Both Donald trump and Mike Huckabee have now announced that they will not be seeking the Republican nomination in 2012 for President. They join the "not going to run for President club" with New Jersey Governor Christie and Indiana's own Mike Pence, to name just a couple.
So who's running right now, and what are their hang ups (you know, hang ups, things from their past or present that would and could conceivably get in the way of winning)? It's important for Republican voters to recognize these; not because I want to trash any one candidate or sway people from voting for one person or the other (if I'm going to do that I'll save it for individual pieces or in private conversation, this isn't the piece for that) but because it lets us know what we're getting into. Also, its much better, in my opinion, for our side to recognize these "hang ups" first and address them; not only because it is good for the vetting process and assures the best candidates, but because it allows us to frame the debate and not let the left lead the Independents around by the nose with their takes on the problems with the candidates. Those that aren't of one party ideology or the other troll the internet for info, and the well informed ones (or rather, those reading this piece) recognize and appreciate the honesty that comes from supporters on our own side not blindly following, but rather proactively criticizing and keeping our own guys in line.
The announced candidates are:
Newt Gingrich: It'll be hard for him in the primary because so many conservatives are upset about him working with Pelosi and putting out the ad on global warming. Additionally, conservatives, independents, and liberals alike will be sure to skewer him about his infidelity, and the apparent hypocritical gesture of trying to impeach Clinton over his. He did do a good job while Speaker of the House though, at least I think so, so as long as he is able to move past the primary and keep his personal baggage checked he stands a chance, though not necessarily a great one.
Gary E. Johnson- While Johnson has a good track record as former Governor of New Mexico, he doesn't have much name recognition (which is a bit of a problem with many of the people on this list). He is also a libertarian, which will reek havoc on Ron Paul's already slim chance of winning the primary.
Ron Paul- As mentioned above, while Paul has a large libertarian following, and probably the best chance of winning the primary this year than any other, Johnson's candidacy will more than likely file away those better chances of winning. His recent comments about his positions on drugs and that he wouldn't have ordered Osama Bin Laden's assassination didn't sit well with a lot of people (both on the left and right) as well.
Tim Pawlenty- The former Minnesota Governor and self pronounced social conservative has two main hurdles: name recognition and his lack of exciting the grass roots base.
Herman Cain- The former Federal Reserve banker and CEO of Godfathers Pizza stands out as a black Republican, which excites those black conservatives that would like to see themselves better represented. While he certainly can tout business experience, again, lack of name recognition is a problem. Also, with many a person on the right weary of the Fed, he would have some problems getting the vote of farther right fiscally minded people.
Fred Karger- This candidate stands out to many moderate and libertarian candidates because he is an openly gay Republican. Like Cain, he could snag that segment of voters and shows that there is diversity in the party, but he will have trouble winning over social conservatives at the same time.
Mitt Romney- Two words: Romney Care. With the health care debate still glaring in the mind of many a Republican, Romney will have a hard time winning the primary. When it comes to the general election, polls have indicated that he can win over a lot of Independents and moderate Democrats, but I'm not certain there are enough clearly defined differences to energize Republicans and get them to the polls to beat Obama.
These are the officially announced candidates I've been able to find; by all means, if I'm leaving somebody out, message me or leave a comment and let me know. As other candidates join the club I'll be certain to write about them as well.
