Great column, CBB. I found the attacks on you for daring to write this objective analysis to be hilarious.
This column reminds me of this one:
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/939395/posts
That analysis turned out to be deadly accurate.
Rudy is quite simply the only popular Republican in the country, the only candidate with strong support in every region, the only candidate who appeals to members of both parties and independents, and the one with the most name recognition (except for Bill's WINO).
In addition, Republican candidates who lead early get the nomination -- unlike on the 'rat side. Unless Rudy screws it up, which I don't expect, he'll get the nomination.
Rudy also is helped by the fact that the other three main candidates have obvious flaws, and the rest are a bunch of mini-mees. Particularly amusing are the members of the "Jaeger Battalion" -- who are no doubt passionate in their support but lack the numbers to have a realistic shot at victory.
I see the SC Primary as key. Rudy has a strong organization down there, and his selection to speak to graduates of The Citadel is IMHO hugh and series! That indicated support from the movers and shakers of the Palmetto State. If Rudy wins SC, I don't see how anyone could stop him from the nomination.
If it is Rudy v. Hillary that will be the biggest NY battle since Ali-Frazier I.