Romney VP search: free-floating speculation and wish list thread

[Orion0]

Martinez to me is seeming more like a solid choice. It is difficult to say whether she would help greatly in the Midwest, but I think the overall boost with women, independents, and Latinos would benefit Romney to no end. She may lack experience nationally, but has a recognizably strong and solid profile among her constituents.

Rice benefits in much the same way, but lacks the opportunity that Martinez has: to strongly define herself nationally. This has already been done, and while some view the Bush baggage as a hurdle easily overcome, I remain skeptical. However, the benefits/hindrances of a Rice nomination have already been well stated.

At this point I strongly believe a Portman, Pawlenty, or Jindal is just not going hard enough at the big O. They might help in a few key areas, but fail to attract big numbers across the board.

Ryan is my choice for a safe bet, but as an outsider looking in, it is becoming increasingly difficult to imagine Romney cobbling together enough states without a game changer. Sorry to those that feel otherwise, but to bank this election on a couple of states swing voters instead of a large-scale pitch to all Americans seems like a poor choice on Boston's part.