I understand what you are saying and do agree; however,the media ratings, good or bad, decide who we see plastered across our TV's.
We would never know who else stood up to the Left, as they are not ratings boosters-which is determined by the media and also PR people who also work for the politicians.
You have to be attractive to win over the superficial voter--JFK and Jackie set those standards. JFK flashed his boyish smile and won hearts; as by 1960 TV sets were in the majority of homes. While before when radio and newspapers were how one got their nightly news, Dewey could easily challenge Roosevelt's age, but did not mention the fact that he used a wheelchair. You can no longer be or appear too old, as old ideas are considered "no change", "same old"..."how we got where we are today".
It's all image. Today, everyone has to have written a book about their life in some manner. 24/7 media spotlight sells "a product" that makes money for the corporation.
The media will decide who the candidates will be--so of course you would ask the question--who else is out there?
I dunno--but has to be someone out of 310,537,899 [05:49 UTC (EST+5) Dec 28, 2010] million people in this country. I think the media flies to Palin first in hopes she will be too quick to endorse or not endorse a candidate or bill before all the vetting is done--to trip her up. And she bites every time.
But you may be right--perhaps she is the best candidate [we know of] for the job. We do have Governor Rick Perry, who is also promoting his book. He is up close and personal with securing the borders. Chris Christie who has no problem saying it straight up, but he's still a newly wed. At least, Gov.Christie hasn't made time to write a book. That's a plus!!
> Chris Christie who has no problem saying it straight up, but he’s still a newly wed.
You contradict yourself. Christie could not pass the media test of being “attractive”. His obesity would be his downfall if we agree with your premise.
Christie also is an east-coast republican and not very conservative. Yes, he has mouthed off against the unions but other than that, what has he accomplished?
Some of his positions and statements have caused me concern. I would put him in the same category as a Scott Brown for example.