Can McCain Beat Clinton?

[Smid]

I think McCain brings into play New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Ohio, although may have trouble in Florida - with all the NYers who've retired down to there.

[Smid]

Some are suggesting that McCain is too moderate to draw out the Republican base. That might be so in the case of pretty much any Democrat candidate other than Clinton. The Republican base despises Clinton enough that they'll be out in force rain, hail or shine to vote against her, and a moderate like McCain may be enough to draw out independents and swinging voters.

[Smid]

If McCain runs against Hillary he will win Ohio easily and thus the election.

Even if we assume the first part is correct, the second doesn't have to be:

I rather think that McCain would win his neighboring soutwest state of New Mexico.

Possibly Oregon with a fairly good shot at Wisconsin as well.

I think also a pretty good shot in New Hampshire - judging from media reports, he's like a rock star up there.

[Smid]

Florida I can see going for Clinton. A lot of older retired women from New York down there... yeah, I can see Florida going for her.