Eight years ago, I was on board the McCain campaign. Four years ago, I was on board the Anybody-But-Bush campaign. This time around, I struggle with picking a candidate. The only legitimate Republican I could see myself voting for is McCain; and, at the same time, I want someone who does not believe in the justness of the Iraq war so vehemently as McCain has from the beginning.¹

As the staunchest Iraq war supporter, I think McCain has to do more to make voters think about the consequences of America withdrawing from Iraq. I have no doubt he could repair International relations and actually help create a “Coalition.” But, he will not do it as Leader of the Free World unless he can convince the 2/3rd of Americans against the Iraq war that it is necessary.

McCain’s biggest hurdle (w.r.t. Independent/Moderate vote) is convincing the anti-Iraq War contingency that a continued presence in Iraq is the best thing for American [self] interest.

McCain just has to make Americans think about and question some of the most likely scenarios if we were to stay/leave Iraq.  It should be easy for McCain to help people understand the risks and rewards since he claims to “speak an unfiltered truth.”  And, of course, this needs to be tied into the short-term/long-term effect on the US economy and foreign imports (specifically, oil).

I think most educated Americans understand that the Middle East is a Mecca for terrorist (sorry for the intentional pun).  And, I’m not suggesting fear-mongering, gloom-and-doom stories, or Kerry-like monologues on the thousands of possibilities (because that would be pessimistic and everyone knows only a make-me-feel-good optimist can win the common vote).  But, step 1 would be to elaborate on the consequences or defeat/withdrawal listed on McCain’s official website regarding Iraq:

Defeat in the war would lead to much more violence in Iraq, greatly embolden Iran, undermine U.S. allies such as Israel, likely lead to wider conflict, result in a terrorist safe haven in the heart of the Middle East, and gravely damage U.S. credibility throughout the world.²

With the anti-war sentiment that is dominant amongst most Americans (Republican and Democrat), winning the Independent/Moderate/Anti-Bush vote is critical for a Republican to win.  Currently, the Anti-Bush Republicans have plenty of options to choose from (meaning, I don’t think they want McCain).   For this reason, I hope McCain can clarify and convince other of his position because I don’t think any other Republican candidate has a shot against the Democratic nominee – whoever that ends up being.

1. McCain interview with Meet The Press on Jan 6, 2008 [↩]
2. John McCain’s Official Website:  On The Issues – Iraq [↩]

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