CNN Political Ticker
1409 days ago

Former Romney backer warns McCain not to pick him for VP

Conservative activists are speaking out against a Romney spot on the GOP ticket.
Conservative activists are speaking out against a Romney spot on the GOP ticket.

(CNN) – Conservative leader Paul Weyrich – who endorsed Mitt Romney’s presidential bid – has signed on to an open letter from more than two dozen movement activists to John McCain warning him not to select the former Massachusetts governor as his VP pick if he expects their support.

"If Governor Romney is on your ticket, many social conservative voters will consider their values repudiated by the Republican Party and either stay away from the polls this November or only vote down the ticket,” they write in a message posted online by a political action committee called “Government is Not God.”

The letter – topped by the headline “NO Mitt” - will run as a print ad in cities visited by McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee, beginning with his Arizona stop this weekend.

The group includes supporters of Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee like activists Gary Glenn and Janet Folger, along with conservatives who have long criticized Romney for his past stands on issues like abortion.

Weyrich endorsed Huckabee after Romney left the race. The activist’s opposition to the former governor marks a complete reversal from his position as recently as last month, when he told the National Journal that McCain was unlikely to select Romney as his running mate – but that he should.

"If he selects somebody bad from our point of view, it's going to be very difficult," he told the magazine. "It will reinforce prejudice against him. If he selects somebody pretty good, it'll be moderately helpful.... It would help if he selected Mitt Romney, but he won't."


Filed under: John McCain • Mitt Romney
soundoff (106 Responses)
  1. Brendan D, Niles, IL

    >>The activist’s opposition to the former governor marks a complete reversal from his position as recently as last month, when he told the National Journal that McCain was unlikely to select Romney as his running mate – but that he should.<<

    So he's a flip-flopper? Yeesh.

    April 4, 2008 11:43 am at 11:43 am |
  2. Paul

    I hope McCain does select Romney. Romney is a hard-core conservative who will polorize the McCain ticket. I don't believe McCain is dumb enough to do that. Romney would shrink McCain's independent support.

    April 4, 2008 11:46 am at 11:46 am |
  3. Grif

    I didn't know Mitt Romney was a Woman.... John needs a Female as his VP, when he runs in November... You see! He is determined to win.... As this is, His Year...

    April 4, 2008 11:47 am at 11:47 am |
  4. Franky

    Poor Senator McCain, it looks like the conservatives are not stepping down. You know, this I can tell you for a fact...,,,Senator McCain IS NOT, I repeat, is not going to change, I mean, if my dad doesn't change, what makes you think Senator McCain will???

    And do you know what I think is the ironic part??? I think he has no choice but to give it a try. I mean, I do think Senator McCain HAS to initiate the communication, because if he doesn't, then who?? At least is starting now than later...

    April 4, 2008 11:48 am at 11:48 am |
  5. Democrats Are What's Left

    How embarrasing. *giggles*

    April 4, 2008 11:49 am at 11:49 am |
  6. Dan in CO

    ""If he selects somebody bad from our point of view, it's going to be very difficult,""

    How can he possibly avoid that if your "point of view" changes in a month's time?

    Frauds.

    April 4, 2008 11:51 am at 11:51 am |
  7. TJS

    I am with them. I want to sign on the petition also. NO Mitt! McCain is bad enough about changing his mind on abortion & amnesty. Don't need two that change their beliefs to get a vote then change it again.

    April 4, 2008 11:52 am at 11:52 am |
  8. Bill Brown Dallas, TX

    If McCain picks flip-flopper Romney, this is one conservative who will vote for Obama.

    April 4, 2008 11:53 am at 11:53 am |
  9. Charlotte

    Romney would not be a good choice for McCain. He needs to take his time and look at the big picture. His choice may well determine if he wins this election. McCain/ anybody beats Obama, Hillary is another story.

    April 4, 2008 11:54 am at 11:54 am |
  10. george

    He was for Romney before he was against Romney. What's wrong with that?

    April 4, 2008 11:56 am at 11:56 am |
  11. Doug R.

    McCain and Romney do not like each other. It was evident in during the campaign before Romney stepped aside.

    April 4, 2008 11:56 am at 11:56 am |
  12. FELISA

    IF mccaine picks someone he obviously despises, than it is a true look at his lack of character. Just because he has a military background, does not make him honest. Romney is a slick character that reminds me of Bill and Hillary Clinton. I don't trust the man.

    April 4, 2008 12:03 pm at 12:03 pm |
  13. FELISA

    IF mccaine picks someone he obviously despises, than it is a true look at his lack of character. Just because he has a military background, does not make him honest. Romney is a slick character that reminds me of Bill and Hillary Clinton. I don't trust the man.

    April 4, 2008 12:03 pm at 12:03 pm |
  14. Dan

    The Huckabee bigot crew is at it again. Their hatred of Mitt Romney apparently has no boundaries. Go ahead and distort his record all you want. People are smarter than you think. I, for one, have really had enough of Huckabee's self-righteous and utterly hollow character!

    April 4, 2008 12:07 pm at 12:07 pm |
  15. JP2Feminist

    I think Michael Steele would be a great choice for McCain's VP!

    April 4, 2008 12:09 pm at 12:09 pm |
  16. An American in Canada

    I would warn Mitt Romney not even to consider being McCain's running mate, he is not going to win.

    I would advise Mitt Romney to wait until 2012 and run for the republican nominee again and this time you will surly win...

    April 4, 2008 12:10 pm at 12:10 pm |
  17. Chuck in Oregon

    November politics at its birth, if you want my vote you will not do this or do that, you will do as I ask or demand. Wow.... here we go, weeeeee!

    April 4, 2008 12:13 pm at 12:13 pm |
  18. Ric

    It has to be someone the conservatives approve of. Even then it doesnt matter much. Mc Cain appeals to most Dems and Independents when faced with Obama.

    April 4, 2008 12:13 pm at 12:13 pm |
  19. Andrew

    Why isn't anyone talking about a Mcain/Powell ticket. That would crush the Dems, it would be unstoppable. Especially considering both of the Dems have absolutely nowhere near the level of experience needed to lead the free world. They are both jokers. Mcain/Collin Powell for the WhiteHouse in 08'.

    April 4, 2008 12:14 pm at 12:14 pm |
  20. Victor

    I do not like the car salesman...Mitt...but he does have lots of cash...
    looks like McCain could use a coin or two..grin

    April 4, 2008 12:15 pm at 12:15 pm |
  21. Jay Shah

    all you fiscal conservatives and moderate social conservatives, you should reallly think about supporting Obama. He is a very religious and moral man that does the right thing. He is a dying breed among politicians. think about friends

    April 4, 2008 12:19 pm at 12:19 pm |
  22. Howard Hewlett Des Moines IA

    I just love watching the conservatives die a little each day knowing that there time is up. You guys had the controls and you flew the plane straight into the mountain. Enjoy politics from the sidelines for the next few years!

    April 4, 2008 12:24 pm at 12:24 pm |
  23. Typical Voter

    If Obama gets the nomination I'm voting for McCain. But if McCain has Romney as his VP then I'm writing in Hillary. I originally was going to vote for Edwards, but was sort of interested in Thompson. We have to unite the party.

    April 4, 2008 12:29 pm at 12:29 pm |
  24. Tara K

    What kind of politician would want to run as VP on the Republican ticket this season?
    If you're really that energized by the Democratic prospect, you're probably nearly as turned off by your running mate.

    April 4, 2008 12:34 pm at 12:34 pm |
  25. Jaik , chicago, IL

    This is not news, it is an advertisement for a radical fundamentalist cause. Why is CNN elevating their views and spreading their nonsense?

    April 4, 2008 12:38 pm at 12:38 pm |
  26. Chuck, TN

    Romney would be the one person who can guarantee a Democratic win. The Independents hate Romney and the Social Conservatives don't trust him. The only ones who back Romney are the Fiscal Conservatives.

    April 4, 2008 12:39 pm at 12:39 pm |
  27. P

    to TJS: if you don't want to vote for someone who changes their beliefs to get a vote than changes them again, who are you going to vote for????????

    April 4, 2008 12:44 pm at 12:44 pm |
  28. Obama Supporter

    The guestion is, can he admit he was for Romney before he was against him, or will he pull an HRC and deny ever supporting Romney? ;)

    April 4, 2008 12:45 pm at 12:45 pm |
  29. Allison R.

    When will social conservatives realize the world is moving on without them?

    April 4, 2008 12:56 pm at 12:56 pm |
  30. Anabelle Lee

    It'll be Charlie Crist. Governor of Florida.

    April 4, 2008 12:56 pm at 12:56 pm |
  31. William from AZ

    Don't worry, the only way McCain would ever win this November, is if he changes his name to Barack Obama.

    April 4, 2008 01:05 pm at 1:05 pm |
  32. Brian

    Mitt should be VP of the Goo Ol'boy Party..... oh wait he dosn;t fit the mold of White male protestant..... the only nominations that the GOP can give in their history

    April 4, 2008 01:06 pm at 1:06 pm |
  33. Mike

    I highly doubt Romney ever made it on to McCains list anyway. If McCain looks for a conservative for his ticket he is going to look for a "Reagan Conservative" like Haley Babour who appeals to both sides and not just the right. Going all the way to the right is just as bad as going all the way to left, either way you will eventually fall off.

    April 4, 2008 01:08 pm at 1:08 pm |
  34. Daniel

    Mormons should never be able to run for any type of office. They're brainwashed.

    April 4, 2008 01:08 pm at 1:08 pm |
  35. Linda of Atlanta

    The Republican Party will loose this election because it is so controlled by a few people with very narrow views, but lots of money. They personify arrogance and entitlement. I will be happy to see their era of dominance and division ushered out of the White House and hopefully out of Congress.

    April 4, 2008 01:08 pm at 1:08 pm |
  36. Saad

    I think McCain and Romney will make a good couple. Far better, above and beyond the Bush and Cheney ticket.

    April 4, 2008 01:08 pm at 1:08 pm |
  37. mike

    This ad campaign is being supported by all Huckbee supporters and is a continuation of the Anti-Romney/Mormon, Huckabee fight. I believe McCain will see through religious intolerance and pick the best person to be his VP. I believe this person will be Mitt Romney

    April 4, 2008 01:09 pm at 1:09 pm |
  38. Daniel

    He does have magic underwear, and he comes from the one true chruch. The one true church with less then 1% of Americans.

    Hello... a gay man has more of a chance then a Mormon.

    April 4, 2008 01:09 pm at 1:09 pm |
  39. Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA

    These "No Mittsters" should stop this petulant nonsense immediately lest they give any more support to their "takes-a-village" opponents, currently in the undemocratic (but very Democratic) process of destroying themselves.

    April 4, 2008 01:11 pm at 1:11 pm |
  40. Theo

    I think it's more important where they stand now, and their recent track record, rather than how they were 15 years ago. Reagan was originally a Democrat. Dennis Miller and Evan Sayet were both staunch Liberals who've almost completely changed their stance after seeing the Socialist agenda of modern Liberals following 9/11.

    I think it would be refreshing to have Mitt at VP. It would be good to have an honest, forthright, moral, and upstanding person as the right-hand adviser to the POTUS. Huckabee's religious bigotry (against all Mormons) is alarming, and he had a much weaker showing at the polls (he only barely beat Romney despite staying in the race months longer).

    April 4, 2008 01:11 pm at 1:11 pm |
  41. Donald, SC

    “Government is Not God.”

    That is exactly what Rev. Wright said in his unedited sermon. So now are these folks also anti-Americans? Or does the title only apply to retired ex-marines who fought for their country, but describes her behavior as it is?

    April 4, 2008 01:12 pm at 1:12 pm |
  42. Hamilton

    And they couldn't just send him an e-mail or give him a phone call? Such attention mongers those Republicans

    April 4, 2008 01:13 pm at 1:13 pm |
  43. Shannon Shiflett

    I think it's high time the Republican Party kicked these right-wing neo-conservatives out of their party. Instead they count on these fake religious leaders and their human cattle congregations to vote them into office, and then they are obligated to make laws based on their ideological irrationality, and it's not good for the American people, and it is not the will of the American people. Let these people and their imaginary friend Jesus form their own 3rd party and see how far they get. Nowhere, God willing.

    April 4, 2008 01:15 pm at 1:15 pm |
  44. David

    Okay, just so I understand correctly, if McCain were to pick Romney as his running mate right wing conservatives would either not vote at all or vote Democrat? That's beyond laughable. It is the stupidest argument I've ever heard.

    Obama is staunchly pro-abortion rights. He voted no on the proposition to ban partial birth abortion. How does voting for him help the right wing cause? Hillary Clinton is pro-gay rights. She wants to repeal "don't ask don't tell" so gays can serve openly in the military. She also supports civil unions so gays can obtain legal rights enjoyed by straight married couples. How does voting for Hillary help the right wing cause?

    So go ahead you ultra conservatives. Vote for Obama or Clinton and cut your nose off despite your face. What a bunch of morons.

    April 4, 2008 01:15 pm at 1:15 pm |
  45. j williamson

    Ronald Reagan gave amnesty to millions of illegals in the mid-1980's. This caused millions more to swarm here to wait for the "next one." That wasn't so conservative, though Reagan has been made something of a secular saint by the right-wing of the Republican party. Go figure.

    April 4, 2008 01:17 pm at 1:17 pm |
  46. Independent In Texas

    I think McCain should talk Clinton into switching parties and running as VP. She has a better chance of wooing conservatives than he does.

    McCain/Clinton '08!

    April 4, 2008 01:22 pm at 1:22 pm |
  47. Dave

    First, in spite of a reversal on his position on abortion, Romney won the values summit in the summer.

    Second, Romney is considered by most republicans to be more conservative than McCain. McCain needs to win over the conservative base or he will lose the election.

    Third, McCain is strong on defense issues and terrible on economic issues. American is in financial crisis, and Romney has expertise in this area.

    I don't know what McCain will do, but he is crazy if he does not have Romney as his VP.

    April 4, 2008 01:22 pm at 1:22 pm |
  48. Charlotte

    McCain needs to think about this decision. This VP could finish out his term. I, for one, am very concerned who would replace McCain in the event of his demise. I will write in Hillary if Obama is the nominee. McCain will beat Obama and we're stuck for 4 more years.

    April 4, 2008 01:23 pm at 1:23 pm |
  49. After further review,Texas

    Cindy runs the show,always has,always will.

    April 4, 2008 01:28 pm at 1:28 pm |
  50. Franky

    By the way, how do you know if you're a conservative??? I mean, it just happens??? But on the other hand, I guess you just wake up one day and say, "I'm a conservative today"! LOL!!! The only conservative person that I know for a fact is my sister, that's it. And she's a Republican for crying out loud, LOL!!! Hmmm, come to think about it, I guess I'm also one..........but I don't feel like one, LOL!!! Yep, politics are weird I tell you...

    April 4, 2008 01:29 pm at 1:29 pm |
  51. Conservative4Life

    Go flat-earthers!!!

    ... go away that is

    April 4, 2008 01:30 pm at 1:30 pm |
  52. MK in Arizona

    I think Romney would absolutely be the best VP for McCain. This group of sore loser Huckabee supporters that are running this ad are showing the lack of character that Huckabee and his clan showed during the primary. I went to voice my opinion on the petition in favor of Romney and they did not post my comment. on the website and according to other commentors their views were also eliminated from the petition. How sad that people can't worry about supporting who they want to but instead try to sling mud at those they want to discredit. How sad.
    McCain/Romney in 2008!

    April 4, 2008 01:32 pm at 1:32 pm |
  53. jennifer

    If Mccain picks romney I will go OBAMA

    April 4, 2008 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  54. Farren Ballanst

    ***typical voter**

    If you truly are typical, God help us. "If up is not available, I pick down. If I can't have left, I'll take right."

    Bottom line: It doesn't matter who McThuseleh picks–if he picks a moderate quasi-Republican like Lieberman, the right will abandon him; if he picks a right-winger like Huckleberry, the independents will walk away.

    Anyway, why would anyone vote for a Keating Fiver whose wife stole drugs from her own charity?

    April 4, 2008 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  55. kathleen

    To the Poor McCain voters.

    If you don't vote Democrat, you will be poorer. Dirt Poor. McCain
    don't care about you. You are fooling yourself and hurting your family.
    And our Soldiers. You fool!!!! or fools? How many fools do we have
    here???? Idiots?

    Obama 2008

    April 4, 2008 01:37 pm at 1:37 pm |
  56. Farrell, Houston, Tx

    The first mistake was picking John McCain over Mitt Romney who is far more superior intellectually.

    April 4, 2008 01:39 pm at 1:39 pm |
  57. Teddy

    There are some people pushing for selecting Romney. I do not think McCain is excited in the choice. Now, he will have excuse not to select Romney. McCain is more interested in the governers or former governers of Florida, Penn, Minnesota, etc. All those people are very close to him and they are considered to be qualified to be the President, and they will be helpful in the swing states.

    When did liberal become a dirty word? I hope Obama (or Clinton, but she won't) can openly defend liberalism which means progressive. Even though I will possibly pay thousands of dollars more taxes under Obama, but I can vote for him if he can argue clearly why we need liberalism.

    Conservatism was a dirty word 40 years ago.

    It is time to have a true conversation of liberalism and Conservatism.

    April 4, 2008 01:41 pm at 1:41 pm |
  58. Dan, NJ

    Wow, a way to silence the very vocal social conservative minority. That would be great. However, I agree with Anabelle Lee that Crist makes the most sense.

    April 4, 2008 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  59. Cori

    Oh my goodness. They are behaving like Democrats. Suck it up boys. I'm not going to vote for him, wa, wa, wa,wa....

    McCain needs someone to the right of him, but not too far right as to scare off the independents. he needs somebody people would trust as president, because of his age. This is not scary, make the constitution match the bible, Huckabee. He needs somebody not connected to Bush. He needs somebody good on the economy and he needs somebody who can possibly help him with a swing state, like maybe MI. Romney is the guy, so stop whining.

    April 4, 2008 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  60. Amy Jacobson

    Jay Shah, what planet do you live on??? Obama for fiscal conservatives????????

    April 4, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  61. Jayson

    What planet do these goons live on that they would actually think that McCain will listen to them is pretty dumb. This is of course members of the same group of people that predicted McCain would lose in the primaries so he would be out of his mind to listen to them. Of course they probably also think that Huckabee is a good choice even though he is clueless on all the important issues unless someone takes the time to inform him on foreign policy and other importance.

    April 4, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  62. Sean

    I think he should go all out and pick Cheney or Jeb Bush. I mean, why NOT go out with a bang?

    April 4, 2008 01:55 pm at 1:55 pm |
  63. Anonymous

    mitt romney IS president

    April 4, 2008 01:56 pm at 1:56 pm |
  64. Cosmo

    Unite the party? Who gives an F about the party? Why can't McCain just select the guy who thinks will do the best job? And since when does this guy's vote count more than mine? Why are these stupid politicians so polarizing on their own?

    Where's the common sense party? Because it certainly doesn't exist. America, you're a laugh and a half.

    And I'm a white, male, 25 year old Republican who is voting for McCain.

    April 4, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  65. Anita in NC

    Now what does this article really say about the GOP?

    Republicans are no different than the Democrats!

    Swill, swear and swagger but do not expect any sweat.

    April 4, 2008 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  66. judy

    If McCain runs against Obama,I believe he will win no matter who his vice presidential candidate is.

    April 4, 2008 02:10 pm at 2:10 pm |
  67. AJ

    It's time that McCain told the social conservatives (hate filled Bible banging bigots) to go to Hades!! If McCain wants to pick up the votes of independents and cross-over democrats, he does not need a hate monger for VP. The social conservatives will not vote for a democrat but many moderate democrats and most Independents would vote for McCain. Especially if Obama is the nominee. Clinton voters will be crossing over in droves. The so called social conservatives and religious right have ruined the Republican party.

    April 4, 2008 02:12 pm at 2:12 pm |
  68. Mike Kaplan

    You people are all (well, mostly) hilarious.

    First of McCain isn't going to win, no matter who he picks as his running mate. Republicans have made such a complete mess of just about EVERYTHING that they're definitely going down this time (good riddance!) Second of all, these extreme conservative and theocrats who think they can dictate to McCain who should be his running mate need to wake up and face the fact that their moment of power is running out. Less and less of the country identify with the extreme religious right, and their power as kingmakers (which was always overrated) is getting smaller all the time.

    Good riddance to all of you. I hope you enjoy the next 8 years of Democratic administrations almost as much as I have enjoyed 8 years of your side's excuse for leadership- that is, not at all.

    April 4, 2008 02:13 pm at 2:13 pm |
  69. KTX

    That would be an insane choice! We'd have a man that belongs to a church that won't allow black members. But then again, one of the Democrat nominees, is one where any race but black would be afraid to attend!

    I don't think Condi Rice is on the short list, which would be the only person, that might give McCain a chance.

    I'm a Democrat, will become Independent because, I don't agree with much either party stands for anymore.

    McCain, is a very respectable man, who's no longer at the top of his game. While I'm sure, the Super Delagates, can't wait to have a Rooky Senator they can manipulate any way they want. America it seems is going to nominate, a racist, who has gone to Radical lengths to embed himself firmly in one race over another. While this isn't againslt the law, and is a basic American Freedom, I wouldn't vote for someone who affiliated with David Duke, or Jerimiah Wright. Their one and the same. While the Clintons have made huge mistakes, that comes with vast experience. Someone with no experience, will have fewer, mistakes, as is the case with BO. We are just barely starting to learn about him, and some of his Radical Choices, and extreme racial preference are what I call Presidential material. We do know the Clinton's, and they aren't with out flaw, but
    we do know they are BOTH Loyal, Proud, and Proven Americans,
    WE ALL KNOW CAN.....bring this country back from a war torn economy, and restore our respect internationally and have worked their entire lives for ALL THE PEOPLE, not for the supremecy on one race. That is what I call a RESUME FOR THE PRESIDENCY. WAKE UP ALL YOU EDUCATED OBAMA FANN'S.

    April 4, 2008 02:16 pm at 2:16 pm |
  70. John

    Ah now its time for the GOP to implode this is going to be good. Get out your check book all you rich time to pay up.

    April 4, 2008 02:18 pm at 2:18 pm |
  71. kathleen

    No one Republican will do.......They are all crooked Politicians.
    Romney, Mr. Rich guy. Cheney, got rich off the war. McCain, just dumb.
    Lieberman, changed party for trips. Graham, coatail hanger on.......
    Bush..........crook. Republican party going down the tubes.............

    Obama 2008

    April 4, 2008 02:21 pm at 2:21 pm |
  72. Gilbert

    I hope & pray he picks Mike Huckabee, HE is a Man of Faith.
    HE is really the only one.
    Mitt, is a great guy, but not Christian, since Mormons are NOT
    Christian.

    April 4, 2008 02:24 pm at 2:24 pm |
  73. Chris

    This is weird, I'm a Hillary supporter now and a liberal generally, but I always liked Romney. If McCain picks Romney as a VP and they run against Obama, unless Hillary's is Obama's VP which I don't think would happen, I'd be way more likely to vote for McCain/Romney than if it were another VP, and I'd find myself on the fence about who to vote for. I don't know what the opposition to Romney is about. He's not socially conservative enough? If Ann Coulter likes him, how bad can he be? (Note that that last question is directed at the conservatives.)

    April 4, 2008 02:24 pm at 2:24 pm |
  74. Fred

    Mitt who? Mc Cain who? Total loosers same as the amateur from IL!

    GO HILLARY!

    April 4, 2008 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  75. Tim

    The only reason is because he is Mormon. That's typical of right wing radicalist to use discriminatory tactic.

    April 4, 2008 02:25 pm at 2:25 pm |
  76. Mike

    Cool, I think that McCain should pick Mitt, and that way it will be even easier for the Dems to win :)

    April 4, 2008 02:27 pm at 2:27 pm |
  77. Milton, Harrisburg, PA

    I think McCain should get a solid publicly proclaimed atheist (as opposed to the hundreds of closeted politicians who are atheists) on the ticket.

    In case these boneheads haven't realized, we currently have a nice Christian conservative as President now and he is a complete idiot.

    April 4, 2008 02:32 pm at 2:32 pm |
  78. Chris, Bethesda, Maryland

    "If Governor Romney is on your ticket, many social conservative voters will consider their values repudiated by the Republican Party and either stay away from the polls this November or only vote down the ticket."

    Translation; he's a Mormon.

    From a Catholic, socially moderate voter supporting McCain; if you select Mike Huckabee as VP, I will consider my values repudiated by the Republican Party, and I can promise you I will not stay away from the polls. I'll vote for the Democrat even if it's Gravel, Kucinich, or Kermit the Frog.

    Not because Huck's Protestant, not because he's conservative, but because he's a theocratic nutcase. It's enough to have these people in Riyadh and Tehran, I don't want one in Washington.

    April 4, 2008 02:37 pm at 2:37 pm |
  79. Dale

    Romney doesn't need the VP spot. he can just wait to run later. of course, Huckabee and his Bigot Crew are waiting later, too. what has this country come to? we have McCain as the GOP candidate. that's a laugher. Obama and Hillary on the Dem side. that's a side splitter. what a bad election year this is.

    April 4, 2008 02:38 pm at 2:38 pm |
  80. chuck

    Ask "GOD". He seems to be speaking alot to republicans about how great they are, and that they are the chosen people to run the country.
    Just ask Huckabee and Bush.

    April 4, 2008 02:43 pm at 2:43 pm |
  81. KevinD. Boston Ma.

    If these people support Huckabee they are not conservatives.

    Huckabee is a corrupt , tax-and-spend, soft on crime, open borders soft on illegal immigrants, squirrel eating, populist/liberal who is clueless about foreign policy and thinks that dealing with the economy of Arkansas in some way prepares him for dealing with the global economy.

    April 4, 2008 02:44 pm at 2:44 pm |
  82. Anyone but Romney

    Dave:

    Listen to yourself. You sound like a liberal? You want a guy who has "expertise" in the area of the economy as president? What can a president do?

    You want him to go in and tinker with the numbers and micromanage the U.S. economy? That's called regulation, and Republicans used to be against this.

    Of course, Romney's shown himself to be a liberal in disguise...it doesn't surprise me that you are too.

    April 4, 2008 02:50 pm at 2:50 pm |
  83. Uncle Sam

    I trust John McCain's judgment on his choice of running mate. The reason that I support Senator McCain is because he is the true agent of change. I do not have to merely hope for change or even believe in change. Given John's lifelong commitment to placing country over party, often at great sacrifice to himself, I can simply look at his actions to know that he will bring meaningful change to the political process and the country.

    April 4, 2008 02:58 pm at 2:58 pm |
  84. Damian

    I do not think they should have to worry. McCain will never pick Romney. Most Americans would not want him on the ticket and he comes off as a self-serving hypocrite.

    April 4, 2008 03:07 pm at 3:07 pm |
  85. Allyn

    McCain & Bush 08 If Bush has his way... LOL

    April 4, 2008 03:09 pm at 3:09 pm |
  86. David Duke

    Why doesn't McCain pick me for his running mate? We both don't think that Martin Luther King deserved a holiday.

    April 4, 2008 03:13 pm at 3:13 pm |
  87. jeff

    What about Sec. of State Rice? Is she willing?

    April 4, 2008 03:22 pm at 3:22 pm |
  88. norb

    The VP spot is overated. The first George Bush picked Dan Quayle for God's sake! What does that tell you?

    April 4, 2008 03:26 pm at 3:26 pm |
  89. Daniel, WA

    Mitt Romeny is Presidential. I am sure he will have chance to be our president in 2012. It is upto John McCain to decide whether he wants to give Mitt the job. All the best.

    April 4, 2008 03:29 pm at 3:29 pm |
  90. dave

    put this one in the Trial Balloon category.... to see how much flak a proposed VP nominee would get, how long the flak lasts, and where it is coming from.... expect trial balloons as well on Huckabee, SC Sen. Graham, the Gov of SC, and other names mentioned over the past month or so as possible VP candidates with mccain... and when all is said and done, my money is on Condi Rice...
    Mccain/Rice08-12!

    April 4, 2008 03:35 pm at 3:35 pm |
  91. Gene

    HERE WE GOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THE POOR DEMS ARE SQUIRMING. MITT ROMNEY MAKES THEM BREAK OUT IN A COLD SWEAT! A MCCAIN/ROMNEY TICKET WOULD CRUSH THEIR "HOPE" OF WINNING. AND THE HUCKABEE CROWD IS JUST PLAIN "JEALOUS!"
    LET MCCAIN/ROMNEY HANDLE THE PRESSING PROBLEMS OF THE COUNTRY. HUCKABEE SHOULD JOIN A BAND, GO ON THE MUSIC CIRCUIT, AND THEN ALL HIS 'GROUPIES' CAN FOLLOW HIM AROUND. HE LOVES THE CAMERA AND ALL THE ATTENTION FROM HIS ADORING FANS! WELL... THIS IS ONE WAY TO KEEP THE ADULATION GOING! STAY OUT OF POLITICS!

    April 4, 2008 03:37 pm at 3:37 pm |
  92. jr

    How about trumping the Dems and considering Condoleeza Rice ( I know she probably would not consider it at this time but stranger things have happened).

    God only knows that she's more qualified then either Clinton or Obama will ever be. Should something happen to McCain before his term expired she would be ready from day one.

    April 4, 2008 03:37 pm at 3:37 pm |
  93. J

    Lol. I wish Romney had gotten nominated. Every thing about the man flips and flops. If its not him it's his campaign. He's a multi-faceted flip flopper.

    April 4, 2008 03:38 pm at 3:38 pm |
  94. dave

    interesting comment above that if mccain picks lieberman, the right will walk away,,, and that if mccain picks huckabee, the indies would walk away.... maybe,but maybe not, and depending on what state the voters are in..... but, if mccain picks Condi Rice, no one is going to walk away from the Repub ticket, and quite a few millions (blacks, women, especially), will be attracted to it.... so all in all, RIce is probably a value plus added for mccain....
    Mccain/Rice08/12!

    April 4, 2008 03:42 pm at 3:42 pm |
  95. sylvester texas

    The best ticket is McCain/Ann Coulter VS Obama/Ferraro

    -with Oprah Winfrey as Secretary of State and James Carvile as White House Chief of Staff

    April 4, 2008 03:47 pm at 3:47 pm |
  96. dave

    to those above who said that obama is a moral and religious man,
    do some research on partial birth abortions, how the procedure is done, and then know that obama is an eager proponent of partial birth abortions....then come back and say again that he is a moral and religious man.... Lord, a partial birth abortion is something that would do a nazi death camp proud!

    April 4, 2008 03:47 pm at 3:47 pm |
  97. CM

    If McCain is stupid enough to choose Huckabee I'll vote for a democrat. Choosing Romney is McCain's only move to appeal to anyone who is republican for economic reasons.

    April 4, 2008 03:51 pm at 3:51 pm |
  98. Mark

    McCain should not pick Romeny as it will not help him.

    He also should not pick Huckabee as that will hurt him. I personally may not vote for McCain, but I promise I won't if he were to select Huckabee.

    McCain should pick a solid agnostic or at least a communist. This country has become so polarized that if you will not kiss the behind of every special interest group you will not win.....which is why Obama or Billary will win.

    April 4, 2008 03:55 pm at 3:55 pm |
  99. GRR

    Romney is the Republican's version of Hillary- they'll both say anything to get power. Did Weyrich finally look at Romney's "conservative" record and say oops?

    April 4, 2008 04:00 pm at 4:00 pm |
  100. Phil

    It wud have been Crist but Fl. is Rep. territory vs Obama He'll pick someone from a state that leans Dem.

    #1, Socialists hate the Dems because they can never get anyone through who will do more then maintain the status quo... they still vote for Dems because the GOP is scary like a starting a war in iraq

    April 4, 2008 04:04 pm at 4:04 pm |
  101. TJS

    P, good question. So far there isn't a choice. 1st time in years that I probably won't vote, unless I vote for someone just to be against the other one.

    April 4, 2008 04:04 pm at 4:04 pm |
  102. liz

    I love Huckabee!! I think he's the only hope McCain has. Remember - everyone agreed that Mike was Likeable - and that's what the McCain ticket needs - a likeable candidate on the ticket. Romney spells disaster for the GOP. He is simply not likeable, and not trustworthy - he'll say anything to get elected. He is not someone we can trust. Unlike Mike - who's ethical, smart, conservative, a wonderful executive officer - just check his record in Ark. He improved the roads, the schools and modernized the state - Go Mike!! If McCain is smart he'll choose Mike - after all, Mike won all the RED states!!!

    April 4, 2008 04:05 pm at 4:05 pm |
  103. JG, Seattle WA

    As a Republican (who despises the extreme right and christian coalition that our party continually caters to), I hope McCain will just pick the best woman or man for the job, rather than trying to appease any of these special interests. No more catering to small, vocal minorities of the population. Do what's best for America.

    April 4, 2008 04:11 pm at 4:11 pm |
  104. Mohammad, LA CA

    As a democrat, I'm really hoping he picks Romney. Romney is the John Kerry of the Republican party...he's such a flip flopper it will be far too easy for the Democrats to skewer him alive...and with Mccain, who also flip flops, it'll pretty much be a no brainer for the democrats.

    But I'm pretty sure he is going to pick the florida governor (crist)..it seems logical.

    April 4, 2008 04:12 pm at 4:12 pm |
  105. INDY PENDENT

    Daniel Daniel Daniel,
    Son you seem to have a deep seated hate for Mormons.
    Are you really Mike Huckabee? Come on you can tell us Mike.
    Mormons aren't like you so they must be evil or strange.
    What happened to you where you feel you must demean something that someone else feels is sacred to them.
    Do you also make fun of the Jewish Yamaka?
    Perhaps the Muslim Head Scarfs?
    Sounds like someone else is brainwashed to me.
    I feel sorry for you child. I hope you get the help you so obviously need and cry out for.

    By the way Romney would have been a better Pres then a Vice Pres.
    But McCain needs someone like Romney on his side to get this Economy back where it needs to be. McCain is clueless about the Economy, so who better to have then someone who understands the Buisness World.

    April 4, 2008 04:16 pm at 4:16 pm |
  106. Linda, from Ohio

    I think McCain should pick Joe Leiberman to be his V.P. He could pick the moderate Democrats and the Jewish vote as well. Joe Leiberman is a man who can work across the aisle as well as McCain. Truly what we need are people who can work together to get things accomplished. We have had enough of party bickering. That's why our country is in the shape it's in. Nothing gets accomplished while they are bickering and fighting.

    April 4, 2008 04:27 pm at 4:27 pm |

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