Hi all, sorry I have not yet posted. Actually tried the other day but had some kind of issue with the site so I couldn't. I am trying again!

First of all, want to say I am honored to be an Editor here. I have not yet had time to devote to posting, but look to spend more time over the course of the fall. For those who dont know my background, I am extensively involved in Kansas politics and have even been a candidate myself. Am still a Fred Thompson supporter but am following Fred in supporting our nominee, John McCain.

Second of all, as I see it, I think McCain's choice for Vice President is extremely important, and would love to see some focus on this site towards that end. I think McCain should focus on a small list of potential running mates. Here are my suggestions:

Fred Thompson -- I know there is the age concern, but I think that could be overcome. I think Fred would bring the conservative base along with potentially competitive southern states like Tennessee, Arkansas, North Carolina, and Louisiana. Fred is an excellent candidate ffrom both an electoral map and idelogical standpoint, helping McCain shore up 270 while also balancing the ticket with a strong conservative. Funny thing, I'd love to see Fred back in the movies but would enjoy him even more as VP. I think his trust level with McCain would also give Fred some signficant impact too. McCain/Thompson would be a stature ticket vs. Obama/Hillary.

Sarah Palin -- Darkhorse candidate and my second favorite. I think our party should give serious consideration to her being the next in line after McCain (win or lose). Attractive, conservative, pro-life and independent, she is a rising star and could prove to be a powerful force with soccer moms and independent voters. An authentically interesting woman, I think the media would love telling her story and that the nation would find her very appealing both substantively and in terms of personality.

Mitt Romney -- Wouldn't be a terrible choice particularly in the light of the economy, which will be the issue this fall. The only problem is that i dont think Mitt is all that trusted yet by conservatives and isn't that popular of a candidate, shown by how much money he spent for no result. I think Mitt should be GOP National Chairman.

Mark Sanford -- Since Jeb is not really a possiblity, Mark Sanford represents the best of the governor choices outside of Sarah Palin. Conservative, tough, and independent, Sanford would help inspire conservatives and solidify the south. Sanford would be a "safe choice".

Condi Rice -- She is the only moderate who could make it, as a result of her foreign policy stature. A truly impressive woman. But, her choice risks McCain being "Bush III" and that is why I dont think he'll pick her. I do hope her role in gov't isn't done though. She should be a candidate at some point. Maybe Governor of CA? Senator?

JC Watts -- Kind of a darkhorse candidate, but I think JC would inspire conservatives and be a great balance to McCain ideology, speaking ability, and appeal. I would like to see JC go for the Senate in OK though, or maybe Gov.

Who I wouldnt pick:

Tim Pawlenty -- Wouldn't carry his state, not that great of candidate. Have seen him on TV and not impressed. Prone to big government too.

Mike Huckabee -- Disaster candidate of biblical proportions. Terrible record as Governor and the only group he gets is the evangelicals, who McCain could get through a better candidate. I am just not a fan of Huckabee.

Tom Ridge -- ZZZZZzzzzz.

Joe Lieberman -- pick a Republican, John. Maybe Joe can be in his administration, though.