Candidates Blog

From pro-Romney site MyManMitt.com:

Mitt Romney referenced the 1976 Republican National Convention when talking at CPAC about his supporters wish that he continue on. He then went on to discuss how 2008 is different than 1976 because we are at war.

Following up on Beth’s post below, I wanted to talk about this reference. Romney drew a parallel, and then let the impression it conjures resonate. This allows us to think about what it means and draw our own conclusions.

What is the parallel? In 1976, the Republican convention pitted incumbent Gerald Ford against California Governor Ronald Reagan. In many ways, Ford represented the Washington establishment and more importantly, he represented the continuation of Richard Nixon’s presidency to many who wanted change.

In 2008, there will be some similar dynamics. Critics of George Bush 43 have attempted to paint him as Nixonian. The democrats will attempt to pigeonhole McCain as merely a continuation of Bush’s policies. Many people do want change.

Ronald Reagan nearly captured the nomination in 1976. But he fell short. President Ford invited Reagan to speak to the convention. When he arose, he zeroed in on the singular most important topic on his mind; the threat of nuclear destruction.

In explaining why he was stepping aside, Romney zeroed in on the biggest threat we face as well; the threat of attack from terrorists.

Romney’s reception at CPAC eclipsed John McCain’s in many ways, just as Reagan’s reception exceeded President Ford’s. Like Reagan, Romney’s speech left many Republicans wondering whether they had chosen the right person.

Our country has problems. I hope we can overcome them. If there was ever a leader to fix problems in Washington, it is Mitt Romney. Like Romney though, I realize we are facing a major threat to our existence. After much internal struggle, I am throwing my support behind John McCain. I will vote for him.

Many, many readers have emailed us saying they would not vote for McCain. I think that may be shortsighted. I understand the impulse. There is certain pleasure to be derived from denying someone who spited the party so many times. I really want the border problem fixed and I don’t think McCain has the desire to get the job done. I have serious concerns about the economy. McCain will not be able to use the bully pulpit as effectively as Romney could have on economic matters. Nevertheless, I prefer McCain beat either of the Democrats.

If for some reason McCain doesn’t win, I will be prepared to help Romney win in 2012. I know Romney will be ready to lead, just as Reagan was after the disastrous Carter years.