For the entry and discussion on John McCain, click here.

For the entry and discussion on John Edwards, click here.

(Note: I’ve been chided for this not being an in-depth analysis of where the candidates stand on the issues. I haven’t intended it to be. I just want to do a cursory overview of each of them listing points about their candidacy. Of course, John Edwards having a Second Life site is not indicative of his ability to govern. But it is telling of his presence and visibility during a campaign. And let’s be honest, that often matters more than the issues. Any in-depth discussion of the candidates positions will unfold in the comment section.)

Since the speculation that he would be seeking the presidency in 2008 has heated up, Rudy Giuliani has raced to the lead of GOP contenders. At this writing he stands head and shoulders among his competitors in early polling.

Giuliani brings an interesting mix into the Republican primaries, being the least republican of the bunch. Which could be his downfall come primary time.

Pros: America’s mayor, his leadership post 9/11 galvanized the country, sterling record as a prosecutor in his early days, perceived as being instrumental in reducing crime drastically as mayor of New York, most attractive GOP candidate across parties, oversaw the transformation of Times Square, great experience in leadership in times of crisis, moderate.

Cons: Republican , his marital history, lack of alignment with GOP power brokers over their key issues of abortion and gay rights, the Bernard Kerik flap, as of this time a lack of clarity over where he stands on major issues

Analysis: At this point in the race it would seem that the nomination is Giuliani’s to lose. He is crushing in the polls. He carries tremendous cachet with GOP voters who long for the ascendancy and good will of the party in the immediate aftermath of September 11th. There is the view that he will be the voice of reason in a “war on terror” that Bush has failed so miserably at.
But we are a long way away from February and Giuliani will be hammered by issues on his family ad nauseum between now and then. At the moment he has a great amount of cachet and appeal that will most likely wane between now and the primaries. It’s hard to picture a pro-choice Republican who is pro gay rights getting the nomination. In addition, as the dust settled on NYC greater questions about his leadership pre–9/11 have emerged.
Ultimately, I differ greatly with him on several important issues for him to have my vote. Then again, I’m not a Republican. However, he does bear watching closely.

Thoughts?