The Huckabee Strategy Question

Posted On
02/15/2008

The Huckabee Strategy Question

At this point in the race, I’m not sure I understand Mike Huckabee’s refusal to quit the race. No one really expects him to win, and at this point, we have to ask how well his continued campaigning is serving the Republican Party. Regardless of your position as a Democrat or Republican, this is an interesting media “perception” issue. For instance, on the positive side, Huckabee’s position is that his voice continues to be heard, and the differences in the candidates need to be clear. I assume he wants
certain issues to continue to be discussed. He considers himself the dark horse – the come from behind guy. But with no real chance of winning, he also has the potential to be seen as the “driven by ego, not policy guy.” Plus, every day the fight continues is one less day for the Republicans to pull together as a solid force for the general election. While Democrats are punching it out between Hillary and Obama, the Republicans could be solidifying a message that would potentially expand their voting base. It will be interesting to see how the public views Mike’s strategy and if it backfires. Let us know your thoughts on the issue, and give us some insight on how you think the strategy will work (or not work).

This entry was posted on Friday, February 15th, 2008 at 1:22 pm and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

CRO

As political science major, this election year has been fascinating. Personally, I agree with Huckabee's strategy. Democratic voters have an opportunity to state their preference for the party's nominee, given the tight race between Obama and Clinton. Why shouldn't Republican voters have an opportunity to state their preference through the end of the primary/caucus season? Basic democracy.
greg

i am sort of surprised by huckabee's actions, too, because i think he was well-positioned to be either romney or mccain's running mate. but when romney quit the race, it made things sort of awkward for huckabee. i wonder if staying in the race will help or hurt his chances at being mccain's running mate. you saw john edwards quit early four years ago in the democratic race, and he ended up being kerry's running mate. if huckabee stays in much longer, things could get ugly, and that could really hurt his chances at the vp nom.

setting all that aside, i sometimes think huck just decided he isn't going to quit until there's no time left on the clock. that's admirable, in its own way.
http://anunlikelyperspective.blogspot.com/ Dominique Small

Oh…and btw…Huckabee supporters do expect him to win – at the convention!
Phoebe Naguit

I agree with Huckabee to stay in the race for the following reasons.

1) To follow-through with his word to his supporters that unlike the other candidates, he will not quit the race until it is completely over.

2) When Romney endorsed McCain and encouraged his delegates to swing their vote to McCain, that was all that it was – an encouragement. He cannot require them to do so. I know, for a fact, that there are some Romney delegates that are NOT planning to swing their votes over to McCain. Romney use to say, "A vote for Huckabee would be a vote for McCain." So some of his supporters were motivated to vote for Romney. What a complete slap in the face to then find out that a vote for Romney was really the vote for McCain – if Romney has his say. It has disillusioned some of his supporters that truly believed that he was the conservative choice. Now, mind you, I have heard that Huckabee said that he will support whoever the Republican nominee is (if it is not him), but until every person has a chance for their voice to be heard, then there is no reason to quit.

3) Until McCain gets the 1,191 BOUND delegates, then Huckabee need not quit. He can take it all the way to the convention and there he can prove that he is the BEST man to fight Obama or Clinton. He has the amazing ability to debate and he has a strong platform. McCain has yet to really defend where he stands. I would love him to debate Huckabee in Ohio. If he is too fearful that the debate will show where he is weak, then there is no way that he is ready to debate Clinton and Obama who are both great orators.
Elizabeth Conley

Partisan politics have done more to dumb down our elections than any other single factor.

It is very frustrating to see the registered Democrats and Republicans of this nation select the 2 candidates for each presidential election.

Each party consistently chooses the type of candidate the majority of people in our nation find repugnant. By the time election day arrives, the vast majority of voters go to the polls to vote against a candidate, rather than for someone. No wonder voter turn out is so low. It is discouraging to go to the polls to vote for the least of two evils.

Personally, I don't think Huckabee is the best man for the job. That being said, he's preferable to Obama, Clinton and McCain. It would be a shame if he dropped out of the race because of partisan politics. Our elections should not be about the pettifogging partisan squabbles of the Republicans and the Democrats. It should be about finding the best man to serve as our president.

It would be wonderful if we could finally elect someone who was not a partisan hack. It is always encouraging to see a few genuine statesmen remain in the fight in spite of the overwhelming pressure to leave the field to the two frontrunners. Someday, maybe one of these fine people will be elected. Frankly, there's always the hope that the two frontrunners will do something so egregiously stupid that the nation wakes up on election day and votes against both of them. Given how amazingly silly partisan hacks are, that's a good possibility. If for that hope and that alone, Huckabee would be well advised to stay in the fight.

Given that Huckabee seems poised to be #3 in the fight, he's got every reason to hope for a win. Once voters find out how Left leaning Obama is, the vast majority of Democrats will become discouraged. McCain has skeletons in his closet, and when the timing could not be worse for him, these secrets will be revealed. Huckabee just has to hang in there and be himself. No great challenge there.
carol

I'm not sure I understand Mike Huckabee's refusal to quit the race. If you would like to be sure, visit his website. If you want to understand, visit his website. we invite you to visit the site with a clean, opened mind. with that, you can figure out for yourself and answer your own questions, unlike those who want to take away the rights of the ones yet to vote. those of us that has figured out for ourselves who should be, should still have the right to say so with a vote. the question should be, why would an american want the right of another american to vote their choice of two thats left be taken away. for what, the republican party? I want to vote for the best person running, no matter their party, their race, on matter their gender. the big two party system is one thing thats wrong today. the fight between the two is going to end up killing them both. it has already for me. I vote for the best (in my book) not a PARTY. at this go around, the best (to me, 1 american) is Mike Huckabee, THE PARTY doesn't matter, AMERICA AND THE PEOPLES VOTE DOES!! and to ''no one really expects him to win..'' pleanty of americans want him to win, even expect him to win…..so where did you get that idea? the media? well heres what they are not telling you (us). he can still WIN untill someone has 1191. huck can win even if mccain gets a # of 1190. lets spell it out, Huckabee will lose when mmcain gets the #one one nine one period end of sentance
Nedra Randall

Mike Huckabee is still in the race because he believes and beautifully states what a great majority believe. WE THE PEOPLE. Stop trying to disenfranchise our votes. We the people have a right to Choose our candidate.

Mike Huckabee is trustworthy, proven strong, and loves this country and willing the serve in a very hard and dangerous time. I for one am not ready for a North American Union, or a one would government.

Vote for Mike Huckabee and quit trying to second guess him. He says what he means.
Cindy Moore

If you would look at Mike Huckabees website, you would see people pleading for him to stay in the race and give them a voice. This is not only about the Republican Party, but about a persons right to vote, a right to a choice. When the republican party "big shots" in Washington try to tell us who we "HAVE" to pick then maybe we need to send a message to that party. It is about the people, not the Washington elite who don't care whether our values continue, but only about power. Mike Huckabee is an honorable man and he has taken a lot of heat from the media and others and never lost his cool. He is doing what the people are asking him to do, and if it damages the republican party, maybe they should think twice about forcing a candidate on us. If they have to live with a democratic president for 4 years, its not Mike Huckabees fault, it is the fault of the establishment ignoring the voice and rights of the people.
Lance

There are a lot of articles saying Mike should "drop out"….

concede because he "can't win". I recall the old saying, "there is more than one way to skin a cat".

Should the Giant's have given up in the 4th quarter because the Patriots had such a great team and were unbeaten??

Why are there no articles saying that McCain "could lose" simply by not having 1191 delegates? Should McCain only get 1190 delegates, hey folks, its a brand new game.
http://silentsoulsforhuckabee.com Net

I do not have any problem with Huckabee staying in the race. In fact, I'd be heartbroken if he pulled out. And anyone who knows Huckabee, I'm sure knows this has little to do with ego and lots to do with his issues he wishes to discuss and eventually put into action. I love the "no more IRS" thing, the arts in education stuff, but most of all, I LOVE his love for life and family. Huckabee is a rare gift to us. Whatever it takes to try to win the nomination, is fine by me. Remember John McCain in addition to having almost NO passion for anything that I can see, thus not a good candidate for nomination, is well on the plus side of fifty. And he may just decide, if there are any health issues between now and November, that he maybe should sit this one out and retire. We continue to pray for the "Huckabee Miracle."

Silent Souls for Huckabee
Betsy Clark

I have met Governor Huckabee, and I have to agree that ego is the last thing keeping him in this race. Even if John McCain ends up winning the nomination, I think that Huckabee is doing the party a favor by staying in the race. He is very respectful of John McCain, but he is keeping the party energized, as opposed to lethargic. If he were no longer in the race, I would rarely turn to news channels. What do I care about the details of the Democrats nomination process? I know one of them will be nominated, and I can vote for neither in good conscience.

Wow! Who I can vote for in good conscience is Mike Huckabee! I for one believe with all my heart that his vision, values and leadership are the best thing that could possibly happen to our country.

I believe that he has the uncanned communication skills to go up against Obama, and the winsomeness to go up against Hillary. He has the plan for our country's future that brings hope to our great nation once again. He is unwavering in principle and fluid in style. He is likeable, and a strong leader. He has the passion and experience and ideas to be a historical President that is loved while in office, and remembered with fondness after his eight year term. There are so many things I could list, as far as policy issues, etc. that I think would be great for our country. I believe if he got the exposure he needs, America would be proud to accept him as a great leader and President. I am very thankful that he is still in the race and is giving me a reason to actually get out and make a choice in my vote.
http://anunlikelyperspective.blogspot.com/ Dominique Small

Phil -

I've been thinking about your supposition here all day.

Something you may or may not know about Mike is the loyalty of those who are supporting him.

Every 5-6 days, we raise $1,000,000.00 for Mike.

For Georgia, we made well over 40,000 phone calls and that happens in almost every state.

Although Mike has a small fiscally sound grassroots campaign, he gets as much done if not more, than all the other candidates.

And he has done something that only Obama at this point has done. He has attracted supporters who are loyal, determined and EXCITED about their candidate.

Despite what the media and pundits are saying, the Republican Party is excited about this election. The problem here is that the forces that be are trying to squelch that enthusiasm because it doesn't line up with party politics.

Anyhoo…thanks for writing "Branding Faith." Great book!
jamie Tedesco

Phil..

Mike Huckabee's strategy is simple. HE CAN WIN!

Despite what the media says, McCain is severely lacking party support nationwide and will not win as is. Even though the hard party line is all calling for Huckabee/Romney backers to fall in line for the party.. You have to really question.. Is this good for the party and my personal beliefs? I think it sends a bad signal to back some one you disagree with and throw your principles out the window for the next best thing. I will support Huckabee to win Texas and a few big others and hopefully force a brokered convention. It saddens me that so many in our party are taking the easy road out of supporting McCain before they have to. We are still selecting our candidates and math shows this is true. McCain has not won, he is leading. Big Difference. Besides this… Mike has shown real heart, truth, laughter and leadership in his campaign. These are all traits I want to see in my President.

See analysis of wining for Mike below.

Alright guys, I just did a state by state analysis and it is VERY GOOD NEWS!!!!

The short answer is that if we can win Texas, Ohio, and Wisconsin then it will be almost impossible for McCain to avoid a brokered convention.

Here are the details of why. Right now McCain (assuming he gets all the delegates in Maryland) has 822 delegates. That means he needs 369 more delegates to clinch. Wisconsin, Texas, and Ohio are all winner take all by congressional district. Let's assume McCain only wins 6 congressional districts in these states. That brings the delegates he needs to 351. The only two somewhat winner take all states left are Mississippi, which we should win, and Vermont, which McCain should win, bringing his total down to 334. Pennsylvania is a strange state with each congressional district getting three delegates and the "party leaders" deciding the at-large delegates, let's assume McCain does well here and gets 64 out of 74, bringing his total needed down to 270. Indiana is winner take all by Congressional District but the at large remain uncommitted until the convention meaning no one can "win" them. Let's assume Huckabee does well here and McCain only picks up two districts or six delegates; that means McCain will need 264 more delegates from the remaining states.

The rest of the states allocate their delegates by either a proportional primary or a convention (with different rules governing these.) For McCain to prevent a brokered convention in these states, he will have to win 264 out of the possible 422 remaining delegates or 62.559%. So far McCain has only pulled off that large of a percentage in one place (DC) so this is highly unlikely.

So, our battleground is Wisconsin, Texas, and Ohio. If we will these states, we will likely have a brokered convention.

Conservatism can win! Huckabee can win!
Melissa Darnall

I can state it real simple: He told his supporters he will quit once McCain reaches 1,191. Period. And McCain hasn't done that yet.

Mike Huckabee is a man of his word, which is one of the many character traits that will ultimately get him to the White House. Just wait and see.

Sounds like a lot of people don't understand that concept anymore.
http://justcrazypolitics.blogspot.com Vradic

I think Mike Huckabee is staying in the race for some very good reasons.
1) If there is ANY chance to get a conservative nominated instead of McCain, we should fight while there is any hope.
2) As long as he is campaigning Mike continues to get out and spread the message of the things he believes we need in this country.
3) He helps keep conservatism out in the light, where McCain can’t pretend it’s irrelevant.
4) As long as Mike Campaigns, he can still receive contributions. That gives him resources to spread the message now and meanwhile prepare for the next fight. After 4 years of McCain or Democrat damage, we’ll need a good conservative candidate like Mike Huckabee “The Great Motivator” in 2012. He can keep the funds from this race for the next.
5) It puts Mike in a better position to campaign for conservative legislators in the 2008 elections.
Kathy P.

I am still giving money to Huckabee's campaign and would not be doing so if I felt this to be a lost cause. I have always considered McCain to be a closet Democrat, and a rather unlikeable one at that. Therefore, I have no reason to support the GOP this time around if Big-shot Mac gets the nod. Huckabee is my last chance to have a candidate to vote for in November. I hope he stays in and I truly hope he keeps McCain from getting the 1191 delegates to wrap this up. If so, the GOP will owe him big-time.
Ben

The fact is, not everything is a matter of strategy. Sometimes, it's a matter of keeping your word and honoring your loyal supporters. Throughout this race, both the media and the party establishment have attempted to marginalize Governor Huckabee's candidacy by saying that he was a surrogate for another candidate, or merely attempting to win the VP slot. Now these people have egg all over their face but won't admit it. What political strategists can't understand is that there are still SOME people who don't have a hidden agenda. If you want to know why Huckabee is still in the race, go to his web site, where he says the following:

"I am seeking the Presidency because I care deeply about important issues facing America—Life, Marriage, the Fair Tax, the Second Amendment, American Border Security and Sovereignty. I am as committed to those issues as I ever was, and my campaigning around the country has convinced me that the majority of Republicans want me to continue to fight for these and other conservative causes. So I will."

It's that simple.
Debbie, Michigan

I am so happy Governor Huckabee is in this race till someone wins enough delegates. Senator McCaine has not won enough delegates and for the media pundits and the republican bigwigs to tell Gov. Huckabee to drop out is preposterous. This is still the United States, is it not? We still have free elections, do we not? Senator McCaine, for so many does not represent the Republican party that they once knew – rather some neoliberal branch of the Republican party.

I can't believe so many would have the audacity to suggest that Governor Huckabee just drop out. Noone else has been asked to drop out – what is everybody afraid of??The Truth? There are no conservatives on talk radio or TV who care about the truth anymore. This election has been a true eye-opener for me. Money is everyone's god these days. No one seems to be worried about the American people having their election. Noone cares whether or not all Americans have a chance to vote. Sentator McCaine will not win in November whether Governor Huckabee stays in or drops out. Senator McCaine should drop out because he can't seem to rally the people behind him and won't be able to even if he has 10 years to prepare before the election in November.

A brokered convention is very possible – let the people talk at the polls and mind your own business and shut your big mouths.
Tori

Go Huckabee!! I am so pleased that Huckabee is staying in until he wins!!
Georgia Wilkinson

Re: "The Huckabee Strategy Question"

If Huckabee drops out, many people will feel that they have to vote for John McCain because they have no other choice. Well, I do not like the idea of having to vote for ANYONE for that reason. I think for many conservative Republicans, is isn't going to be a case of "Let's pull together and do the best we can with what we have." Some of us will sit out the election before we will compromise basic Republican/conservative principles that we do not believe John McCain represents. There is a very good chance that McCain will NOT get the 1191 delegates he needs before the convention and that a brokered convention will indeed become a reality.
Oliver

Huckabee has listened to his fellow Americans and he won't let them down by throwing in the towel because of pressure from the media. He's been ripped off by them. Every interview is wasted by questions about why he's in this race. He's done great defending himself and his supporters. He is the most experienced and trustworthy candidate running and has shown he can do much more with one dollar than any other candidate. Give him a break and let the people support him and what he stands for…he is the true conservative!
Dawn F

If you consider the fact that Huckabee, Romney, and Ron Paul together have received more of the Republican votes than John McCain, it becomes clear that McCain does not represent the values of the majority of Republicans. If McCain does not get 1191 delegates by the time the primary elections are over, then this fact is brought to light even more. If this happens, there is a very real possibility that McCain may not be picked as the nominee at a brokered Convention, especially after Gov. Huckabee is given the opportunity to share his plan for America in more detail.

Huckabee is still in the race because he feels strongly that he is the candidate who can win against the Democrats. After all, he has a message of real change (getting rid of the IRS and getting goverment back to its basic purpose of protecting the people, not controlling them), and he is the most articulate candidate of them all. He is likable, quick-witted, and genuinely cares about people. The liberal media don't like him because they know he would be a more formidable opponent to the Democrats than McCain. Let's face it, the liberals want McCain to be the nominee because they will "win" no matter who gets the Presidency.

If Huckabee were to drop out, the true conservatives would have no voice, and McCain might get the idea that his liberal-leaning views are widely accepted among Republicans. Huckabee absolutely can win the nomination until McCain gets 1191 delegates, and I think he should keep on truckin'!
Jill Anderson

Go Huckabee Go !! ……I admire you so much for not quitting as it just shows the world what a great wise, honest and loyal man you are. This is the rules of the election process – folks ! Mike's conservative views need to be continually heard as we are not hearing them from anyone else. Mike is not ashamed to talk about them. Of course we know that Obama and Hillary are Not for pro-life and traditional-family marriage. HOW – OH! HOW ?? - can any good Christian endorse and vote for them. McCain does not support an amendment to the constitution on these two matters……All things are possible! Thank-you Mike for being LOYAL to your supporters and contributors who helped get you to this place… Let me tell you …..when I was a kid in grade school so many years ago. Back then they pumped into our heads: What is the greatest virtues to have: I can still hear my teacher say HONESTY, TRUTHFULNESS, DEPENDABILITY AND LOYALTY. Whew!! Where have they gone? I find the one "LOYALTY" missing in many people today including some Christians.

LET'S ALL HUCKA-BUST FOR A HUCKA-WIN !! We do believe in Miracles !
TexasForHuck

John McCain is benefited from the unclearity about who is the true conservative candidate. Fred Thompson does not have the heart to go the distance. Mitt Romney only pretends to be a conservative. Rudy has a faied compaign strategy. In the end, all of the above three help John McCain. Fred and Mitt splitted the conservative votes with Mike Huckabee. Rudy never put up a fight and yielded the moderate votes to John McCain. So, John did not actually win these primaries. He is the lucky one. If Huckabee and McCain were the head-to-head from the beginning, McCain will not have a chance to beat Mike.

Huckabee should stay in the race since GOP has lost her soul. The party elites only care about themselves and lose touch to the party base. By staying in the race, Huckabee can rally the conservatives and advance their causes.
Lars Kemmann

As an immigrant (legal!), I cannot vote. But I can understand the American system of government. And let me tell you something, people. This country will not survive if people start to vote for 'someone who can actually win.' George Washington, James Madison, & co., would never have betrayed their beliefs in a vote for someone who won a popularity contest in the mass media.

You say you don't understand why Huckabee is still in this race for the Republican nomination? You say his race is hurting the Republican Party?

Capitulating on our beliefs is what is hurting the Republican Party. Conservatives have opted to vote for the 'lesser of two evils' for far too long. It's time that we voted for the right candidate. Huckabee is that candidate.

The 'horse race' mentality in this country may have been effective in manipulating voters over the last few decades. But that is changing with the Mike Huckabee campaign.

It's not over until it's over!
J.C. Sampsell

"Republicans could be solidifying a message that would potentially expand their voting base"

???

You mean big Mac doesn't have his messaged work out yet? Or he can't decide on which one would be more popular in the poles? Or he can't figure out how to camouflage the record he is running on?

I'm proud to be supporting a candidate who doesn't have to change his beliefs, and never has. With Governor Huckabee, what you see is what you get. And millions of Americans are liking what they see. Just give us the chance to show it at the poles. That's all we're asking.

Go Mike, Go!
Celeste

First of all, you asked how this is serving the Republican party. The job of the candidate is not to serve a party but the people of the US. I believe that Huckabee is staying in the race for a reason that is foreign to politics today…integrity. I actually think this man means what he says. Show me another candidate that would fit that description! I think Huckabee sees America's need to return to her roots to have a future. Every other candidate stumps on the promises of change and yet has the same basic philosophy of empowering government while diminishing the power of the people. No real change there. Huckabee demonstrates his belief of government "by the people" in taking his time, energies, and resources to give people a chance to have their voice despite the possiblity of personal loss to himself.

Another question that might well be asked: why is he still being asked this time and again? Perhaps it has been so long since we have heard an honest answer that we do not recognize truth. We no longer expect to hear it.
Shelley Ahlersmeyer

It's clear to me why he is still in the race:

1 – he would be a great president!

2 – he can prevent John McCain from getting enough delegates

3 – he can win at the convention

I am still giving money and making phone calls for him. So I believe he can win or I would have stopped by now!

Keep going Mike!
bonsaibob99

Time on the clock has nothing to do with it. It is the delegate count. No Mike cannot get the 1191 to win. But he can stop John McCain from getting them also. Then it becomes a brokered convention. All past 5 brokered conventions went to the underdog. Now that is democracy in action. No the news media will not tell you this. They would rather play along with the GOP and coronate John McCain president.

Whats really admirable is the support Mike has to take the GOP campaign the extra mile to allow all voters the ability to respond to political choice not selection. The power of one and the vote of many.
Rita L.

Melissa,

My thoughts exactly!! The longer this goes on..the more people will realize,that Mike is in it for US..WE the PEOPLE. I have NEVER witnessed a candidate with more integrity than Mike Huckabee.I will vote this year for my first time ever,and it was Mike Huckabee that persuaded me to register..I'll write him in if I have to.

~Expect the Unexpected~
Rita L.

Remember this…even if Mike drops out,which I don't believe he will,because he has made a commitment to his supporters,to stay in until the end..and he is a man of his word…If he were to drop out.. there is no need to sit out the general election..we can ALL still WRITE in Mike on the BALLOTS in November! We cannot GIVE UP!
Dave B

I think Huckabee wants to get enough delegates to get ahead of Romney so in 2012 he can start the race by saying "I was No. 2 in 2008".
http://www.crossroads-creative.com Richard Gaspard

Let's just hope that he's doing that in 2016, not 2012. Being there in 2012 means that Barack or Hillary got elected. Not good.
Cindy Moore

You should go to MikeHuckabee.com you would see you are wrong. His supporters are very passionate about him and the media and Washington are trying very hard to stifle our voice. Thank goodness for the internet or we would probably not know how many supporters there are because we would have no outlet for our voice since the media is ignoring us. If Washington wasn't scared, they would be after Ron Paul as well to get out of the race.
Bart Breen

Although there's 2 candidates left in each major party, the battles are quite different.

Obama and Hillary are very close positionally to one another. The battle there appears to be more over the personalities and image and who the face of the party is to be. This is not as much a battle between a centrist and their far left wing.

The Republican Battle is an ideology split. A significant portion of the party, which has exercised control over candidate selection on platform in the past, find themselves with a candidate whom they cannot fully endorse.

It's hard to understand exactly why Huckabee is staying in the race.

1. There aren't enough delegates in the race left for him to win.

2. Romney has endorsed McCain and on that basis alone its reasonable to assume that more than 50% of Romney's delegates will swing to McCain.

3. Huckabee has become identified as the de Facto leader of a strong faction of the party which will need to turn out and vote for McCain in the general election.

The democrats are breaking records on voter turnout for a primary. The chance of this going to the convention is energizing them and they have a late convention this year. Election day is less than 3 months away from that date. That energy could move quickly into the General Election and the Democrat nominee, probably Obama, but maybe Hillary, will carry momentum.

If Huckabee quits now, the Republicans will lose energy of a significant portion of their traditional support turning out to make their voice heard. Huckabee himself is being very careful not to take a swing at McCain directly and focus on the voice of the constituency he is connecting with.

Huckabee and McCain were pretty much cooperating with each other while Romney was in the race and the major threat. McCain's people threw support to Huckabee in West Virginia for example to block Romney from winning a caucus.

I thought at that time that there must be a deal between McCain and Huckabee for Huckabee to be the running mate. When Romney dropped out, I was surprised that Huckabee didn't as well.

Maybe party strategists don't want the focus to be just on the Democrats right now and want to maintain interest in voter turnout. If Huckabee gets some wins and the voters who now say they can't support McCain, see their voice heard and THEN McCain brings Huckabee on board at or just before their convention, they may believe they will maintain some momentum and allow those rejecting Huckabee a sense of victory that will bring more people to vote for him with the conservative heir apparant on the ballot.

Either that he's an egotistical shooting star who's enjoying some time in the limelight. ;)
BonsaiBob99

Greetings Bart;

Enjoyed reading your blog until the end. Unfortunately you are not quite informed on Mike Huckabees position at this time. Mike has no interest in coming onboard right at the convention. Mike is running for president of the US. He has not quit. Not he does not have a chance at 1191 delegates to win. But he does have a chance at stopping John McCain from getting that total either. It this happens then there is a brokered convention. Delegates become at large and can vote for anyone. In the past there have been 5 brokered conventions. In all of them the underdog became the party nomination. Yup Mike is running for president of the U.S. Not a cabinet post or VP or any other nonsense position. If you went to his website http://www.MikeHuckabee.com , you would have found this out. Quite frankly Mike has over 20,000 grass roots rangers that represent no telling how many others out there in support. The common consensus is that they will not vote for the lesser of 2 evils this time. They intend to not vote at all. This will be a big loss to the GOP. The power of one and the vote of the many. Not a selection this time.
laura

what surprises me about all of this is the assumption that if you were to not have the choice of more than one candidate, then the votes would automatically swing to the only candidate left.

there are many republicans who don't want McCain in power, that's why they are for Huck. I think Huck is staying in so the votes will actually be there. It would be sad to see only one guy to vote for, and the republicans stay home because they don't want to side with McCain. can you imagine how that would be spun in the media?

i guess that's what you said Bart.
Mel M

I was not originally for Mike H. because I didn't think he was a true conservative. However in comparing him to John Mc. he looks very good. I hope he stays in and is able to prevent McCain from getting enough delegates so that it forces the convention to choose. You obviously do not agree with this strategy but I believe the integrity of the party is at stake. McCain has done so many things in the senate that are outright travesties for the conservative cause that it is shameful. I cannot support McCain in the general election but I may be forced to vote for him to prevent someone worse, like Obama, from being elected.

We need to nominate someone who has been a true conservative and John McCain is not it.

On a related note, I was flabbergasted when Mitt Romney endorsed McCain. I am totally confused! That makes Mitt Romney just as bad as McCain and I never would have guessed it. I just can't believe how politicians (Romney was not supposed to be one) compromise values or don't hold them strongly enough to abide by them.
http://anunlikelyperspective.blogspot.com/ Dominique Small

I was so surprised when I sat down to read your blog today, Phil, because I just started reading your book, [I have read 2/3 of the book already] BRANDING FAITH, and was excitedly emailing the Huckabee's team about how we need to do a much better job of branding Mike [if we have even done that to begin with.]

For me this race is not about a political party and surrounding that party for the betterment of said party. For me this race is about choosing the best candidate for the job of President of the United States.

Many Americans, myself included, want to have the right to choose the candidate we feel is the best fit and not have our elected officials force a candidate down our throats.

Whatever happened to "we the people and by the people." This election is crucial because the sovereignty of American is on the line with the three Senatorial candidates that we have before us as well as many of our Christian values.

I recently fought McCain tooth and nail on a bill that would redraw the lines of America to include Canada and Mexico, which unfortunately passed. [And people wonder why he takes the positions he takes on border control and illegal immigrants?]

But I digress.

The point is that the election process is meant to give the American people a voice in choosing who will lead our country. Mike has many people who believe he is that candidate and have written him almost daily asking him to stay in the race.

He is staying in because he truly believes that

1. He is the best choice for the job, and

2. because he believes that this election process is about the people's right to vote, and

3. because we are asking him to stay in the race and fight to become the 44th president.

His staying in has nothing to do with ego, becoming VP or whatever. It has to do with his commitment to fulfilling a promise to those who support him that he would run this race until he won, or until another winner was chosen. Neither of which has happened.

Despite what the media may lead us to believe it is not unusual for this process to go to the convention and be brokered nor is it a bad thing. Ultimately, what is important is that the people have the right to vote and that their voices are heard.

Although I am a newbie when it comes to the branding process, I took your book to heart and completely redid my website to brand Mike as, "THE candidate you can TRUST."

And I do, bar none.
Donna

"The price of freedom is eternal vigilance." – Thomas Jefferson

The Republican Nomination process in 2008 has been plagued with misinformation and a huge conflict of interest in my opinion. For the reasons below, I believe that the only way to resolve this is for McCain and Huckabee to run all the way to the convention, and to settle this at the Republican convention in Sept.
1. Romney was sold as the "conservative" candidate, by his $87 million in ads & mailings, etc.. ($35 million his money) spent in 2007 and by talk show radio hosts (Limbaugh, Hannity, Levine, Glenn Beck, Laura Ingraham……..on and on) who were actually under a huge conflict of interest … Romney's Bain Capital bought Clear Channel Communications in Nov 2006 … along with syndication rights to Limbaugh and others and their access to 1100 radio stations, tv stations… etc. ;
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/11/16/AR2006111600537.html

and by conservative groups such as Jay Sekulow, Dobson, Tony Perkins, Lou Sheldon (Traditional Values Coalition), Paul Weyrich, National Review, who never distinguished between Huckabee and Romney's records, even though they are like day and night with respect to being conservative. Even up to the end, before Super Tuesday, the voter guides from Dobson, Perkins, and Sheldon, did not distinguish between Romney and Huckabee on the socially conservative issues. Only Don Wildmon of American Family Association did, quite markedly in their voter guide.

Why these groups would believe Romney, especially when those on both sides of the aisle in Massachusetts have said………………….

?…James Rappaport, former head of the Massachusetts Republican Party held a press conference recently to announce his endorsement of Rudy Giuliani. ….. Rappaport, who served when Romney was governor, said Romney ?has a strong record of showmanship as opposed to actual performance.? On his relationship with the State Legislature, ?His word is no good ? Mitt Romney would say one thing in a meeting and literally go out of the meeting to the press and tell the opposite story. There was no desire in the legislature to be accommodating to him because they couldn?t trust him?. Romney will be clear today on what he believes today, and he?ll be clear tomorrow on what he believes tomorrow, but they may be different things.?
http://www.townhall.com/columnists/SandyRios/2007/12/10/mitt_romney_may_have_had_no_choice,_but_i_do

wikipedia.com ………In a June 2007 New England Cable News interview, Barney Frank said of Mitt Romney: "The real Romney is clearly an extraordinarily ambitious man with no perceivable political principle whatsoever. He is the most intellectually dishonest human being in the history of politics."[10]

2. Romney's record in Massachusetts and his family's political history, never was conservative. http://www.massresistance.org/romney/

3. McCain benefited from the misrepresentation that Romney was conservative. John McCain funded by Soros since 2001
Candidate's Reform Institute also accepted funds from Teresa Kerry

World Net Daily article Feb 12, 2008 http://www.worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=56177

For these reasons, I believe that the Republican nomination must go all the way to the convention. I can take wide differences of opinion in politics, but I can't take media manipulation and misinformation.

Ronald Reagan said in 1960 to a group of GE employees, ""Mankind has known but a few moments of freedom in its entire history. Most of those moments have
been ours. But this freedom is never more than one generation
away from extinction. Can we honestly say ours is still unimpaired?".

I'm not done fighting for the truth. I want good government. I want Mike Huckabee to be President.
Lindsey

Donna,

You said it ALL!! Wow! My exacto feelings!! I am not done fighting either!! #1 I cannot compromise my beliefs. #2 Romney used to say a vote for Huckabee was a vote for McCain….Well, geuss what? A vote for McCain is a vote for Obama #3 McCain CAN'T beat Obama!!! Huck has won all the red states that count. McCain will be competing for the African American votes in the Red states & I'm pretty sure he can't win them….and I'm certain the evangelical vote won't go to McCain either.

McCain will LOSE by a LANDSLIDE….WE are fighting to keep our ONLY hope for President!
Jason

Here is what I find more and more astonishing. The last possibility any commentator considers is that Huckabee might just be telling the truth!

I agree with those who have made this point before: the media and political classes are now jaded to the point that they simply cannot recognize plain candor anymore. But there's more. They don't believe in authentic conviction; faith in a higher calling; sincere devotion to public service.

When a Mike Huckabee claims these as a basis for staying in the race, everyone blinks, looks blank, and says, "Why could Mike possibly be staying in the race?"  As a regular Joe in flyover country who still recognizes conviction, faith, and devotion even in the surprising vestiture of a political candidate, let me translate each for you and your readers.

1. Conviction. Mike is convicted about the human life and marriage amendments, about the Fair Tax, about the necessity of a proven government CEO in the white house, about the integration of issues at the decision-making table. Because he truly believes all these things regardless of how the winds of media and money blow, he stays around to speak up for them when no one else will do so.

2. Devotion to public service. Mike has a proven record answering a mandate from the population of a state. Namely, Arkansas. Four times. Twice as lieutenant governor and twice as governor. When Mike hears a call to serve, that adds fuel to the engine of his convictions and Mike campaigns; the people vote; Mike wins; and Mike turns things around. Then it happens again. Mike has over two million (and counting) constituents who believe in his convictions and who are demanding that he serve. Quite simply, he cares about those who want him to serve.

3. Faith. I know this is incomprehensible to those who don't recognize the Christian God, or any Higher Power, as reality. But Mike actually believes this contest could still turn around, despite the 'math'.   This is not mere fantasy, as many experienced believers in a living God will testify. Mike has experienced, many times, his faith turning into reality despite the skeptics. In fact, there has never been an election Mike was "supposed" to win.  But you don't even have to believe in God to admit and recognize that faith has power. Underdogs win. Upsets happen. And many times they happen in favor of those who simply have….faith.

But much of this is totally foreign to the world-view and experience of beltway pundits and New England political interests. So they have to keep asking the same question over and over: "Why is he staying in the race?"   Just keep asking that, while Mike, under conviction, keeps serving and believing.

One day you'll be interviewing President Mike Huckabee…and the question then will be, "How did this happen?"
Donna T

There is quite a difference between Mike Huckabee and the "normal" politician. People can't seem to understand it when a politician honors his word to his supporters. "My dad used to say, 'The only thing a poor man has is his word. It's the only thing nobody can take from you." Mike Huckabee said in his book, "Character Makes a Difference." Maybe that's why he's so different. The "normal" rich candidates don't see the necessity of being true to one's word.

"We the people" like having a candidate that shares our views because he is one of us. He knows what it's like to actually have to WORK for his living. Candidates that are on the taxpayers' payroll should be doing their jobs or forfeit their pay when they're not. NONE of the other candidates are as conservative on the issues as Huckabee. He is the only candidate that is both against embryonic stem cell research and for the pro-life and marriage amendments to the Constitution. He is strong on the individual's right to bear arms. He is pro-military (check out his Veteran's Bill of Rights under the issues at mikehuckabee.com) He is for securing our borders and against amnesty. He has been the most fiscally conservative of any of the candidates in campaigning. He is the ONLY candidate with political executive experience. Mike Huckabee needs to stay in the race unless McCain gets 1191 delegates. Let all Americans have a voice by voting. "We the people" should be allowed that much.
http://i-like-mike-huckabee.blogspot.com Theresa M

It's amazing how perplexed with fear McCain, the media, the old school GOP and even some Americans are by actual authenticity when it appears. Having so very little experience with authenticity in our society, our relationships, our media - and especially in the political arena – the average reaction to Huckabee's authenticity and depth of character, honesty and integrity is to look for an alterior motive, an undisclosed strategy, a secret passage to hidden agendas. When in reality the answer is that Mike Huckabee is simply participating in the American democratic process the way it is meant to be done.

To people who are used to deception, lies, half-truths, back-stabbing, one day here, the next day gone, and "oh by the way I changed my mind from yesterday," game-playing, the authentic, integrity-filled, promise-keeper Mike Huckabee poses a huge challenge to our current cultural and political PARADIGM, which is based on just the opposite.

How can you identify those people who are so disconnected from their own authentic self, their own inner strength? They are the ones who try to guess at Mike Huckabee's agenda, rather than believe the actual consistent statements that he has made over and over.

And, by the way Phil, you have misrepresented his statement - one of his reasons for finishing the race is for the Rest of America's VOICE to be heard, not his own. But, your Freudian slip, which is the same as those of the Good Ole Boy GOP, is indicative of the current malaise of American society and politics - you just assume it's about his ego, rather than his stated purpose – to serve the American people, to honor his commitment to the American people, and to use his best efforts to do what he thinks is best for America – to lead the US as its 44th President.

And, this GOP primary is also indicative of the short-term memory and attention span of our culture and politics. The purpose of the primary is to contest each other. The original purpose of the Convention is to contest each other, and therein reach a nominee conclusion. In trying to avoid the Contest and thus the risk, the GOP is exercising the same fatal flaw as the Dem's who would have American's avoid personal responsibility by obviating risk. The GOP & the media are trying to convince Americans that it's a zero-sum gain of butter v. guns (i.e. primary v national campaign), when in reality just the opposite is true. However, if the GOP were to expose the truth that a 2 man GOP primary race actually gives McCain more practice now in communicating, debating, and connecting with the American people before his supposed nomination and his supposed Presidential victory, then that would mean that McCain (& now the GOP big-wigs) would have to accept a RISK – and they don't want to do that because they fear losing. They want to jump ship now – the "ship" of the American democratic process.

It's not about "the good of the Party" – there is no "good of the Party" if there is no "good of America." And America is torn down, not raised up, by the childish manipulation games of McCain & the GOP to avoid the American Way of diligence, hard work, effort – and yes, RISK.

And still, allow me to reiterate the obvious Phil, it's about connecting with All Americans and winning the GOP nomination at a Contested Convention. Huckabee may win on the VERY FIRST VOTE at the Convention – especially after he gives his down-to-Earth eloquent speech (remember the wisdom of his Reagan endorsement speech that concluded the Reagan Library debate) and McCain gives his watching-paint-dry-is-better-than-this monologue. Or, like Abe Lincoln, he may win on the 3rd ballot. Why does Huckabee want to win at the Convention? Because he believes that he is the best man to:

1. Beat the Democrats in the National Election

2. Lead the United States of America for the Next 4 Years as the 44th POTUS

I agree with Huckabee on these 2 points. And so do millions of others. And if the childish, passive-aggressive manipulation tactics ended, and McCain, the GOP and the media sent a message to Americans that they actually REALLY DO VALUE the opinion of Americans, we would find that millions more Americans would speak up and say that they too find Huckabee's wisdom, authenticity, commitment, and character refreshing, necessary and valuable for Our Great Nation, and that they want it to lead us for the next 4 years.

Our Society is paralyzed by fear and confusion when presented by the very real authenticity of Mike Huckabee. And, McCain, the GOP & the media seek to take advantage of that state of shock by telling Americans, as the Wizard of Oz did, "don't look at that man behind the curtain," just focus on your fear – your fear that the authenticity and character can not possibly be real, and that you will be disappointed – just as all of us, and all the others have been. But Dorothy overcame her fear, and so the American people are overcoming theirs – even while McCain, the GOP & the media look on in disbelief.

[BTW, to Phil & readers, not only am I not an evangelical, I have a spirituality more in alignment with the concept of all of that New Age "Divine Source" stuff that Dyer, Williamson, etc. speak/write of. I don't agree w/Huckabee on the "family values" issues, but I do on every other issue. I've never been very interested in politics - just US history, never supported, campaigned for or donated to a candidate, nor was I ever a registered anything before this election. I didn't even know Huckabee's name until I half-watched a Fall 07 debate with my husband, and Huckabee mentioned the FairTax concept - and I said, "Who was that guy?"]

American's can do more than just settle this year – they can choose THE BEST man for the 44th President of the US. Allow the process to work.

Want to read more about what I think on this topic & why, go to my blog at i-like-mike-huckabee.blogspot.com.
Bart Breen

I have no problem with Mike Huckabee staying in the race. It's his right and I'm glad he has passionate supporters.

Mike Huckabee is not however a new quantity to be examined. He was the governor of Arkansas and in that role he was like any other politician. He won some battles. He lost some. He has some skeletons in his closet.

What's happening now, as best I can see, is that he's been caught up on the upswing of a strong portion of the Republican Party and particularly the evangelical core that at this time sees him as the only alternative to John McCain. The concern about McCain, may be clouding peoples view of Huckabee in my opinion, but be that as it may, he is certainly within his rights to run.

I'm a Republican. I've been part of the religious right movement in the states for as long as I've been here an able to vote. I immigrated here from Canada.

I'm coming to the conclusion that the idea of evangelical Christians tying themselves to one particular party is not particularly wise. What has is accomplished? Has Rowe vs Wade been overturned? Has prayer in school been accomplished? Is the Republican Party always correct on social issues? What is the value of eliminating social programs as outside the proper role of government if the Church doesn't step in and assume the role it should? Is any war a good war? Is religion tied to Patriotism always a good mix?

I think we may be seeing the beginning of the end of the love affair between the Republican Party and evangelical conservatives and frankly, I think it may be a good thing.

Maybe this whole situation with Huckabee will be part of what wakes Christians up.
Del & Leslie McMillan

It's amazing that so many pundits miss the obvious. Governor Huckabee's candidacy (and in fact his entire public life since he committed himself to the Lord as a teen) is not about self, it has always been about a sacrificial calling to a higher purpose. If the cynics can't understand what his supporters recognize, that's sad. We are principle-driven, character-concerned, committed to foundational truths, and we know that Governor Huckabee is, too. The politics of the moment or the policy du jour are not the most important considerations for us. Unfortunately, it seems they are the most important factors for the powers that be. Now, rather than allowing us to vote our principles state by state, they are trying to stifle our voice and our choice. We really believe that this can go all the way to the convention before someone acquires 1191 locked-in delegates. But we are being told instead to sit down, be quiet and settle for a poor, shopworn, unreliable imitation of the real thing (for the good of the party, of course). That's the mentality of corruption and control that destroys and repels, rather than builds and attracts. With the wrong foundation, a stack of big-name endorsements reaching as high as the sky is no more impressive to us than the Tower of Babel. Governor Huckabee's commitment to persevere is exactly what we all hope, expect and pray for him, because he is the messenger with the message that we know to be true.
Bart Breen

I'll take your word for it.

I have no problem with Huckabee running until it's decided. It's his right and if there are evangelical conservatives who believe that the only candidate they want and will vote for is their own, then I guess we may as well practise saying President Obama or President Clinton (again).

The contest is still open for the time being.

I think there may be some surprises when it's all said and done as to what Huckabee will or will not settle for.
BonsaiBob99

Greetings again Bart;

You said: The contest is still open.

I hope so, considering it is a race for the candidacy for the President of the US and currently the GOP nomination by delegate vote through the electoral college. At this point in time, no one has won that position. John McCain, Mike Huckabee or John Paul. Between Mike and John there is no forgone conclusion yet. It takes 1191 delegates to make and automatic winner. The vote is still out on that yet.

What Mike will settle for is at best a guess on your part with no real information to support the statement.

I cannot understand why everyone wants to think that when you compete to win something, that at some point, because someone says you should quit, that you should short sight your goal for something less than what you started out to achieve in the first place. All I know and hear is Mike is Running for the presidency of the U.S. and that goes beyond the GOP convention, Hillary, Obama, period. All or nothing. The best winners give it their all and the supporters of Mike back him with the same attitude. All the way. Tenacious, undaunted with a lets make war kind of attitude. Go read the blogs on his website. http://www.MikeHuckabee.com .
Polly A

I agree with Melissa Darnall. ck out these clips of Huckabee trying to pick up newspaper endorsements in WI. The absolute best site for learning what he believes and why he's staying in it.

http://video.ap.org/v/Legacy.aspx?partner=en-ap&t=m1202927630347&ns=WIMIL_Gallery&p=mike_huckabee&f=WIMIL
Linda Roberson

Phil - The above comments should dispel any misconceived ideas about why Gov. Huckabee is still in the race. The only thing I would like to add is the media continues to state Mike's base are Evangelical Christians. Well, we've got news for you. It consists of people of all faiths including Evangelicals, Catholics, Mormons, Jewish, Agnostics, Atheists, etc. His base also consists of Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. His message is one of hope, values, and integrity that crosses ALL political and religious boundaries. His record proves he says what he means and means what he says and we know he will get the job done.
Beth

Sir:

Governor Huckabee's campaign is American grassroots politics at its very finest. Those of us who support his candidacy have worked long and hard, and we have asked our candidate to remain in this race in order to make our voices heard.

We are tired of "politics as usual", and the dictates of the GOP brass. We are sickened by the insincerity of politicians like Mitt Romney, who have denounced McCain repeatedly only to embrace him in order to further their political futures.

Mike Huckabee is the only candidate with a tough stand on illegal immigration (and a thorough plan to address it), the candidate who stands for Second Amendment rights, the candidate who believes in American sovereignty, who believes in the sanctity of life, who has an excellent plan to rejuvenate this country's economy…and who never flip-flops on his principles. He's also the only one with true executive experience, as opposed to years of legislative experience as a Washington insider.

There are millions of people who have not yet voted for their choice for GOP candidate for the presidency of the United States of America. Is ours not a country that will allow all to be heard?
Sarah

Mike Huckabee has every right to stay in the race. If this were an NBA championship playoff series and Mr. Huckabee had one win to Mr. McCain's three, no one would be calling for him to quit. Instead, people would be rallying behind him and urging him to stay focused and play hard 'til the final buzzer. This race is far from over. Mr. McCain does have an advantage at the moment, but it is not an insurmountable one. Mr. Huckabee can win at the convention. All he needs is your vote. For more information about him, please check out http://www.mikehuckabee.com.
The Roberts

My family personally endorses Governor Mike Huckabee as he is the only candidate who is promoting the Human Life Amendment and is 100% pro-life. He is the only candidate who is for the Traditional Marriage Amendment. He is the only candidate who is for the Fair Tax plan, to eliminate the current taxation system and provide families with their full income and eliminate irrelevant taxes. He is the only candidate to sign a No Amnesty pledge and to secure the borders. Governor Huckabee supports our military and our war against Islamo-facist. He will not end the war for political expediency nor will he compromise the valor and integrity of General Pretraus and our troops. He believes we are to strengthen our military by increasing the military budget to a minimum of 6% GDP as President Reagan did in the 1980's. He is pro-Second Amendment, insuring the people the right to keep and bear arms. I firmly believe that Mike Huckabee is the only candidate who strives to abide by the Constitution and the Founding Fathers 100%, to advocate for the rights of the unborn children 100% first and foremost, and to uphold the preservation of faith, family, and values! This man is a strong leader and a true man of integrity. He is respectable, confident, compassionate, strong, and wise. His communication skills are impeccable, and he has an incredible gift of leading, teaching, and directing. He is extremely intelligent and has phenomenal leadership skills and executive ability. His personality is full of humor, wisdom, and joy, and he is highly personable, likeable, and diplomatic. He believes wholeheartedly in the Founding Father's pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness, and adheres to the truth that all humans are created equal, regardless of gender, race, creed, doctrine, etc. He believes in respecting the rights of all people, and that everyone's voice should be heard. He is no respecter of persons and leads an upright life with an honest, genuine, and solid character, and he is a man of honor, integrity, character, wisdom, truth, compassion, faith, and hope! This is a man that our family supports 100%!! All the way to the convention! Without faith, it is impossible to please God. And unto Abraham was his faith credited to him as rightesouness. Huckabee does not place his faith in self, nor his ego, but places his faith in our BIG God, as do the rest of us. It is not Huckabee's ego that drives him, but His BIG God! Glory to God! May the Lord "shed His grace on Thee (Amercia)" once again and restore her beauty! God's heart is for the abolition of abortion, just as it was for the abolition of slavery in Lincoln's day, and Mike is the one who is advocating for this and making it his primary agenda. Let us stay with the heartbeat of God. May Thine will be done on earth as it is in heaven!
R.D.

I agree with what alot of the other posters have said here, so I don't want to re-hash it all in detail… I believe Gov. Huckabee is a humble man of integrity who has a real sense of duty to his country.

I think that it is VERY good for the Republican party to have a continued battle between candidates- particularly a civil one, such as the one between Sen. McCain and Gov. Huckabee.

Sen. Clinton and Sen. Obama are going to get plenty of media coverage, and without Gov. Huckabee challenging Sen. McCain, there would be no real reason to cover the GOP race.

When you're trying to win an election, air time/name recognition/etc. is extremely important. So if the Republicans want to win in November, they need AIR TIME.

Gov. Huckabee is doing the Republican party a favor by continuing to attract media coverage. If they would allow him to win the nomination, he would do them a REAL favor by solidifying a chunk of voters that are very hesitant about voting for McCain.

Gov. Huckabee is the only candidate in the race that I trust. His record backs up his stated intentions. I hope and pray he will be our next President.
mauricio belgrano

This is an email copy I got early this morning about the delegate counts. I am not so sure as to what this blog is completely about. But, just in case, people are still wondering why Huckabee is in the race, read below: (this may help clarify a few points here)

"Some are it again on this site, saying that McCain will be the nominee…..

I wish you people understood the delegate process and stop folding like a house of cards…..if that were the case, don't you think RP would have quit by now?

Do some research!!!!

When McCain reaches 1191 as declared by the MSM, that will really not be the case. He is not guaranteed all of those delegates.

HE MUST WIN THE 1191 DELEGATES AT THE CONVENTION!!!!

DID YOU GET THAT!!!!

HE DOES NOT WIN THE DELEGATES DURING THE PRIMARIES!!!
Bound or pledged delegates are committed to the winner of the primary to vote for that candidate in the first round.

Many states have yet to pick delegates. Of those that have, RP has very high delegate counts even though he hasn't won a single primary. How? Well people just simply apply. More of RP supporters are willing to become delegates than McCaine supporters…..Ask some here that have become RP delegates.

The primaries and caucases are nothing more than window dressing. Delegates are not chosen the day of the primary/caucas.

The only thing the primaries/caucases do is commit the BOUND/PLEDGED delegates to the winner either by winner take all or proportioned out.

At the convention, there will be bound.pledged and unbound/unpledged delegates. NOT ALL DELEGATES FOR EACH STATE ARE BOUND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The unbound/unpledged can vote for anyone!!!!!

At the convention, if McInsane does not get 51% of the delegate vote on the first round, then they vote again. In the next round, delegates can vote for whomever they want.

Read and learn please!!!!! and spread the word to everyone you can.

.
.
According to the sight below, here are the bound and unbound totals as of today…..McCain has 796 bound and 18 unbound del egates.

http://www.thegreenpapers…

Now lets do some math:
McCain needs 395 bound delegates to reach 1191

Of the remaining states:

texas – 137 bound and 3 unbound
ohio – 88 UNBOUND
South Dakota – 24 bound and 3 unbound
wisconsin – 37 bound and 3 unbound
vermont – 17 bound
idaho – 26 bound and 6 unbound
hawaii – 20 bound
pennsylvannia – 74 UNBOUND
oregon – 27 bound and 3 unbound
puerto rico – 20 bound and 3 unbound
north carolina – 69 bound
indianna – 27 bound and 30 UNBOUND
kentucky – 45 bound
mississippi – 36 bound and 3 unbound
RI – 17 bound and 3 unbound
nebraska – 30 bound and 3 unbound
new mexico – 29 bound and 3 unbound

.
There are 561 bound delegates left of which Mr. McCain must win 71% of to reach 1191…..now when was the last time he won with 71% of the vote?

Now Huck will probably win nebraska, kentucky , miss, and SD…….if this happens, then McCain would have to win just about every remaining delegate, and that is not likely to happen.

Basically, McCain would almost have to run the board of the other states to win……not likely.

.
.
Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe Vermont is the only winner take all state remaining, so even if McCain wins a state, he does not get all of the bound delegates.

.
.
THE MSM IS LUMPING BOTH BOUND AND UNBOUND IN THEIR TOTALS…….VERY MISLEADING"

Phil Cooke

NEXT SPEAKING EVENT:

The Huckabee Strategy Question

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