McCain faces a unique and challenging problem as he has suddenly become the Republican frontrunner.
If he will have any chance in November he'll need enthusiastic conservative support. His pick for Vice President won't accomplish that.
He can continue to win victories on the backs of moderates and independents or he can attempt to win over conservative who don't trust him.
If he wins in a divisive primary he'll have the nomination of a fatally weakened party.
So he needs to expand his appeal now while conservatives are still listening and open to persuasion.
McCain can improve his position in a few simple ways:
- 1) Promise that he'll introduce no immigration reform until the border is secured and workplace rules are enforced.
2) Appeal to social conservatives by explaining why the sanctity of life and the sanctity of marriage are important to him.
3) Attack the Democrats on something besides the war or earmarks.
4) Speak about the need to revitalize our economy (develop an economic plan, pronto)
Lastly he needs to pick a Vice President that unifies the party and balances McCain weaknesses (age, lack of economic expertise). I'd think his best option would be a younger Republican Governor.