how to reach out to the people. He's not afraid to get his hands dirty and get in there with the rest of us unlike most politicians. He gets out to meet the people and get to know them.
Look close at Huckabee!
Don't waste your time on anti-Huck websites. Instead go to wikipedia and look at Huckabee's page. The history there is very balanced. You can read about Huck without pressure from pro or con. It lists ALL his accomplishments. It also gives the facts on his ethics violations in Arkansas. It will also tell you about the rapist he wanted freed from prison, who later raped and killed a woman. You will also read about Huckabee's degree(s) without hype from either side. It will tell you about his tax record, without exageration. You can read about his preference for social programs. You can see how his own statements have created controversy over religion and what he says about how his particular brand of faith should have dominion in public policy. You decide.
YES TO HUCKABEE VP
I think that Huckabee will get the Christian conservatives out to vote for McCain. McCain can't win without the Christian conservative vote.
This election is hilarious
This election is hilarious. The Democrats have an African American that will turn off the racists and those women that can't take a Hillary loss. The Republicans have an aging proillegal amnesty flip flopper in McCain who can't decide on his VP between a Mormon that will turn off the religous South and a Bible thumping big spending Southern preacher that will turn off fiscal conservatives and independents. This election looks like a draw.
YES TO HUCKABEE VP
I think that Huckabee will get the Christian conservatives out to vote for McCain. McCain can't win without the Christian conservative vote.
I love Mike
Mike Huckabee is a trmendous friend of mine. He is well deserving of a position in the White House. I would love to work with him on the very important matters that American families face daily.
one more vote for huckabee
McCain/Huckabee is a sure winner.
Would prefer Steele
Huck's okay but I would prefer Michael Steele.
Yes on Huckabee
I am in agreement with those who say they find it easier to vote for McCain if Huckabee is on the ticket. Also with Huckabee on the ticket I might even be able to actually do some things to help the campaign. Conversely, if he were to pick Romney I would find it much more difficult to vote for him much less support his campaign with man hours and money. For those conservatives or independents who dislike Huckabee go to www.mikehuckabee.com and, if you have not done so already, read his policy platform before making a final judgment.
Me too for Mike
I agree with Hillary from NY. Mike is it. He has all that.
fake out
McCain's campaign is pretending to seriously consider Huckabee as a way to get social conservatives to soften toward McCain. He doesn't really mean it. This is just a polite gesture. It isn't for real.
Mike Huckabee
Mike Huckabee is without a doubt the best possible choice for VP for John McCain and for this nation. He will make an excellent VP and if he is not on the ticket with McCain, then McCain may very well lose to Obama or Clinton. If John McCain cannot finish his term, then Mike Huckabee will make one of the best presidents this nation has ever had. He would be 1000% better than any VP Obama or Clinton might choose. He is a man of principle, honor, and integrity. I suspect most of the negative comments on this website have been submitted by democrats who are really afraid of a McCain-Huckabee ticket because they know it will be stronger than any possible democrat ticket.
Ill Vote McCain Huck
Other wise I was voting Libertarian.
Irony
Wow. Reading through the comments, which it seems most of you don't do, it very entertaining.
It seems the "conservatives" posting don't like Huckabee because he is too liberal
while the "independents" and "democrats" think Huckabee is too conservative.
Personaly I like the idea of a Huck VP, not as much as some others I had in mind, but much more than Pawlenty or Romney who are far to liberal (yes I called Romney a liberal, look at -his- record).
Huckabee is a fine conservative, balenced the indebted Arkansas budget while rebuiling its infrastructure, supports the FAIR TAX (woot), likes 2nd amendment, executive experience. Why not? (science issues don't realy influence my decision on politics).
No on Huck and McCain
I'm a republician, but I will not vote for McCain or Huck. Nor anybody thats going to shove AMNESTY down my throat.
Yes, it is a joke, sort of
This is nothing more than McCain trying to woo the easy to fool "pastor-in-chief" evangelicals, making them believe Huck is on the list. He's not. McCain has no intention of choosing Huckabee. He can't. McCain is looking at OR, WA, and even CA. He'll lose the west BIG TIME with Huck, who offended a large GOP constituency - the Mormons. They are the most conservative voters in the country, and there are millions of them in the westeren states. McCain just said last week that he intends to make religious freedom an issue. He's not going to choose a bigot. Period.
Not only that, as Rove said, Huck would double McCain's troubles with conservatives. Taxes, pardons, ethics violations, foreign policy ignorance, globaloney, - all dealbreakers. Rush and all of talk radio rejected Huck for good reason.
Sorry, Huckies, your "Christian Leader" guy is a complete phoney and will not help McCain reel in true conservatives. McCain isn't going to touch him with a 10 foot pole.
I like Mike Also
Hillary C and Michelle O are right on track. I've never seen MCain eat Gumbo, But Mike H and I have shared a napkin or two. I am a staunch Democrat , but I really value Mike's ideas on the IRS and Homosexuals in the Military. WE DONT NEED 'EM.
I second that. Hucks the man.
As s Huckabee primary voter, I started off thinking that Huckabee was too controversially for the V.P. pick. I am a baptist, so I "get" him I guess, but I have never thought of him as a theocratic guy as some would like to make him out to be. I think he has tremendous compassion for all americans and yes including the unborn and it seems that it's his compassion that get some in an uproar. He supports the Fair Tax which on the surface seems like a stupid idea to some, but once investigated looks much different to me. The more I investigated him the more I saw Huckabee as as a leader. I think his record in Arkansas exhibits thiss best asw he was able to complish many of his initiatives in Arkansas which was dominated by democrat majority in it's state legislatures. I remember watching the republican debate at the Ronald Reagan Library and observing how Huckabee provided enough substance with half the amount of time to win that debate. I remember him taking the unpopular position that americas economy was indeed in trouble when McCain and Romney would not and turn out, Huckabe was right. I also remember how Gov. Schwartzager (sp?) seemed very impressed with Huckabee after that debate. There are some people who want to call Huckabee a bigot but if his record is examined you will find that he gained 40% of the black vote in Arkansas. I can not see how that many blacks who should know him best got that wrong. Just google "Little Rock Nine Mike Huckabee" and I you will see that this is again a false statement . During the primaries I noticed that Huckabee's support in the rural counties was unmatched in the primaries while McCain was splitting the urban counties with Romney, so this in my opinion rules out Romney from consideration.
I guess what I am acknowledging, is that Huckabee has some vocal critics, but I am also beginning to think that his supporters are out numbering his critics enough to place him on the ticket. There was good defense of Huckabee by Curt Smith inwhich he pointed out that Huckabee made sense because he would help to carry Arkansas which is not neccessarily a red state. You certainly would have to believe that. He also points out that Huckabee represents a new kind of republican that is willing to take on some of the not to typical republican issues such as health care and education. Furthermore, he points out that Huckabee does not represent that typical republican brand of the rich white guy like Gov. Crist of Florida embodies. As Huckabee said at last year's FRC Value Voters Conference, "I didn't come to you, I come from you." which brought the crowd to its feet.
I hope McCain does chooses Huckabee. I will also understand if he doesn't.
Huck
Sorry McCain. I just won't vote if Huck is on the ticket. You lose the votes and the maximum campaign donations from both my wife and I.
May 12, 2008 12:55:27 PM [permalink] [report comment]