What is your take on this comment regarding the Republican primary in 2008?

[Notre Dame rules!]

It's a little different now than it once was.  A candidate who spends all of his time in NH can win that primary (McCain comes to mind), but do poorly everwhere else since they put all their hopes on the media glow following a NH win, while neglecting a nationwide organization. 

However, a candidate like Pataki would almost have to win NH in order to have any momentum whatsoever going into the South.   Hagel, a moderate who likes to cross swords with his own party, would need wins in IA and NH to fuel his campaign in the Midwest and Northeast, since the South would more than likely turn its back on him.

[Notre Dame rules!]

If both McCain and Rudy run, they'll likely split the moderates of the GOP leaving the conservative darkhorse to place either 1st or 2nd.  That's my hope!

[Notre Dame rules!]

Frist needs to content himself to running for Gov of TN.  He isn't presidential material.

[Notre Dame rules!]

Ford is very, very bright.  Having talked to him on several occasions, I can testify that he is also a very likable guy, unlike his father and his uncle.  It is his family  connections that will most hurt him in any race for the Senate.  Outside of Memphis, his family name is far more of a hindrance than a help. 

Ford's chances would be substantially better if he ran as a Republican.

Personally, I'd like to see former Congressman Ed Bryant win the seat.  I campaigned for Bryant in his primary run against Lamar Alexander, and would be very willing to do so again.