Dems would find him an acceptable alternative to Hillary, which is why they push him. The problem with Rudy is that he does not energize the conservative base, which is why the MSM love him.
The election will be won or lost on the basis of which candidate will generate enough enthusiasm to get people to go to the polls on Election day. The prospect of Pres Hillary will get conservatives in the mood to go out and vote, but not if they do not perceive the Republican candidate as being much of an improvement
That's true. That's why a possible third party candidate is an inviting picture.
I think the Dems push him for the same reason. I don't they'd find him acceptable. Although they like his previous anti-RKBA efforts and pro-abortion stand, he's too anti-criminal and MUCH too strong on the War on Terror. They are the party of surrender, and treason, have been since the 60s.