GraniteGrok

Like many in New Hampshire, I have been turning and twisting in trying to figure out who my precious vote will go to.  In the last years, having become a more politically aware observer of the scene, I do consider my vote precious, a right, and a responsibility to be used well.

I believe that the Republicans have candidates within the current crop that all would make good presidents. As I pointed out here, I was close to choosing one of the main three: Rudy, McCain, and Fred were my winnowed choices. 

Each has their low points: 

Rudy - not exactly a social conservative - he has held positions that run counter to my own beliefs.  Abortion, gun control, illegal immigrant status (although he will secure the border) - my #2 issue.  There are things that I would have to overlook.

McCain - well, as a conservative, one only has to mention McCain-Feingold.  Add to that his support for the ill-fated comprehensive immigration bill this past summer (which I fought tooth and nail).  There are others that could be listed that, over the years, have been infuriating. 

Fred - absolutely wasted the pent up demand for his campaign.  At first, it was THE "uncampaign" - it turned out at the beginning of his campaign was "where'd it go - does he really want to run"?  And another actor to boot? 

However, each have their highs that had them above the rest of the Republican crowd (and WAY better than the Democrats!):

Rudy - his 12 Committments that set up an objective way to measure his promise, he has known verifiable executive ability both in running one of the largest governments in the world in one of the most difficult times in our country's history.  he has the New Yorker attitude to be the debater and communicator that President Bush has not been during this time of war.

McCain - True to his ideals, a certified American hero who has already sacrificed much for his country, he is ready on Day One to be Commander-in-Chief (as Doug points out).  Of all of the issues that I hold important, fighting Islamofascism (militarily, politically, and culturally) is the most important - and he will fight it, and not retreat in dishonor.  In this regard, he is the real deal.

Fred - he has put out more information and in more detail on more issues than anyone else.  He has a record.  While many have derided his laconic style as lazy, I see it as a more studied, more serious contemplation of the issues and a "I haven't always wanted to be President" that others (er, John Kerry perhaps?) have shown.  More of a man called rather than a man possessed.

Fred comes closest to my ideals as a conservative.  While I may have decided to use my vote to vote AGAINST someone, I have decided, even if he does not win here in NH, to vote FOR someone. 

And in this NH primary,  I ask that you carefully consider the issues, the stances, and the historical context, and please vote for Senator Thompson - FRED!