2 of 11

Write now Article Tools

Once thought to be "road-kill" politically, John McCain is now steam-rolling his way to the Republican nomination for the November presidential general election. Despite their best shots, McCain has knocked off all competitors excepting for Mike Huckabee, and Ron Paul. It is almost impossible mathematically for Huckabee to defeat him, and Paul was never seriously in the running.

If there were such thing as the "man of the year" for each political party, John McCain would win for the Republicans. Mike Huckabee would be a distant second, but is to be commended for doing far better than anyone expected. On the Democrats side, Barack Obama is their "man/woman of the year" without question.

An interesting note as to how John McCain managed to pick up steam in the presidential primaries is that a curious game plan by Guiliani made it all possible. Once thought to be the man to beat, Guiliani decided to wait until the Florida primary to actually begin his race. That decision opened the door to McCain to win in New Hampshire, and the rest is now history.

Along the way, McCain picked up many endorsements from respected local politicians who participate in their area politics. The success of the surge operation in Iraq gave McCain a strong talking point which he successfully capitalized upon. His stature among the candidates as being a strong potential Commander in Chief was enhanced, while other candidates sought to find pegs to hang their hats upon.

Romney did well on the economic front speaking about his qualifications, but it was not enough. In every debate, McCain turned the attention towards his Commander in Chief credentials and scored his points. Meanwhile, Fred Thompson and Mike Huckabee tried to emphasize tax reform, and conservative values as their strong points. Both had limited success, but neither could beat McCain at the Commander in Chief game.

As he picks up even more steam with the ongoing endorsements, Mitt Romney as of today, McCain is now consolidating his power base preparing for the battle of the general election in November. Mike Huckabee must capitulate soon, and will add to the swelling support of the party faithful behind McCain. When you get up a good head of steam, almost anything is possible, even the presidency.

Learn more about this author, Bob Schmidt.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about US elections 2008: John McCain picks up steam?
We want to hear your view. Write now!