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Streetcar Line
Veep: The Long List
Fifteen names, to start with, including a Washington state congresswoman.
The great parlor game of guessing, suggesting, and obsessing about Mitt Romney’s pick for a running mate will continue for three more months — which is all the more reason for political junkies to weigh in early, because any names or arguments mentioned now actually have time to be considered and analyzed by a campaign whose research on this topic ought to be exhaustive.
In that light, let’s get started with some real names to add to my “Crazy Eight,” while keeping in mind the considerations that should guide the process: experience, philosophical soundness, and definitely the ability to politically help the ticket. Right now my list includes a nice, round 25 names. Today we’ll count down, in no particular order, the 15 choices who should begin on the list but who, for now at least, don’t look likely to crack the top 10 — which isn’t precluding the potential for further consideration to reveal particular strengths that could vault them to the top of the list. This list does not include a number of people who fail my Two-Year Rule for the bare minimum of highly relevant experience (in politics or in very high business or military posts) — among whom, alas for their fans, are South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez, U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire, U.S. Rep. Allen West of Florida, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, and U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky.
I’m also excluding people who will be on Romney’s list but whom conservatives should oppose: Jeb Bush (please don’t give Obama a chance to make this a referendum on Bushes and on political dynasticism), Mike Huckabee (ethics and especially pardons would provide too much fodder for devastating attacks from the Obamites), and Condoleezza Rice (her record with Bush wasn’t actually very good; grassroots conservatives would not be energized).
Before beginning, one other note: At least in theory, I think there is an alternative way to imagine a Veep choice. Obviously, one way, probably the better one (as will be seen in most of my picks), is to choose somebody young enough to succeed Romney as nominee/president — in short, to choose the “next in line” regardless of whether Romney wins this autumn or not. But the alternative is to pick an elder statesman, somebody in his late 60s or early 70s, who will never run on his own but who could easily step in as president were something to happen to Romney — thus mitigating the political repercussions of the pick for the future, and concentrating only on the here and now. Another advantage of such a choice is for him to raise a new issue in the campaign, specifically identifiable with him and credible specifically because of his recognized experience with the issue, as a secondary avenue of attack against Obama that the Veep choice can make his own while the presidential nominee focuses on the economy.
Without further ado, let’s list the names, with one sentence why they should be on the list and another about why they might not be the strongest choices.
U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint, S.C. — Pro: Nobody in the country would better energize Tea Partiers, and his libertarianism would help bring Ron Paulites into the fold. Con: No geographical advantages, questionable appeal to swing voters either in suburbia or among non-southern blue-collar workers.
Gov. Luis Fortuño, Puerto Rico — Pro: Superb, free-market record as governor combined with impressive communications ability, plus at least a somewhat significant extra presumed appeal to the 434,000 people of Puerto Rican heritage in semi-swing state New Jersey and 366,000 in semi-swing state Pennsylvania. Con: Unknown nationally, might look like a gimmick pick, plus would take him away from his own tough re-election race in its final two months.
Gov. John Kasich, Ohio — Pro: If (and only if) his approval ratings in Ohio have risen significantly by August, he could help in this most crucial of states, plus would enjoy tremendous credibility for federal budget-balancing work in the 1990s — and he has proven blue-collar appeal. Con: Approval ratings remain underwater right now, plus the Obamites would try to make hay of his post-Congress career with Lehman Brothers.
U.S. Sen. John Thune, S.D. — Pro: Acceptable throughout Republican Party, doesn’t scare anybody, and looks the part. Con: No geographical advantages, and has no signature accomplishments in office and no record of highly significant leadership.
Former Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Minn. — Pro: Safe, broadly acceptable, plus might help make Minnesota more competitive. Con: Uninspiring, and there is little evidence from his two sub-50 percent gubernatorial-election vote tallies that he would really be able to deliver Minnesota for the ticket from his perch in the number two spot.
Former Gov. John Engler, Mich. — Pro: Was a wildly successful governor of a state Romney really thinks he can snatch from the Dems, plus has a huge national fund-raising base from his stint as head of the National Association of Manufacturers. Con: Sixteen years after first being considered for Veep, he could come across as old news, and his post-gubernatorial career on K Street might be a political vulnerability.
Gov. Terry Branstad, Iowa — Pro: Would almost certainly deliver the swingiest of swing states in which he has won an astonishing five (!!) elections for governor. Con: Opinions differ considerably as to whether he is conservative enough to avoid depressing Tea Party enthusiasm.
Former Gov. Matt Blunt, Missouri — Pro: Produced a splendidly conservative record as governor of a state without which Republicans can’t win the presidency, but which remains anything but in the bag for Romney. Con: Strangely declined to run for re-election despite young age and growing poll ratings; and, as the son of U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt, he could extrude a bit too much of a whiff of a dreaded “establishment” legatee.
House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Dave Camp, Mich. — Pro: Like Engler, would help Romney compete in an otherwise blue state, and his record on taxes and welfare is excellent. Con: Despite powerful post, has nearly no national profile, and his record on spending is more moderate than conservative.
(Note: Here starts the four-person list of “elder statesmen” possibilities.)
About the Author
Quin Hillyer is a senior editor of The American Spectator and a senior fellow at the Center for Individual Freedom. Follow him on Twitter @QuinHillyer.
Letter to the Editor View all comments (153) | Leave a comment
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Questions| 5.17.12 @ 6:22AM
Janice Rodgers Brown hasn't any foreign policy experience, which ought to be a consideration.
The person selected must be able to do the job AND provide a political advantage on the campaign trail.
Michael Mukasey is another who doesn't have enough bang for the buck so to speak.
Likewise Condi Rice, who would only bring the dead weight of the whole GW foreign policy years on board the Romney train, for that reason alone she should be barred from consideration.
What of South Dakotan Congresswoman Kristi Noem? Tremendously articulate, photogenic.
Pseudo Intellectual | 5.17.12 @ 7:13AM
Kelly Ayotte would be sensational....the only pro-life female Senator...a Catholic conservative
randyinrocklin| 5.17.12 @ 1:49PM
she ended up being co-opted by the Establishment. another RINO.
DG in GA| 5.17.12 @ 11:26AM
Considering that Obama appears to be planning to run with Joe Biden again, I suspect ANYONE Romney chooses will be a safe bet. Can there BE any bigger idiot in U.S. politics than Joe Biden?????
Mac Jehoff| 5.17.12 @ 8:48PM
Yes, Barack Hussein Obama.
Occam's Tool| 5.17.12 @ 12:01PM
Pawlenty is dull, and uninspiring. Bachmann forced him out.
Kristi has served less than 2 years, I think.
Vern Crisler| 5.17.12 @ 2:17PM
Given that Romney is a moderate, election strategy suggests he should choose a conservative for his VP.
However, it probably doesn't matter. Obama or his campaign are self-destructing at least once a week, so Romney could probably choose a non-entity and still win.
Elias| 5.17.12 @ 6:18PM
By your logic, that Romney will win regardless due to obama campaign self-destruction, it would then become imperative for Romney to select a younger, truly conservative veep to be groomed to succeed him as potus.
BodieInSD| 5.17.12 @ 6:19PM
Tom Coburn, the retiring Senator from Oklahoma?
Rock-solid conservative, "friend" of President Obama yet still holding to his principles, and serious without being condescending.
Flayer| 5.17.12 @ 9:45PM
I'd save Janice Rodgers Brown for SCOTUS.
Questions| 5.17.12 @ 6:31AM
Florida Governor Rik Scott ought to be barred, likewise Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, their handling of the Trayvon Martin case has now become a flat out travesty and a gross miscarriage of justice.
Barky K. Nine | 5.17.12 @ 7:15AM
Yes, barred and disbarred for their disgraceful pandering to the mobs...
Jack in Wi.| 5.17.12 @ 6:34AM
Quin: The last time you did this you came up with a horrible list of nobody's. Well I hate to say it but this list is much worse. Wayne Allard, Mike Mukasey, Ashcroft and Keating are about as unknown and over the hill, as is possible to be without being phyically dead. All the rest are people that sane no politician would pick, with the possible exception of Jim Demint.
Doug Bandow, a sometime writer on this site, has written a devastating commentary on Romney's foreign policy experience. It calls him a know nothing on foreign policy. It excoriates him for being surrounded with neocon retreads of the G. W. Bush regime. It is really one of the best things I have seen on the horrible possiblity of a Romney administration on foreign policy. The editors of this publication would do well to reprint it . It is so good, it needs wide distrbution.
Vern Crisler| 5.17.12 @ 2:19PM
Foreign policy is probably the only good thing about Romney.
Gary B| 5.17.12 @ 7:15AM
The VP pick should be an energetic, anti-establishment, Tea Party-bosting conservative champion first and foremost to compensate for RINO Romney. This would send a signal that Romney has seen the light and can lead the country out of our Marxist mess.
Regarding the geographic aspect... I wonder how important that is nowadays. Shouldn't a strong fiscal conservative indicate that the goal is to keep the entire country from going over a cliff? All Americans need to get on board the rescue wagon. Liberals (international Marxists) need not apply, of course. Their main function will be to entertain the rest of us while we repair the American Dream.
R Martin| 5.17.12 @ 7:35AM
As for experience and qualifications, doesn’t the Obama administration make those issues problematic? Obama won with shuck and jive, high sounding rhetoric, shtick and a VP widely regarded as phony and inept.
My problem with Mr. Hillyer’s list(s) is that they are filled with charter members of the ineptocracy—people who have been in government long enough to be part of the problem. They are the people who got us into the grave economic and fiscal mess we face and who have demonstrated little ability to make good decisions in critical situations.
Perhaps Romney should think outside the box—consider the military, find someone tough but likeable, respected and self assured with demonstrated leadership qualities. The military is filled with people like that. Government is not.
Mimi| 5.17.12 @ 8:39AM
R .M.....A leader, tough, grounded, newbie...Well spoken, from an important state.. strong conservative , and MILITARY experience= ALLEN WEST !!
Mimi| 5.17.12 @ 8:42AM
And.....match them all up...look at them side by side...NO ONE comes close!
Gary B| 5.17.12 @ 9:08AM
Right. And he's not afraid to say what we're all thinking. Newt did the same thing, but his baggage was excessive.
Mimi| 5.17.12 @ 10:35AM
Gary...Newt sure did a great job...So did Santorum. They both should be looked at for V.P.!
RickZ| 5.20.12 @ 1:13PM
Newt for Press Secretary.
Better than Saturday Night Live.
He will generate top ratings for the imaginative ways he takes the Slanted Media apart.
Elias| 5.17.12 @ 6:23PM
Hillier excludes Alan West, claiming he doesn't have the requisite min. 2 yrs at a military leadership position. How many years did West spend as an officer? Surely more than 2.
benny havens| 5.17.12 @ 7:57AM
What this president has done, and hasn’t done, is the issue for this campaign. The economic crisis that has developed under the Obama regime is the topic. The VP pick is secondary. A Tea Party conservative would make me happy but Romney needs to remain focused on the economy. When asked about VP picks, free condoms and diaphragms, hazing from 50 years ago or what kind of pizza does he like, he needs to answer “it’s the economy, stupid”.
Derek Leaberry| 5.17.12 @ 8:13AM
It will be one of the plodders- Rob Portman or Bob McDonnell. As I don't see Portman helping Romney in Ohio- Portman's free trade stance doesn't help with blue collar independents in a state like Ohio- it will likely be McDonnell, who will help Romney carry Virginia. Virginia is a must-win state for Romney.
James W. | 5.17.12 @ 8:22AM
Quinn: How about Bobby Jindal?
NeilBJ| 5.18.12 @ 8:03PM
Not a natural born citizen.
Clint| 5.17.12 @ 8:46AM
VP Candidates Don't Win Elections.
This Is McCain Redux.
Oldefarte| 5.17.12 @ 1:47PM
Especially those named Paul !!!!!!!!!
Clint| 5.17.12 @ 2:48PM
Not Even Bibi, Israel Firster Smear Bund Bibi Cabana Boy, Fart Rump.
" Gingrich: Conservatives Won't Let Wall St. And Romney "Buy Election"
"Look, the conservative movement is not going to sit by and let a Massachusetts liberal, who's pro-abortion, pro-gun control, pro-tax increase, pro-gay rights, whose Romneycare in two articles in the last 24 hours were described as the equivalent of Obamacare and who George Soros says is just fine. He'd be happy with either Obama or Romney [be]cause they are both the establishment -- that's just George Soros," Newt
Gingrich told FOX News' Bret Baier on the campaign trail in Tampa, Florida.
"Now, the conservative movement isn't going to sit back and say 'Oh yes, let's let Wall Street, and Goldman Sachs and Mitt Romney buy the election. So you're going to see a real grass roots fight. It will be people power vs. Goldman Sachs and Mitt Romney," he added."
Mike Hawk| 5.17.12 @ 3:36PM
If Bibi was on the ballot he'd probably beat Ron Paul.
Clint| 5.17.12 @ 4:38PM
Only Among Traitor Bastard Israel Firsters, Little Micky Hawklette.
Ronald Reagan,
"Ron Paul is one of the outstanding leaders fighting for a stronger national defense. As a former Air Force officer, he knows well the needs of our armed forces, and he always puts them first. We need to keep him fighting for our country."
BodieInSD| 5.17.12 @ 6:22PM
And then Paul quit the Republican party over "principles", and then returned after the party had moved further away from Paul's professed libertarian "principles"...
Elias| 5.17.12 @ 6:25PM
another post by Clint
(scroll... scroll...)
Oldefarte| 5.18.12 @ 4:15PM
Speaking of elections, are you as a "PRACTICING CATHOLIC" going to vote for the ONE this professor at Catholic University says you've been waiting for for 2400 years ????? :
'....... Breitbart.com New Book: David Axelrod Privately Calls Obama 'Black Jesus' by Charles C. Johnson 4 hours ago David Axelrod privately calls Barack Obama “Black Jesus,” according to Edward Klein’s fantastic new book, The Amateur (p. 59).“[Barack Obama] is the living, breathing apotheosis of the American melting pot,” Klein quotes Axelrod as saying.Axelrod, as we know, isn’t alone. According to Klein, Micah Tillman, lecturer in philosophy at the Catholic University of America, called Obama “the Platonic philosopher king we’ve been looking for the past 2,400 years.” And no less an authority than Oprah has called him “The One.”
So was he born in a manger, too?........'
Jim| 5.17.12 @ 8:51AM
Judge Andrew Napolitano
Would appeal to Tea Party, Ron Paul followers. Is well known.
Sparky| 5.17.12 @ 9:35AM
I like Cathy McMorris Rodgers, but was surprised when, on Kudlow's show a couple weeks ago, John Dean just ran her over on the issue of pay equity. I'm not suggesting that Dean got the better of the argument on the merits, but he absolutely dominated the conversation. McMorris Rodgers may need to develop a stiffer spine for those kinds of on-air brawls.
randyinrocklin| 5.17.12 @ 1:51PM
any woman with two last names is disqualified in my book.
TrueBlue | 5.18.12 @ 10:51AM
Because?
silver bullet| 5.17.12 @ 9:38AM
You want some great but improbable names?
Antonin Scalia.
Clarence Thomas.
Robert Bork.
Rush Limbaugh.
JimH| 5.17.12 @ 1:27PM
Ted Nugent?
Elias| 5.17.12 @ 6:26PM
Mark Levin
JTH| 5.17.12 @ 9:39AM
VA Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli. Solid conservative and the perfect person to attack Obamacare on 10th Amendment grounds.
Quin| 5.17.12 @ 10:35AM
Cuccinelli was the single closest name to inclusion on my list whom, in the end, I chose not to include. As AG -- not governor, not senator, but AG -- of a mid-sized state for less than three years, does he pass the test of credible president at a moment's notice? Well he should get huge bonus points for his leadership on the health care legal fight, and yes, he is a terrific public speaker and a superb campaigner. If he were chosen, I would be absolutely thrilled. I welcome other comments on the Cuccinelli idea.
R Martin| 5.17.12 @ 11:37AM
I could name ten people right off the top of my head who comment on these pages, people who have never been AG, Governor, Senator, etc., people who may not even come from a midsized state who could pass the test of credible president at a moment’s notice, at least compared to the president we’ve got. I still think there are too few politicians out there with clean hands. Romney needs to find a rainmaker from a different line of work.
Crassus| 5.17.12 @ 9:40AM
Outside the box! Outside the box! I hate that cliche! This is serious business. No more outside the box. Please.
Ddog| 5.17.12 @ 10:34AM
Who are you, Hedley Lamarr? Despite your tender sensibilities, the box is what we’re in, corralled by politicians with limited facilities for broad new thinking. Lighten-up, mate. You yourself need to start thinking outside the…(fill in the blank).
Bobloblaw| 5.17.12 @ 12:08PM
""Who are you, Hedley Lamarr?""
That's Headley.........
Albert Constantine Jr.| 5.17.12 @ 8:28PM
Expand your paradigm?
Peppermint Tea| 5.17.12 @ 9:46AM
Natalie Portman. Get the Jewish vote in play.
LE Powers| 5.17.12 @ 12:50PM
"Meanwhile, if readers have other out-of-the-box suggestions (please no obvious Ryan/Portman/Rubio entries, etcetera, because of course the front-runners will all get covered in my next column), please post them in the comments section."
I was wondering WHY Natalie Portman, as I thought she was a tad too liberal for the post. BUT being Emperess of the Universe certainly is a qualification for high office... ;D
bill| 5.17.12 @ 11:14PM
This poor peppermint patty read Portman and immediately thought about that naked girl in that movie! Dude!!
sailfastliveslow| 5.17.12 @ 9:47AM
Allen West all the way....he has broad appeal among Constitutional conservatives, he has been largely vetted and known nationally for his proven Military record, but most importantly, media attemtps to besmirch him would backfire on the racisit Lib / Media... PC be damned..WEST says what needs to be said, look how Newt and Trump energized the BASE when they did.....Alas the RINO will not pick a conservative though, the Establishment RNC will not allow a Conservative foothold....even if it means them losing....sad
AhiaGuy| 5.17.12 @ 10:51AM
Another vote for Allen West!
The only drawback to Col. West is his lack of political background---which might be refreshing to many. And his military background would appeal to middle America.
The guy would certainly be the bad cop to Romney's good cop, and he'd chew Biden to pieces in a debate. Watch some of his clips on YouTube. He's no lightweight in a debate, and he's not afraid to say what many of us "bitter clingers" think.
Bill| 5.17.12 @ 11:38AM
I'm not sure Aleen West can win his re-election bid. He's running in a newly drwan district and ties with his Democrat challenger.
Paul Kotik| 5.17.12 @ 2:50PM
I'm not sure, either. And I live in those parts. I live a few hundred yards from Allen West, and I'm not sure at this point whether I'm in his district or whether he's in his district. Plus I have Debbie Wasserpersonschultz on my left flank. Good times.
Elias| 5.17.12 @ 6:30PM
Thanks for reminding me: looks like it's time for me to send Mr West another $donation. Maybe you should, too.
Bill| 5.17.12 @ 9:55AM
Quick Pick:
1. Bob McDonald: The South
2. Chris Christie: Straight talker, no apology, NJ turns RED
3. Kelly Ayotte: The women votes
4. Pat Toomey: Anti-tax crusader, swing state PA
5. Rob Portman: Budget guru, swing state OH
6. Paul Ryan: Genius
7. Marco Rubio: DREAM Act??????????????
8. Jeb Bush: Sunshine Bush dynasty
And the VP is......................
KennesawJack| 5.17.12 @ 9:59AM
Quin, I am about to risk all of the good will I think I've built up among my conservative brethern on this site but here is my pick for Veep,
Colin Powell. Yes, I know he endorsed Obamarx last go 'round but here are the reasons I think he would make a politically astute choice. First and foremost, his attitude on entering military conflict. As the daddy of an Army Special Forces Major who gets to see his much-loved son about two weeks a year (if lucky) the Powell Doctrine has immense appeal, not only to me, but to a population that is weary of war. For those of you not familiar with the Powell Doctrine, it is essentially this: Wait until you have everything ready, hit 'em as hard as you can with all you got then get the hell out. Secondly, his stint as Secretary of State makes up for Romney's lack of experience in foreign affairs. Thirdly, the fact that he is African-American, supported Obamarx, and now joins in the fight to oust him would damage Obamarx in the African-American community, at a degree probably sufficient to defeat him. Fourth, never a hint of scandal. Fifth, it brings a ton of independents to our side, and lastly, he is still admired by the majority of our fighting men and women precisely because they trust he will not use them as cannon fodder for political gain (as Obamarx will do come August against Iran if he is trailing in the polls). You wanted outside the box, this is outside the box. I now sit back and await the vitriol that is about to flow my way.
Bo Darville| 5.17.12 @ 10:40AM
The Tea Partiers would lose their minds if this were the pick due to Romney being a "moderate", too. However, it would be an incredible political maneuver.
KennesawJack| 5.17.12 @ 10:49AM
As it happens, I AM a Tea Partier and I care a whole lot more about defeating Obamarx than anything else.
Flayer| 5.17.12 @ 9:58PM
I would be devastated if Colin Powell were picked as VP. Put him in as Sec.Defense if necessary. But first Colin has to decide if he wants to support a White Republican or a Black Marxist. That might be important, don't you think?
darcy| 5.18.12 @ 3:06AM
Powell is not going to be the pick; moreover, I don't want him anywhere near the orb of DC power in a Republican administration. If anything, Pres. O should dump Biden and replace with him Powell -- it would be a much better fit for who he is than any elected Republican office or cabinet position.
George S| 5.17.12 @ 11:06AM
I would think it would not be an unreasonable prerequisite for the Republican VP not to have voted for Obama. Just my 2 cents.
KennesawJack| 5.17.12 @ 11:16AM
George, I get that. I really do. But I think the prodigal son thing may work and, like I said, I just want to defeat this Marxist. Ithink coming up with a not-well-known VP pick to somehow balance the race or gender thing isn't going to work. If I had a choice and could name anyone in the U. S. as President, it would be Palin but that's not going to happen. So, rather than hoist orselves on our own petard, why not consider someone who would represent a political master stroke? We have to govern the country before we can change the country.We can't do it with Obamarx in the White House. My philosophy here is sort of an "any port in a storm" kind of thing and, God knows, this is one hell of a storm.
Flayer| 5.17.12 @ 9:59PM
I'd rather see her at the top of the ticket with Mitt as HER vp. But a girl can dream...
BodieInSD| 5.17.12 @ 6:25PM
Absolutely!
Endorsing the worst President in 32 years ( if not since Wilson), DISQUALIFIES you from higher office!
fmm| 5.17.12 @ 11:10AM
Powell was great as a military leader but is totally worthless in politics, his stint as Secretary of State being unremarkable. In my opinion, one of the reasons that highly successful military men are not even fair politicians is that the military is a highly structured organization based on in the box thinking while politics is unstructured with many unforseen pitfalls and pressures. Military professionals are not prepared to make this adjustment.
KennesawJack| 5.17.12 @ 11:21AM
fmm, maybe you're not old enough to remember, but a guy named Eisenhower did a pretty fair job, as did a fellow named Washington. I get your point but I disagree with the "in the box" thinking charge. The truly great military leaders were those who always thought outside the box. Think of Lee at Chancellorsville, Washington at Trenton, Eisenhower at Normandy. The list goes on and on. Again, I am arguing this from a purely political perspective. Nothing more. L'audace, l'audace, toujour l'audace!
randyinrocklin| 5.17.12 @ 1:53PM
another RINO.
KennesawJack| 5.17.12 @ 2:39PM
If it takes putting another RINO on the ticket to get rid of Obamarx, what's the problem with that. The only way we can begin to right this ship is to get rid of the Marxist Muslim in Chief.
bill| 5.17.12 @ 10:08AM
Scott Walker is the real deal and has been baptized by fire. Walker is a fighter and a winner. His nearly two years as governor of Wisconsin are the equivalent of four to six years years. There is every indication he will prevail in the recall folly. Talk about "energizing"!
randyinrocklin| 5.17.12 @ 1:54PM
I want Scott Walker for 2016. He would be a formidable candidate and he has CAJONES.
darcy| 5.17.12 @ 2:59PM
I have thought the same myself; but who on earth could continue the Wisconsin recovery without him? And Wisconsin serves as a test case, a battleground, where the right and the commie unions (and their puppet-masters) are both staking claim to their respective potential victories as being harbingers for the future of the country.
In truth, we need a couple dozen Scott Walkers.
bill| 5.17.12 @ 11:30PM
This is the best part......the Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin is Rebeccal Kleefisch, a highly qualified successor to Walker. She is also a winner and will keep Wisconsin on track while Walker provides a role model for governors in every state and fully complements President Romney. Walker is the sizzle and the steak and provides the electricity and energy.
Anommynous| 5.17.12 @ 10:13AM
Luis Fortuño would be a compelling pick, and Puerto Rico also has a referendum on statehood in November. He's probably the guy I like the most from your list.
Anthony| 5.17.12 @ 10:27AM
Well Quin, you see, getting out of D.C. has done you a world of good.
Had you stayed, you might have prefaced your article with a bullshit Steve Schmidt D.C. insider like comment about properly "vetting" candidates, a la Gov. Palin.
But you didn't, bully for you!!
But while you play your game of political musical chairs, Gov. Palin continues to out shine them all as a true movement conservative leader.
John Lathrop| 5.17.12 @ 10:41AM
J. C. Watts - for veep. (Why is his name never brought up? Is there some unspoken issue?)
Bo Darville| 5.17.12 @ 10:54AM
I love it!
LE Powers| 5.17.12 @ 12:53PM
Here! Here!
(as opposed to "present")
Flayer| 5.17.12 @ 10:01PM
tee hee!
Albert Constantine Jr.| 5.17.12 @ 8:32PM
He did back Newt, though. I'm not sure if the Romney people hold a grudge.
RedRyder-two-zero| 5.17.12 @ 10:43AM
I suggest Steve Forbes, for the elder statesman (he ought to have been president in 2000), and second Alan West for the youngster.
Governor Scott Walker, if he wins the recall election, is the man who could take over most easily; and, he has demonstrated the courage and executive ability required to lead the country.
Bo Darville| 5.17.12 @ 10:48AM
I can't shake the feeling that Romney is going to overthink it and think he needs to take a minority or a woman to off-set Obama and that makes me think he'll take Rubio. I also think he might try to balance his northerness with McDonnell or Burr from North Carolina.
richard ryan| 5.17.12 @ 10:50AM
Rand Paul, Rubio, Martinez are my favorites. Paul because RP followers need to get back into the game. Rubio-solid conservative with a story, good looks might help with women voters. Martinez because she is plain spoken and has courgage.
David Petreus? because we are likely to see some big problems with Iran/Pakistan/ etc./possible terrorist activity in 2012. Petreus would bring on security mom vote. Plus he's a thinker and a leader.
MAC1000| 5.17.12 @ 10:53AM
I've been a John Kasich fan for years.
Cynicon Implant| 5.17.12 @ 11:00AM
The pick must be a black person. I submit that the reason that Obama was elected he got about 10% of the white vote who thought "I'm going to show everybody that I'm not a racist." Let that 10% vote for the Repub ticket and the election is won. Simple as that.
KennesawJack| 5.17.12 @ 12:10PM
Yea, but this time they won't vote for Obamarx to show everybody their not an idiot.
KennesawJack| 5.17.12 @ 12:13PM
Lousy grammar. "THEY'RE not an idiot".
Sparky| 5.17.12 @ 11:13AM
My out of the box pick: Dennis Miller. It'd be a gas, baby!
Marco| 5.17.12 @ 11:14AM
Rep. Jack Kingston (R-GA). Pros: Very solidly conservative, level-headed, telegenic, effective legislator, and he can firm up Southerners who are still squishy about Romney being a Mormon. Cons: Very little national exposure, seems to be happy right where he is.
Dave Williams| 5.17.12 @ 11:26AM
The Great One, Mark Levin.
A Grin without a Cat| 5.17.12 @ 11:34AM
John Bolton
Bill| 5.17.12 @ 11:40AM
I'll bet on Cathy Rodgers, giving the geographical politics in the west coast, with a competetive senate and gubernatorial race in WA state.
Cpm| 5.17.12 @ 11:51AM
What woman would dare to put her hat in the ring? She would be given the Palin treatment , not just by the democrats, but by the same Republican bigwheels that helped sully her and hang her out to dry.
Occam's Tool| 5.17.12 @ 12:05PM
John "Ten Ton Balls" Bolton for VEEP. He endorsed Romney early, and will be SecState if not Veep.
KennesawJack| 5.17.12 @ 12:11PM
Occam, He would be wasted as VP. NEEDS to be Secretary of State.
Mike Hawk| 5.17.12 @ 3:33PM
Bolton for Sec of State.
Oldefarte| 5.18.12 @ 4:17PM
Ditto that!
John Woolley| 5.17.12 @ 12:15PM
Luis Fortuño would help a lot, not just among Puerto Rican voters, but among all Spanish speakers. He's a genuine economic conservative -- and wouldn't it be fantastic to hear a Republican nominee addressing nationwide audiences in natively fluent Spanish?
Mike Hawk| 5.17.12 @ 3:32PM
PR is a US territory but more like a foreign country. They speak PR, not Spanish. No Veeps from from outside the US.
darcy| 5.18.12 @ 3:12AM
No. It would not at all be just wonderful for the Republican nominee to address the country in Spanish. NO. NO. NO.
Indian Conservative| 5.20.12 @ 7:11AM
Just as fantastic as it would be to hear a Republilcan nominee address nationwide audiences in Hindi, Urdu, Chinese, Korean....
Maybe a nominee who has a few drops of Catholic blood, a pint of Islamic, a dash of Hindu....
Can we stop with the pandering please? And drive the message about character, not the color...
Joe D.| 5.17.12 @ 12:17PM
Quinn come on. You are putting Judges and others with no real experinece of governing and bills accomplishments. You pick a governor from the great state of Puerto Rico. Oh right they do not want to be a state. What is his experience of the US? What negatives with the language issues, etc.
I think, with these picks, you need to oppologise to Mrs. Palin. Without her, McCain loses by 10 points.
TXYooper| 5.17.12 @ 12:21PM
I too like former Oklahoma Congressman J.C. Watts. Reliably conservative and well positioned to attack Obama-Biden on energy issues while Romney focuses on the economy.
Conserdude| 5.17.12 @ 12:24PM
Quin, I luv ya, man. But this is getting into analytical absurdities. A four-term no-name congresswoman from Washington State? Judge Janice Rogers Brown? C'mon. The most important measure of a VP choice is whether that person can assume the presidency on day two. As much as adore Gov. Sarah Palin, she failed this test, as does most of your list, including Sen. Marco Rubio, who looks 28 and has a Cuban heritage, not a Mexican or Puerto Rican heritage.
I wouldn't dismiss Jeb Bush. His last name is a problem, to be sure, but he has every other asset in the book: geopraphy, bi-lingual, Mexican wife, articulate, huge fundraising network, excites every type of conservative, and looks and sounds much differently than his Texan older brother. Oh, and Jeb could handle the presidency at any moment should it be necessary.
darcy| 5.18.12 @ 3:15AM
The last thing this country needs, the very last thing -- last, except for another four years of hell from the current occupier of the WH -- is more Bushes. Absolutely, positively not, not now, not EVER.
Sharon| 5.17.12 @ 12:29PM
Allen West!! He would energize the base and would say what needs to be said about Obama's failures. We need someone who isn't scared to speak the truth. Also West would be a real asset on foreign policy/military.
Jindal is probably my second choice.
Mike Hawk| 5.17.12 @ 3:31PM
Just remember, VP is the end of your career more than likely.
Deep South| 5.17.12 @ 1:10PM
Haley Barbour?
garyinfh| 5.20.12 @ 9:19PM
Great choice: although he's now seen as a thoroughly establishment figure (due to his lobbying firm, no doubt, and that's his biggest weakness as a candidate), he's a Reaganite from way back, having served as RR's political director during the 2nd term. He should be strong with social conservatives, although he's not identified with them in the same way as Santorum is. Plus, he has extensive executive experience in both the public and private sectors, and is, if anything, overqualified to be president on day 2 of a Romney administration. Finally, he knows Washington -- the city, the culture, the important people -- as well as anyone, and can be immeasurably useful in navigating the ways of Congress for Romney. I hope Haley is on Quin's short list of serious potential VP candidates; if not, he should be.
Dr K| 5.17.12 @ 1:10PM
I'm surprised that little or no mention is being made of a rather obvious VP candidate (whether in the blogs generally or on Intrade), namely, Senator Kyl of Arizona. He would certainly be a popular choice among mountain-state voters and contribute his own considerable gravitas to Romney's ready-on-first-day narrative.
DRA2010| 5.18.12 @ 1:59PM
EVERYBODY seems to have forgotten - this is the BOTTOM half of a long list of people! The folks he thinks are the best choices are going to be in another article!!
Quin| 5.18.12 @ 4:34PM
Thank you very much for noticing! I thought I had made it clear, but..... from the other comments, one would think I had just listed my absolute favorites. But you are right: The ten best names are still to come.
Stewed_tomatoes| 5.17.12 @ 1:35PM
So long as it's not a Tea Party senator. We need all the help we can muster in that well of despair.
randyinrocklin| 5.17.12 @ 1:47PM
nice RINO list.
Bill| 5.17.12 @ 1:52PM
Missing!!!!!!!!!!!
Bob McDonald of VA, Kelly Ayotte of NH, Pat Toomey of PA.
Mike Hawk| 5.17.12 @ 3:29PM
Sen. Toomey isn't interested and we need him in the Senate from here in PA. No Thanks.
Sparky| 5.17.12 @ 2:48PM
Charles Krauthammer. Can you imagine him taking Joe Biden apart in a debate?
Sparky| 5.17.12 @ 2:49PM
oh, wait, he was born in Canada...
Oldefarte| 5.18.12 @ 4:18PM
So what, we now have a POTUS that was BORN IN KENYA!!!!
Scorpio51| 5.17.12 @ 2:54PM
The one person on your list Mr. Hillyer is John Ashcroft. I'm from Missouri, and he was such a great Governor for many years. I don't see this happening, though.
Matt Blunt, eh, not real enthused about him and can't wait to get rid of Roy Blunt.
Cathy McMorris Rodgers, probably too soon. Luis Fortuno, maybe.
Allen West, great, great individual and would certainly excite the base. But I would hate to see him in the VP position. He is so worthy as Sec. of State or Sec. of Defense. Another great position for him, Speaker of the House. Boehner needs to go! Also, VP choice shouldn't overshadow the President. West is too dynamic for Romney.
Bottom line, we all know that Rob Portman will probably be the pick because the "establishment" wants it. Two bland candidates.
darcy| 5.17.12 @ 3:05PM
Trey Gowdy. Cajones and principles on steroids -- will balance out Romney's jello-ness.
Trey Gowdy, representative from SC's 4th Congressional District, would make a GREAT president, if the need arose. That is, after all, the main consideration when selecting a VP running mate.
JR| 5.17.12 @ 3:15PM
The Rev. J.C. Watts would make an excellent choice--well spoken, a man of character, conservative, humble, and likeable.
William R| 5.17.12 @ 3:36PM
Sorry Quin but Janice Rodgers Brown is a hack
http://archive.mises.org/10028.....ty-rights/
David| 5.17.12 @ 4:19PM
I like J.C.Watts, but he too often butchers the English language. He makes black language gaffs like ax for ask. He is a good man.
What has Watts done since leaving office.....what.....6 or so years ago?
Quin, I look forward to your pros and cons on Santorum in one of your next columns.
I have never seen the governor of VA before, but he was very impressive on the talk shows weekend before last.
David| 5.17.12 @ 4:22PM
No to Jeb Bush. He supports amnesty, supported Romney the RINO in the primary, and has talked down to true conservatives and tea party types at various times over the years.
9thID| 5.17.12 @ 4:32PM
I see no Sarah Palin in waiting types on Quin's list, and not even Palin could save a RINO like Johnny McSame. Between a "to the Left of McCain" RINO like Mitt RomneyCare and Quin's "Veep" list, the GOP Establishment had better hope they can impeach Comrade Barry before November. ..
9thID| 5.17.12 @ 4:35PM
Who knows, maybe something will come of Brietbarts big headline up on Drudge Report this afternoon and the h/t made to it by El Rushbo. We can only hope so...
The Obama Timeline | 5.17.12 @ 7:41PM
Mitt Romney & Kim Kardashian!
Why let Obama grab "the stupid vote" uncontested?
Indian Conservative| 5.20.12 @ 7:14AM
Ha ha....nice one. ;-)
cicero| 5.17.12 @ 7:56PM
Quinn, I have to ask you how you came up with Engler for the list. For some reason, everyone thinks he saved the State of Michigan by lowering the taxes. All that happened was that the tax bill got shifted around. The Headley Amendment that put a cap on the annual rise in the property tax was passed by way of referrendum, and the transfer of the school taxes from the local districts to the State was the result of joke that the Dems tried to play on him, that he signed into law. His judicial appointments were ludicrous, and all of the mental hospitals were closed, with the poor devils now wharehoused in the prison system. (That astt is not working so well, as that system is out of money. So they just turn them loose into the community where they stay until picked up again, and locked up in a county jail.) But he did make a lot of friends in high places. For a guy that never held a job in the private sector, he ended up with a 7 figure salary as head of the National Chamber of Commerce.
The Veep should be someone with Washington experience who can help forward the President's agenda, and protect his back. As much as a nutball as Biden is, he is serviong his president well as a vice president. He sends up the trial baloons, takes the heat, and distracts everyones' attention when the Wizard cranks up his magic machine.
John Benham| 5.17.12 @ 9:58PM
Rubio is not elligible as his parents were Cuban citizens at the time of his birth. Natural Born is not Native Born. Article2,section1, clause5 of the US Constitution specifies this. Does not call for a Citizen, that's the requirement for a Senator.
9thID| 5.18.12 @ 9:50AM
In regards to Jindal, Rubio, and the story over at Breitbart: Whether Comrade Barry was born in Hawaii or not, he is still not what the Constitution calls a "natural born citizen", and is therefore ineligible. Of all elected positions in the Republic, this unique qualification applies **ONLY** to POTUS and VP. Article II Section 1 relates the requirements for POTUS and the 12th Amendment for VP. By definition, and precedent, NBC requires both parents be U.S. citizens and born on U.S. soil. By Barry's own admission his father was of British/Kenyan citizenship.
http://www.art2superpac.com/issues.html
NeilBJ| 5.18.12 @ 7:55PM
@ 9thID
I thought conservatives were supposed to be constitutionalists. Every time I see Rubio's name and less frequently Jindal's name mentioned for the VP slot, I begin to wonder.
@John Benham
The Constitution does not define natural born citizen, and that is the problem. Chief Justice Waite in Minor v. Happersett acknowledged this fact when he construed Article II, Section 1, Clause 5:
"The Constitution does not, in words, say who shall be natural-born citizens. Resort must be had elsewhere to ascertain that. At common-law, with the nomenclature of which the framers of the Constitution were familiar, it was never doubted that all children born in a country of parents who were its citizens became themselves, upon their birth, citizens also. These were natives, or natural-born citizens, as distinguished from aliens or foreigners."
RCV| 5.19.12 @ 1:04PM
Why don't you be honest and quote the rest of the opinion where Justice Waite goes on to note that more modern commentators have other views, and that the Court is not deciding the issue in Minor. His comment was therefore pure dictum. The term is now statutorily defnined to confirm that it includes all persons who acquired citizenship by virtue of birth in the United States, as opposed to naturalized citizens. Rubio, like Obama and Jindal, are all eligible for the presidency.
Oldefarte| 5.19.12 @ 1:51PM
What about the current POTUS who stated that he was born in Kenya?????????
RCV| 5.19.12 @ 6:12PM
He stated in his book where he was born, Oldfarte. The idiots who wrote the promotional flyer for their own agency stated what you quote. Even Andrew Breitbart didn't believe the birther idiocy, but then, he was clearly a smarter guy than you.
Michael Burke| 5.17.12 @ 10:07PM
Love many of your choices, but my fave is General Michael Hayden.
Michael Burke| 5.17.12 @ 10:14PM
Also, I really like Rep. Marsha Blackburn.
Ron| 5.17.12 @ 10:54PM
No VP sweepstakes would be complete without including Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels. He turned down a run for the White House last year, but may consider the VP slot. His term as governor ends in 2013. He's got national name recognition, strong fiscal conservative credentials, business background, head of U.S. Office of Management & Budget under Bush 43.
Brian Richard Allen | 5.18.12 @ 8:21AM
And then there is the really important choice of v-p running mare: Zero's!
My money's on his before-the-end-of-July October Surprise being the dumping of Plugs Biden for the dumbest treasonous, recidivist co-serial rapist to ever poop between two shoes.
The loathsome and fearsome and most-dangerously-dullard Missus Cli'ton, that is.
DannyBoy| 5.18.12 @ 9:27AM
My retiring governor, from the great state of Vice Presidents - Mitch Daniels.
Pro: Wicked smart, great accomplishments in IN; wouldn't overshadow MR. Con: Ties to Bush; wife says no
FeFe| 5.18.12 @ 12:12PM
1. Dave Heineman
2. Jim Inhofe
3. Darrell Issa
4. Mike Mullen
5. Rick Santorum
Larry Galia| 5.18.12 @ 5:53PM
Have you given a thought to Congressmant Tom McClintock of California. He has a brilliant understanding of our Constitution and is beyond articulate.
Oldbull| 5.18.12 @ 8:09PM
"... not quite yet qualified for the job."
After Barak Obama, I'm amazed anyone on the R side would think this was some kind of disqualification.
Robert Faust| 5.19.12 @ 3:21AM
How about Gov. Bobby Jindal. What he has done to reverse Louisiana's budget mess is truly amazing. He's smart, honest and charismatic.
Oldefarte| 5.19.12 @ 11:32AM
'.....Times 24|7 The Skinny WashingtonTimes.com
Wright says Obama considered himself Muslim BlogsFox News by: Fox NewsFriday, May 18, 2012
"When I asked the Rev. Wright about this whole question of Islam and Christianity, he said, well, you know, Barack Obama was steeped in Islam," author Ed Klein said. Photo Credit:AP Fox News host Sean Hannity: Here is author Ed Klein. We will do what the mainstream media will not do, we will play the tapes of his recent interview with the Reverend Jeremiah Wright. ...
KLEIN: Do you think he ever thought of himself as Muslim?
WRIGHT: Yes. ...
HANNITY: What do you think of that?
KLEIN: Well, I was very interested in another part of that, as well, which is, when I asked the Reverend Wright about this whole question of Islam and Christianity, he said, "Well, you know, Barack Obama was steeped in Islam. He knew a lot about Islam from his childhood. But he knew very little about Christianity. And I made it easy for him to feel not guilty about learning about Christianity without turning his back on his Islamic friends."...........'
RCV| 5.19.12 @ 1:06PM
And of course you conservatives place great faith in Reverend Wright's judgment.
Oldefarte| 5.19.12 @ 1:49PM
Sadly not like you liberals do in his protege's judgment!!!!!!
J.J. Sefton| 5.20.12 @ 5:49AM
How about Liz Cheney? Intelligent, very good off-the-cuff (especially in going after the media), seems to be more of a conservative than the Bushies.
And she's the daughter of Darth, for Heaven's sakes!
Sanjay | 5.21.12 @ 5:11PM
Both Romney and Obama are puppets of blood sucking Jewish parasites.
We havent had a free president since JFK. Blood sucking Jew killed JFK.
The Jew controls banking system, foreign policy, IRS, FBI, CIA and Whitey is the useful idiot who embraces open borders and plunder by the Jewish blood sucking leech.
Whitey gets poor and less free every day. Whitey is aging, shrinking, dying every day. And whitey wonders why?
Whitey gets slaughtered in Iraq and Afghanistan. Blood sucking neocon Jew dances and profits.
Christian Zionists, Evangelicals are gullible zombies, useful idiots for Jewish parasite.