The nomination of Hillary would energize Republicans to a frenzy. Conservative donors would give twice what they would if some other D were nominated. The fundamental Christians would gladly vote for Satan before Hillary, crowding each other out to be first.

McCain himself is properly perceived as a good guy, and would attract votes and all that money. His political stands on issues, continuing and expanding war while discontinuing and shrinking social matters, would be overlooked by many Ds who vote for the "good guy". We'd have the same programs as Bush without the smirk.

Besides, McCain is far more personable than Hillary. Who wants to watch and listen to Hillary and Bill for the 5 years until the term is over? No one.

I believe that Hillary's appeal is wider than deep, and that without the perception of her inevitability it will shrink considerably. The MoveOn endorsement is an example.

Arf