The Republican Party; The Front Runner: Rudy Giuliani
The former U.S. attorney and two-term mayor of New York City commands the early lead among Republican hopefuls. While mayor, Giuliani was known to be an effective authoritarian, limiting the power of organized crime rings and overseeing a massive drop in crime that made New York America’s safest major city.
He gained national attention for his leadership role during and after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, which earned him the nickname “America’s Mayor.” His campaign centers on this nationalistic image, depicting him as the only choice for those who care about national security and success within the ongoing war on terrorism. His stance on social issues runs contrary to traditional conservative doctrine – he is pro-choice, supports gay marriage and is in favor of strict gun control. These views may potentially attract swing voters, but could also de-align the GOP faithful. Although Rudy Giuliani is capable of shifting the possession of New York’s 31 electoral votes away from the Democrat Hillary Clinton, he still is a long way from securing the Republican nomination.
The Runner Up: John McCain
This senior senator from Arizona is the most experienced of all the presidential candidates, having served 25 years in Congress, including four consecutive terms in the Senate. If elected, he would be the oldest first-term president at the age of 72. His appearance while on the campaign trail is vital in quelling any concerns about his health and viability as a possible two-term president.
Many within the conservative base are uneasy about supporting a candidate with the reputation of being a “maverick” congressman, as McCain has often worked closely with, and supported the legislation of, Democratic colleagues. If he is to win the crucial support of moderate voters, he will have to answer for his outspoken and continuing support of the Iraq war. With this most likely being John McCain’s final campaign for a presidential candidacy, it appears that the top nomination may ultimately elude him.
The Wild Card: Romney/Gingrich
As arguably the most photogenic candidate since JFK, Mitt Romney has enormous potential in gaining support once televised debates begin. Having only served one term as Governor of Massachusetts, his greatest obstacle is that nearly two-thirds of the eligible electorate doesn’t know who he is.
Although he was once a dedicated pro-choice advocate and is not an Evangelical Protestant (he is a devout Mormon), Romney is the most conservative of all the candidates. Mitt Romney’s status as a conservative from what is traditionally a “blue state,” along with his perceived “elect-ability” may push him to the front off the pack during the late primaries.
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich has not officially declared his candidacy, but has made his intentions known, consistently garnishing 10 percent of the projected votes among Republican voters. Gingrich is an accomplished politician, as well as respected historian and intellectual, and thus would receive much attention during debates. His reputation as a champion of far right-wing causes, during an election concentrated on centrist policies, will probably limit his impact on the overall race for the White House.
