Thune has been pretty successful in South Dakota politics, serving three terms in the House and is probably going to win re-election in the Senate with ease this year. He has charm, charisma and he's family-oriented.
For those of you that see my posts, you know I'm a moderate, "RINO" I suppose. That being said, I would strongly support Thune for 2012.
1) He comes from an outside state, SD, which could serve as an advantage, similar to Carter (GA) in 1976.
2) He has the conservative establishment behind him
3) He doesn't come across as one of those ignorant types. For example, he's said that while he is strongly pro life and against gay marriage, he understands and RESPECTS the other side's opinion. The tolerance factor I like.
4) He's a very good speaker and doesn't make gaffes.
5) From what I read, his record is clean. There is no dirty work on him, which is an advantage.
6) His location in the Plains/Midwest could be an advantage to the GOP, which is rtying to still break into the upper midwest (although we got IA back in 2004
7) He's got charisma.
While the cupboard appears bare, I think this is our man for 2012, or maybe 2016, if he feels 2012 becomes unwinnable depending on the economy in the next two years.
I actually did a project on a fake 2012 election with Thune as the GOP nominee. I agree with all of your reasons. Your analysis is spot on.
