The American Spectator

p>It’s the danger that he could provoke a third party walkout by social conservatives, and this might prevent Republicans from voting for Rudy even in the primaries. But who know? Nothing is certain now and the electorate is fluid. br> — Peter Skurkiss br> Stow, Ohio. /p> p> Mr. Klein can paper over Rudy’s divergence from the conservative base and diligently and pathetically attempt to paint him as a moderate all he wants, but the truth is he is a Northeastern Liberal who wears an “R” on his sleeve. Sordid past and marriage scandals, pro-abortion (including partial birth), illegal immigration, gay “rights” among many other issues and one Philip skipped over entirely, gun control (or in Rudy’s case more like “let the confiscations begin”) make him an anathema to the right wing. Again talk him up all you want and try to make him palatable, if by some fluke he gets the nomination the result will be a repeat of the 2006 mid terms no matter how his handlers try to project him as the “anti-Hillary.” You heard it here first, A Rudy presidential term is delusion. br> — Craig C. Sarver br> Behind Enemy Lines br> Seattle, Washington /p>

I am in complete agreement with Mr. Klein about the prospect of a Giuliani nomination in 08. Last week, I posited on the AmSpec Blog, a similar formula for Rudy’s success with the base as to his “liberal issues.” Promise to appoint original intent judges, a la Scalia, Thomas, Alito & Roberts and subject these hot button issues to a direct vote by the people, rather than to the will of an elite judicial oligarchy. This is consistent with Giuliani’s philosophy. I believe the base will respond to this intellectually honest respect for the “Will of the People,” with open arms, and, will give Giuliani a pass as to his personal views. How refreshing will that be? Rudy’s “Will of the People” v. McCain’s “Will of the Senate.” Of course, McCain will be singing a different tune by then and the “Gang of 14” will go unmentioned by Russert & Matthews.

p>One final point about Rudy, the Republicans’ and our need for a strong articulate leader going forward. A major factor in last week’s loss was the lack of a strong leadership voice. President Bush, for all his efforts, was drowned out by a hateful media and frankly because at times he was unable to articulate clearly. Giuliani will not suffer the same fate. His personality will, like Reagan’s, overwhelm the simpletons in the MSM. This guy is fast on his feet and razor sharp in wit. And should Rudy find himself up against Madame Hillary, well, that will be fun too. Rudy’s campaign mantra in NY against the faux Yankee fan, Hillary, will be, to quote former Yankee player, Mariano Duncan, “We play today…we win today”. br> — A. DiPentima