Rudy Giuliani '08

During a period where Republicans have become largely unpopular with the public due to the Bush administrations handling of the war in Iraq and constant scandal plaguing the cabinet, Rudy Giuliani may be the ticket to another GOP victory in 2008. While Mr. Giuliani is a Republican he is a moderate Republican with many liberal social views.

Rudy supports gay civil unions (although he does not favor gay marriages), he generally is pro-choice and he supports the second amendment right to bear arms. Although these stands are not clear cut and come with several stipulations. First, he explicitly says on his website www.joinrudy2008.com that "marriage is between a man and a women and he does not - and has never - supported gay marriage." In regards to abortion he supports limitations on abortion such as banning partial birth abortions and he supports parental notification of underage women seeking abortions. Although, interestingly, he does support partial birth abortions when it risks the health of the mother. This is interesting due to the fact that the Supreme Court just barley recently upheld banning partial birth abortions, even when it effects the mothers health.

Since abortion and gay marriage are two very vital social issues that Republican voters support, it is questionable how Rudy Giuliani will even attempt to run for president. His claim that he will support Republican judges, despite his views, is one way he seems to be assuaging these fears. Since Giuliani once had to sway the largely liberal New York City with his liberal social views to be elected mayor it is questioned how he would reconcile his former platform with these new views. Giuliani largely defends these differences by claiming that what works for New York City is not applicable to the entire nation. (Which is a reasonable claim). This is particularly viable when it comes to his claim of supporting the right to bear arms while largely appearing pro-gun control during his tenure as mayor.

Another issue which Rudy himself has brought to light is his current wife Judith. Judith is an RN and has both a medical and scientific background, and Rudy totes her as the "2 for 1" deal as did Bill for Hillary during his first election. He has even gone as far to say that his wife will be sitting in during all cabinet meetings. Many Americans may not feel comfortable with the first lady having such a "hands-on" approach to her role. This may also bring to light that fact that this is not Rudy's first wife.

While Rudy is known worldwide for his support and leadership post 9/11 many people do not know where he stands on the issues and many people fear he will lose his support when his stand on the issues in conjunction with his personal "dirty laundry" is aired. While there is little fear whether or not he can financially pursue the role of President it will be interesting to see if he can retain the support of his GOP supporters and land a real chance to be the next president.