Originally Posted by pocketkangaroo

I don't know how you think they have a lock on 2008. I haven't decided who I'd vote for in 2008, but I don't think any Republicans have a lock. In fact, I think this race is so up for grabs that it will be one giant clusterfuck till election day.

Republicans - The best chance for them is either McCain or Guiliani. Two guys who are more moderate on issues and can win in a general election. Their problem is that they may not get out of their primary because the party has shifted very far right with the Christian base running it these days. While Brownback is too crazy to win, I think there will be a guy coming forward who will reach out to that far right base and pick up a lot of votes. McCain and Guiliani will split the sane Republican vote and it could be a giant mess.

Democrats - The one with the most money and power is the one who has the biggest negative reaction amongst voters. While she'll win over a huge part of the population, she is also hated by a huge portion that will never vote for her regardless of who she runs against. Obama has the most charisma out of anyone running, and may be the most intelligent, but he won't have the experience of being in a big time tight race. Everyone else running is a long shot, although Richardson could be interesting if he gets some momentum.

Either way, I don't see how any side has an advantage. If I had to pick now, I'd say the Dems do because Clinton has a huge stash of money behind her and the most experience. Not to mention that the country is going through a bit of an anti-Republican wave which was evident in the last election. They also have the majority in Governors which helps come election time, especially in some key states.

I haven't decided who I'd vote for, and will wait to see which candidate moves to the middle the most. But I can't fathom how you'd think the Republicans have an advantage after the absolute whipping they took in November.