Handicapping Rudy Giuliani

Pros
1. Name Recognition - "America's Mayor" gained worldwide notoriety during the September 11 attacks. During his run for the presidency, he solves half the problem when campaigning - getting your name out there.

2. Strong Leadership Image - His performance was exceptional during the days following 9/11. He came across strong and unfazed, something not easy (see Ray Nagin). People trust him to handle crises and see him as a man whom they can follow.

3. Popularity - Rudy still remains very popular and polls very high in terms of personal likability and all key categories regarding personal and professional impressions.

4. Electability - Because of his relatively moderate views, and his own personal popularity, Rudy could be the only Republican who can win election in the general in this political environment.


Cons
1. Liberal Views - Pro-Choice. Pro-Gay Rights. Pro-Gun Control. And this is the...Republican Primary?

2. Personal Life - Could Rudy be the flag carrier for the "party of family values?" A man who has been divorced twice, seen controversy in the mayoral house during his tenure in New York. That may fly in Manhattan Island, but will that fly in Manhattan, Kansas?

3. Electability - In the primary, issues regarding his personal life and views on abortion, gay marriage, and gun control could prove disqualifying.