Newt Gingrich
The former speaker of the house who was the man behind the "Contract with America" and took the GOP to victory in the 1994 mid-term elections, I think does not have a chance at winning the GOP nomination should he decide to run, however I think he would be a good choice as the Vice-President candidate. After his massive loss in 1998 which gave back the house to the Democrates, Newt ended his 20-year congressional career.
Mitt Romney
The former Governor of Massachusetts has been busy lately visiting key states like Iowa and New Hampshire, plus on a recent book tour as well. Known for his Kennedy looks and charm, he would be my pick as one of the top contenders for the GOP. His only downfall would be that while Governor he supported a health care reform law in his state, that's much the same as the Obama health care reform law which his fellow Republicans vow to repel.
Tim Pawlenty
The outgoing Minnesota Governor was on the short list to be John McCain's running mate back in 2008. We all know how that turned out for the GOP. He's a popular Governor who eliminated a 4.3 billion budget deficit without raising taxes. I know a few political leaders who could learn a thing or two from this guy. His downside is that he lacks charisma, and won't be able to attract independant voters because he's against abortion and stem cell research.
Mike Huckabee
A former Governor of Arkansas, and a Baptist Minister with strong ties to the Christian right, he will do very well with the Republican base. Currently he's polling quite well and is considered by some to be the front runner, however he's also dogged by controversy for granting clemency to Arkansas criminals while he was Governor.
Sarah Palin
The former running mate to John McCain in 2008, the former Governor of Alaska, and the poster child of the Tea Party movement does not have a hope in hell of winning the nomination should she decide to run. While she's well known for her television shows, books, and her ability to raise funds for other candidates, I don't think diehard Republicans would nominate her to go up against Obama.
Here's a list of the other Republican who might throw their hats into the ring.
Bobby Jindal - Governor of Louisiana
Scott Brown - Senator of Massachusetts
Jim Demint - Senator of South Carolina
Haley Barbour - Governor of Mississippi
Mitch Daniels - Governor of Indiana
Ron Paul - Member of the House from Texas
For the GOP to beat Obama they will need to nominate someone who has the charm, and the ability to connect with Americans from across the whole political spectrum. He or She will need to get Conservative Democrates and the undecided out to the polls if they want to take the White House back in 2012, and as they now control the House they need to prove themselves that they can offer solutions to the vast number of problems facing America today. They can no longer blame the Democrates as that ship has sailed.
Until next time!
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