CNN

I think that McCain has mostly a foreign policy agenda, and Huckabee speaks to the void in his domestic policy. Some Republicans are suffering in this economy too.

The message is that he does not have the Republican party united and he needs to listen to what Huckabee is saying and the direction that points when it comes to the voice of that 50% that wants Huckabee. He needs to compromise some on his current position and take on a new flavor. Hopefully he holds true to that idea and brings the party completely together. Anything else could be his undoing in the long term picture.
If McCain wins the nomination then Huckabee has two choices. Drop out or run as an independent. Either way the Republicans will hopefully unite behind the one that receives the necessary votes,they have in the past and for the good of the party will do the same again.

What the Republicans are saying: John, you need all the help you can get. Try Mike on the Ticket ...

That tells me that half the people do not like McCain and will vote for anything but him. In a race with only two people to chose from and not really a nickels worth of difference separates them on policy it is bound to happen. Often times logic does not prevail when it comes to an election. Emotion may take over and then anything can happen. Later, once emotion subsides the voter is stuck with what they have done but by then it is all over but the crying. Be careful what you wish for. You might just get it!

It could mean that almost half of the Republicans like to eat squirrel.

Al, Lawrence KS

It says that half the Republicans hate McCain, just like half the Democrats hate Hillary. The only problem is, unlike the Democrats where the Anti-Hillary is a viable candidate, the Anti-McCain isn't.

That McCain isn't wanted and they want Huckabee to win the nomination. Personally I really don't care about the Republicans. Because they are going to get creamed no matter who wins the nomination. George W. Bush will drag the Republicans down due to his incompetence and arrogance he has shown Congress and the American people. We the people will remember what Bush and the Republicans have done to this country tomorrow when we vote in Ohio's primary. I'm voting Democrat and always will vote Democrat. Sylvania Ohio.

Huckabee 's just waiting for Hillary to drop out ,he'll get most of her votes and the race will be on between Obama and Huckabee. May the best man win!

Terry "the hillbilly Hooser"

Jack, to me it says for him to seriously consider Huckabee as a running mate. I feel that this is the Christian voters that are sounding off as they have in the past with other candidates.chuck Indiana

It means that many of them do not believe he will be able to stay in the race until the election. He is visibly weakening as the days pass.

He is not liked!

I don`t think it matters what message it sends. McCain has the delegates, and Huckabee dosen`t. For the last few weeks Huckabee has just been a thorn in McCain`s side. It is to the point that he is just making a fool out of himself. If the polls say Clinton has 44% to Obamas 48% then everone says he is a sure thing. If the polls show 50% for McCain and 30% for Huckabee you act like McCain is supposed to give up and go home. If the republicans hate McCain as bad as you would like to make people believe, then maybe they should have voted for someone else. The same thing is going to happen to the Democrats when obama turns out to be the nominee. The dirt on him will come out in the general election and start to cover him up, then voters remorse will start to set in. Too late then. Sometimes we get what we ask for.

The message to McCain has to be that doubt has crept in and he's not favored by a large majority of his constituents.

So Jack it is ok, if Huckabee is down 600 delegates and you want him to stay in the race, but Hillary down 100 delegates you want her out of the race. Seems a little sexist. The same question should be asked about Obama...What message does it send to Obama that half of all voters want Clinton to stay in the race? Things that make you go HMMMMMMM? Go Hillary.

It sounds like a clean sweep for the Democrats in November. No one wants either McCain or Huckabee.

They are men of narrow vision, who are afraid of the future.

It tells us that McCain isn't so "conservative" as he says. Well, it's not that bad to NOT be so conservative...this day and age is not the time necessarily to be stuffy. Besides, Huckabee is so LIKEABLE!

Jack,
It says, the half that want Huckabee to stay in must not be the bigger half. Probably more like one third. If it really is half then maybe they should stop voting for McCain.

It means that the Religious Right doesn't like it when a Republican doesn't do exactly as they say. It past time to revisit the "separation of Church and State" issue again.

It sends the clear message that he will win the general. Add up all the votes cast for the candidates at the far ends of the spectrum–both right and left–and they don't come close to the number cast in the middle for candidates like McCain and Clinton. The voices calling for Huckabee are way out on the fringe, not because that is where they started, but because they failed to notice the rest of us have taken a giant step to the center having watched what happened after the last four elections. Putting liberal Democrats in Congress did not fix the problem. Putting conservative Republicans in the White House did not fix the problem. We are going to put a moderate of any stripe out there at this point because the problem is going to get fixed–one way or t'other. Now, can you please hold Ann Colter to her promise to go be a Democrat for the next four years? It would make me feel so much more at ease with my own Republican-ness if she would switch over. Thanks!

I think it shows that McCain cannot slack off or think he can steam roll the general election. Furthermore, it shows the possibility of Huckabee on McCain's ticket for Vice President. While that may not be an idea or on the agenda for either Huckabee or McCain, it is clearly a shared thought among many of the republican voters.

Bucks County, PA

I think it sends a clear and strong message that Mike Huckabee is and should be the republican choice for President of The United States. I believe Mike Huckabee has the right heart to get this country back to the same pride and resolve that our founding fathers had. There is still yet alot to be grateful for in this big bad world and I believe Mike Huckabee is someone we should all be grateful for. That he has the commitment to complete what he started. That shows the heart of a good man and a man who should be the leader of this country.
Michelle
Ft Myers FL

The message is clear – put Huckabee on your ticket as VP and reinforce your Party. They might even be able to reign in all those Republicans that are supporting Obama !

The Republicans are saying that they wish they had a better nominee to put up in November! By putting pressure on him by encouraging Huckabee, McCain will have to play ball with the Republican Party or not get their financial backing and party help.

McCain should check his voicemail, because I don't think he is getting the message.

Jack-
This sends a clear message to not just McCain but also the Republican Party that its devolution and distraction from core Republican values since the elections of Bush and Cheney have utterly fractured the party into extremists and moderates along the conservative spectrum, weakening the strength, intellect, and respect of a former underdog party(since the MAJORITY of presidents have been liberal democrats) among its own members to the point of wishing to discard the current Republican system and start over.
McCain must bridge the gap along the conservative spectrum in order to win, but more important is the need for a total overhaul of the Republican party in general, for its own survival.

I don't know about the Republican electorate as a whole but I'm guessing that Mike's staying in the race to become the "runner-up". If the beauty queen kicks the bucket before the general election then it's the runner-up that gets to wear the sash.

The message it sends is that they are playing mind games with McCain but in the end will hold their noses and vote for him. And if McCain doesn't know that's the tactic, mama Roberta will remind him at an appropriate time.

It should tell him that his base is not solid and it is going to be a long hard campaign. Being tied to President Bush and the war will make it even harder. All is not lost yet however, the Supreme Court can save him, if it's close.

Well Jack it says we really don't like you but you're all we've got.......or maybe it says we're hoping one of Huckabee's miracles really does happen, who knows what these party politicians are thinking!!!!!!!!!

The message is that only right-wing ultra religious zealots respond when asked if Huckabee wants to stay in the race.

Jack,

Clinton & Obama are so close in their beliefs, that it's hard to chose between them. McCain & Huckabee are polar opposites. The Republicans are the fractured party. That tells McCain it stinks to be him.

Jack

It says Republicans are not happy with McCain.

I would have much rather seen Romney there myself but he ran a poor campaign and in the end the politics of fear won out and here we are with McCain. Everyone is tired of the same ol same ol and that is what McCain brings. Old politics, old ideas and old results, NOTHING!

They ain't happy with the non conservative wore out old man. He is more like Hillbill than the so called conservative Republicans. They would like for his vp to be that paster Hagee. If that happens I am moving to some where that religion does not dominate the people

Jack

I think it is a shame what "conservatives" are doing to McCain. He is their best shot that they really have at staying in the oval office. They are showing their true colors, not very pretty at that. I respect John Mc Cain, though I don not agree with him on the war and will not be voting for him. The country I believe would be in a better place now if he were the President instead of the "decider" ......

A Democrat , John from Menomonee Falls, WI

oh yes, Jim Nonsensinbreener is our congressman here.. another idiot....

It sends the message you cant win and we know it .

I don't think John McCain would pay attention to any message anyone gave him. He is as intellectually insulated as President Bush: logic doesn't pertain to him.

A better question would be why does Huckabee keep collecting campaign donations when it is impossible for him to be nominated?

The message is this. Nearly half of all Republicans are convinced that McCain is not a true conservative. And that is not just correct; it is also a good thing. Hillary Clinton and John McCain work well together and see eye to eye on a number of issues, even when it comes down to the war in Iraq.

Political aparatciks fear an honest man. The party faithful fear that McCain would ethically avoid the dirty tricks campaigns of Segretti, Rove, Tobin, Attwater, etc.. They are right. If they rig this election it will be against McCain's will and without his knowledge.

John meet Mike. Mike will be your running mate as vice president. The religious right rules!

Fairfax, VA

It says that nearly one quarter of the voters in america would prefer a Theocracy to our Democracy so we can be more like Saudi Arabia or Iran or Israel. Israel, for example, has the Star of David on their nations flag. Don't we need the Christian Cross on ours?

I think your wording is wrong. Half the Republicans don't want Huckabee to stay in the race, they just don't support McCain!!!! McCain has flipflopped so many times it's difficult to know where he stands on any of the issues with the exception of his hawkish views on Iraq!!!!!

The mssage is pretty clear – LET THE VOTERS DECIDE – Do we really want another WAR monger or do we want a peace loving GOD fearing president. One who's young enoough and willing to spend time listening to what the PEOPLE want. GO MIKE HUCKABEE !

The Republicans need to wake up and look in the mirror. Everyone mentioned as McCain's VP looks just like McCain. Now is the time for the Republican Party to prove they are inclusive, next exclusive to good ole boys and more of the same.

senator mccain should think about choosing huckabee as his running mate

Huckabee aspires to get the "born again" vote, or the wing of the Republican party that justifies all of their actions (or inactions) with the idea (excuse) that it is "God's will".

I don't know what it says to John McCain but I know what it says about the American people. It's saying that we are in need of the creation of a three or even a four party system. From right to left they could be the Conservatives (MH), the Republicans (JM), the Democrats (HC) and the Liberals (BO). Everyone would have someone that (more or less) represents their views about social and economic policy.

Both parties are showing signs of deep fracture. Pundits for both parties speak of the need to 'heal the divide' after the primary season. I say 'Let them split!'. Instead of healing divides we should nurture the creation of four strong and individual parties. Only then will we see a true competition for votes and policies.

they want a different candidate

The message is this...No one want four more years of the same.

It sends the message that the Republicans are a very confused group of people. Half of them want Huckabee to stay in the rase but half of them aren't voting for him in the primaries. Go figure.

It sends the message that the Republicans are a very confused group of people. Half of them want Huckabee to stay in the race, but half of them aren't voting for him in the primaries. Go Figure.

It's only a matter of time before John McCain loses that famous temper of his and the Republicans will see what they've done to themselves. I don't want John McCain's temper anywhere near "the button". And considering John McCain's history of making terrible blunders (does anyone remember the USS Forrestal?) John McCain would be a disastrous Commander in Chief.

I always thought in the past that if a qualified woman ran for president I would surely vote for her. That was until I first heard Barach Obama on Tim Russert's show in November 2006. I was so impressed with him that when he decided to run for president I was very excited. I have given 2 donations to his campaign and I had never donated to a campaign in my 67years on this planet Earth. Good Blessings to all.

Who cares? I really don't see what all the hubbub is about and why McCain all of a suddent feels he needs to get the support of his conservative republican officials. American people are the ones deciding who is going to be in office and if they like him they vote for him. The fact he's siding with a failed presidency and turning his back on what he once believed in is what he really should be worried about.

Jack
It doesnt matter whether its McCain or Huckabee you can stick a fork in the republican party in November, after 7 plus years of George W. Bush do you really think the American people want another Bush look a like in the white house ?

That "religious rightists" aren't done wrecking the country. "Religious rightist" want to turn the United States into a theocracy & they will not rest until they do.
Patricia
Palmdale, Ca.

The far right is the territory of Rove, Cheney, Delay. Even though he has sold out some of his previous positions, they are not inviting him into the club. There are worse things
.

The message is that many Republicans are still unsure about him (Mccain). People are starting to believe in Hukabee's message of fighting on until a candidate has 1,191 delegates. It just goes to show that given some time, many people's first gut instinct is not always correct.

Mike Huckabee is the real conservative.

Go Huckabee!!!!!

Jack,
It expresses about half the Republican party are telling Johnny Mac to keep his day job.

C.I., New York

According to the Democratic candidate HRC, republicans have never had a good idea; maybe now they are not as stupid as she thinks they are today. Both parties are split and need to drop the word blame and start working together to solve problems not putting people down all of the time. We are the divided states of america; "Just think about it", per Ron Paul.

Mr. McCain has got to enroll in a support group for attitude adjustment / behavior modification, and become more personable. He will be seventy-two years old soon,and his age is definitely a factor. The Republican base is very upset about their nominee, but their going to live with him, the only caveat being a strong ,youthful,running mate to balance out his cultural(ying/yang) karma? Earl , Provincetown,Mass.

McCain needs to quit the race and let Huckabee be the republican choice.

McCain needs to quit the race and let Huckabee be the republican choice.

The message is that conservative Republicans are whining a lot because they are realizing that their influence is waning. I think McCain would have a better shot if he just gave up on trying to please them. No one wants to live in the state of fear and divisiveness that conservatives want for this country. They've carried a lot of weight in elections past and look where it has gotten us. As far as I'm concerned they can all join President Bush on the We're-Over-It Express in November.

Dear Jack, The message is obvious... and it is as follows...
"We, the republican far right extremists, direct you to get in lock step and tow the right wing agenda line, or we will send more Bill Cunninghams after you."

I am far more interested in John McCain's line back to them... Which is as follows...
"Dear Mike Huckabee... when can the rest of reality expect your supporters to switch to decaf?"

What it should say to McCain is that the Republicans are predicting a run against Obama.

Huck for President as an Independent!!! Yes he can!

They have enough sense to know that McCain is not going to win with his past and current stance on Iraq.

That means we are all doomed!!!!!!

We need a NO-AMNESTY PRESIDENT.

The only message that John McCain could possibly get is maybe changing the stay in Iraq from 100 years to maybe 99 years.

I don't blame them – if I were a republican who doesn't believe in a woman's right to choose, or in stem cell research to help eliminate cancer, Alzheimers, Parkinson disease and other major diseases, who wants to have more Americans loose there lifes if a useless war, I would want Huckabee in too. At least he is a true Republican and not a Republican wantabee....like McCain. If you were smart after seeing what Republicans have done to the economy, you would vote for an democrat in office, VOTE HILLARY.

It says, "John, you're a hypocrit."

Myrtle Beach, South Caorlina - It says to me that John McCain better pick a running mate similar to Mike Huckabee. And besides, who will remember what happens today! In politics, by next week all can change, let alone this November.

It says that the Republican party is in deep yogurt. The extreme, evangelical right wing of the party continues to wield enormous power, crippling the party from putting forth a candidate who will actually be electable in the general election. If they would just shut up and get behind McCain, he might have a chance. But given how much McCain has already had to suck up to these fanatics combined with the fact that he's so closely aligned to one of the most unpopular presidents ever, well the Democrats might as well turn their convention into an inauguration party.

Age before beauty has got to stop and stop here. I say we need to put a limit on the age of a president. I was listening to McCain this weekend he is slow in his speeches and scaring me when he says he is a liberal when he mentions conservatives in the same sentences. Oxy moron. Huck needs to tell everyone about the mess he cleaned up for Bill and Hillary in this campaigne and i will be most amused to hear of it. all will have messes to clean up when the old move out they should charge security deposits on the positions.

I am still wondering how he got so far since the party does not want him half the people in the party dont want him and after watching him speak and how his wife controls him I sure cant vote for him

No, she should not drop out.

Obama is a great speaker but has no substance or
track record behind him....He is ALL FLASH!

The Republic party is simply telling McCain to come around to the ridiculous radical arch conservative policies that those nit wits expect if he wants their support. It doesn’t matter tough, because none of them will ever vote for a Democrat.

Mike Huckabee needs to be commended, he makes the effort to grant choice, and at the same time offers excuse for media coverage in this primary/caucus coverage between the parties.

Mike Huckabee, by holding the reigns, can retake the coach seat at the convention if the delegates swing in his direction.

I said the same thing for Hillary, this ain't over till it's all over. something could happen in the race to force McCain out. Huckabee could yet win the nomination. My only thinking here is that Huckabee may only get the Conservative vote and get very few Independent and even less Democrats to vote for him. I, as an Independent, like him better than McCain. A like his tax ideas. Good luck to all....

It isn't news that McCain has serious problems when it comes to Evangelicals and the most ardent social conservatives. Say what you will about Senator McCain, he does not use fear, smears, or faith to drum up votes. This break from Rovean politics does not play well the the most visceral of the Republican faithful. It's difficult to stir up the sharks when your candidate refuses to put blood in the water.

The message it sends is that the republican party is not going to elect the president this year. Neither will the democrats. It will be the independents and the moderates of both parties that wish for a viable alternative to the stale old democrat/republican mess we currently have. (We need to clean house in D.C. , including political pundits.)
McCain needs to keep true to his values. If he attempts to placate the right wing of his party, he will lose 2 votes from moderates for each 1 he gains.

Harry,
Carlisle, Ky.

A very dim message Jack. Senator McCain needs to do some to shake things up. He could announce his running mate! Let's see who could he choose that would charge up the media, separate him from the failed Bush administration, and diffuse the Obama movement and momentum. "Colin Powell" for V.P. That would add a very interesting dynamic to the election that we would all have to think about.

Gary in Vancouver.

These results indicate that a large number of polled Republicans are quite willing to replace our republic with their theocracy. I am willing to allow them their theocracy as long as they experience it in Iraq or Afghanistan. The Huckabee supporters can swap out with the troops they sent off to fight theocrats. Then they can really support the troops.

Chuckey TN

McCain should be dancing in the streets now that Boeing has lost the bid on the US Tanker. 40,000 American jobs gone. $40,000,000,000 given to France and Germany. A small price to cap off McCain's long time vendetta against one of America's great aircraft companies. Oh happy days.

Jack,

This is the conservative Republicans out there trying to call McCain liberal without letting the accursed "L-word" dirty their own lips.

People don't want someone just thrown at them, they want to have a choice. Didn't McCain slip and say that he was a liberal conservative?
He has no platform on the economy, health care, NAFTA and we are tired of hearing him only talk about Iraq.

are you kidding me? Jack.......polls are a waste of space
none of which are ever accurate and they only make the pundits
look like pundits.

I don't think the republicans like either McCain or Huckabee

I for one would not like to see Huckabee cooking squirrel in the white house or McCain smokin baby back ribs while we sit in iraq for the next 100 or so years.

Hillary should stand down in her defeat in Ohio & Texas and let Americans (through the brilliant leadership skills of Obama) take their country back. If she remains stubbornly selfish about her motives she will create a divide that may diffuse the momentum to inspire and sustain Americans involvement and cooperation their willingness to make necessary sacrifices. For the good of the country she should step away from this historical movement for change. It is ONLY through unity that we can regain a strengthened & effective democracy. Hillary does not draw such unity.

It means he'll have a lot of time to spend time with his wife and his lobbyist "friend."

John McCain is going to be the nominee for the party, and everyone in the party knows that. The polling is going the way it is right now because the "conservative" base knows that the Dems are still in-fighting, so sending a message to McCain now doesn't really impact the race. By withholding support, the Republicans who are still upset with McCain's bipartisan efforts can send him a message that he still has work to do in their eyes. The party will come together and rally behind him when the real race starts.

You think that stat looks bad for McCain? How about the stat that says nearly 60% don't want Clinton to drop out......

If it isn't Clinton, McCain '08

It doesn't really send a message to John McCain. The fact that many Republicans want Huckabee to stay in the race shows that they want him to get enough delegates to overtake Romney because many Republicans don't want Romney to think that he is next in line for the Republican presidential candidacy. This is a fight for the next presidential race. It is a vote against Romney, not against McCain.

I voted for Mike Huckabee in Tennessee, and would do it again in a heartbeat. Gov. Huckabee speaks for the majority of conservative voters, and while he is all but finished in this race, I think he should stay in just to show Senator McCain how much of an uphill climb he has ahead of him.

Jack im not a republican but i am an american. And as an american i feel that Mike Huckabee listens more to the people of this country than Sen. McCain. Sen. McCain ignores the voices of the people of his party, so i know that those of us who are listening senses that we'll still be stuck in the old Bush politics where "I can do what i want and everyone else has to follow my lead"... its that kind of leadership we dont need. Thats why i feel Mike Huckabee is relevant, because McCain/Bush politics are yesterday's disaster, we need a positive future. It's time to reconnect with the international community in a positive way. I just don't see a McCain presidency getting us there. Thanks Jack.

Hang in there Huckabee! I have a feeling this'll land in YOUR lap!

I don't know what it's saying? With Huckabee still dangling from a thread–the data is awfully skewed.

No question. Voting is serious business.
The agenda's of both Democratic candidates are too socialist leaning for me.

I'm an Independant–who will probably vote for McCain.
The alternative social re-engineering programs of other two are just too scary–and I'd have to vote against the changes they intend to make.

It makes no difference what the message is, McCain is so delusional that he couldn't hear any message anyway. I have never seen anyone so wrapped up in the past and determined to keep everything the same. Huckabee is proposing to legislate his religion but that is preferable to keeping this insane war going and giving amnesty to millions of illegals. Then there is the economy which is not one of McCain's best subjects. I really like the idea of getting rid of the IRS which is an illegal, criminal organization anyway so "I like Mike".

Jack, what it tells McCain is that the American public is finally paying attention to the positions the candidates have, rather than the superficial insights that the media spoon-feeds us in its 24×7 news cycle.

Huckabee staying in the race actually makes it so the republicans stay in the spotlight going state to state. It isn't really doing any harm. LOL...

Washington's Republican elite have done a disservice to the core and base of the Republican Party and the American people by endorsing McCain. This is no time to be honoring a Vietnam veteran simply because he has been waiting in line to be president. If McCain was a good candidate the Bush family would not have waited until now to endorse him. Anyone with a knowledge of human nature can see that McCain has no chance against the quick, youth and star like qualities of Obama. Also, even Republicans want change and McCain is not offering anything new. Absolutely nothing. Huckabee has been the only Republican candidate from the beginning of the primaries who is able to win in November. And he has the most execuitive experience and the new ideas for change.

It says that the extreme conservative right wing of the Republican party has not given up its stranglehold on the rest of the party.

As a Democrat I would love to see Huckabee represent the GOP in the general election.

Seriously, I feel sorry for the mainstream Republican who must wonder whatever happened to his party.

What it says is that half of Republicans (the Huckabee half) are crazy...

Quite simply, it means McCain doesn't have much of a chance of winning and those so-called "evangelical votes" could be lost to another candidate.

The message it sends is....Retire to Florida, John, with the millions you made from your lobbyists.

Buyers remorse maybe? A vote for Huckabee is a way to show discontent with the party choosing an old war hawk with liberal values. New Hampshire should have kept the receipt.

It tells him he had better broaden his appeal toward the center of politics. He can not depend on just the Republican party to get elected. He will do this and will win the nomination and probably the election.

What does it mean? Remember when Mike Huckabee was routinely criticizing Bush for everything he did? That wasn't working for Huckabee with the neocons. Someone obviously pulled Mike aside and told him to begin bragging on W and praising his policies. That is when the tide turned and he began winning primaries. It doesn't speak as much for McCain as it tells the rest of the country that republicans stubbornly and ignorantly support the worst President in U. S. History.

Sounds like there's a lot of buyers remorse going on. Maybe some GOP are already sick of John McScandal a Day. I haven't voted for a Dem since Jimmy Carter, but I WON"T vote for John McCain.

It doesn't send the message that you are trying to sell. To me, it sends the message that Mike Huckabee has been telling the media every time they ask him if he is going to drop out. That is, the game isn't over until someone has the proper number of delegates.
This question just goes to show that a poll can be read anyway the reader wants to read it.
I like Mike.

It should make McCain realize the core values of the Republican party which may turn out to be the reasons they lose in the fall.
These reasons are being anti-abortionists, bible thumping mentalities and the love of war under the pretense of aiming for peace. maybe McCain is more of a democrat then he realizes!
Maybe he should change sides!

I think Lori from Iowa has a great point!

Jack I think mike should stay in the race,why not its good to see the contrast between the two.......Then again why don't you media types frame the same question about Hillary??????hm double standard maybe? I'm sure you won't use this let alone posting this!

John McCain should certainly be surprised, but not moved. No matter what happens, McCain has the nomination; the math is on his side.

The message, hopefully, that it sends is that the Republican party for the 2008 elections is, God willing, finished!

Natalie Rosen, Framingham, MA

As a republican voter I've been watching Huckabee from John Stuart and The Colbert Report to now Saturday night live. I personally like McCain, and would be perfectly happy with him as president. I believe Republican voters don't so much 'hate' McCain as they simply enjoy Huckabee's humor and personable nature.

The fact that 49% of republicans want Huckabee to stay in the race means that about half of the republican base are dissatisfied with the conservative credentials of Mccain. I will advise Mccain to cut a deal with Huckabee and his numerous supporters who are urging him on by offering him the VP slot to bring this embarrassing situation to an amicable end.

Nick
Silver Spring, Maryland

As we all know, polititians a park duck, so any comments not suitable for their ego or temperment just slide off their bodies. However, Senator McCain might have a temper tandrum or two in doing so.

This just goes to show that McCain's chances
for the white house are very slim. He may trump
huckabee now, but republicans don't have the same
passion for him that democrats and even independents
have for Obaman and Clinton. This will turn out
for the republicans like it did for the democrats
four years ago: no solid candidate has been put on
the ballot, so democrats will win easily.

The message is simple....
McCain....You Suck.

I like Huckabee. Huckabee makes the most sense of all the candidates. He is down to earth and has some good ideas. He knows Washington is broken and he is experienced in making decisions and managing. He is for improving Health Insurance and Education. He is a good Guy.

McCain should add Huckabee to the ticket. Consoladate the party as best he can and get a VP that is younger, a good campaigner, excellent knowledge of what is needed to win and a good potential President.

Mike

Here is the message. Huckabee has great appeal and like John McCain he doesn't have an ounce of quit in him. These are qualities we are looking for in our leaders..

I voted for Huckabee & hope he beats McCain in Texas!!!!!!!!!

Hang in there Mr. Huckabee!

McCain should have debated Huck in an attempt to reach out to those of us who do not like him enough to go out and vote for him.

I now will not vote for McCain.

Of course Huckabee should stay in the race !!! McCain should switch to the Democrats side. He's almost as left as Obama and Hillary..... My vote goes to Huckabee a real Republican not someone who wants to hold an olive branch to the enemy.

John,
It is time to start shopping for a new wife, who is younger and more appealing to the younger voters, ... maybe college cheerleader!

Dale – Oklahoma

It says that John McCain is someone who is willing to, and has, reached across the isle when the 'other side' is more inline with his own opinion, and that never goes over well in that individual's party. I want a president who doesn't have the 100% support of just his or her party because that means we're talking about somebody who will actually do what they think is right rather than just siding with their party's position on any paricular issue.

Todd Kirsten
State College, PA

I think the message is even Republicans are thinking twice about a 72 year old as President. Hasn't anyone out there ever called your Dad or Grandpa at say, 3am, with an emergency and spent 5 mins trying to get him to understand who you are? Come on people, is that really who you want in the WH?

It will send McCain no message. That would imply that he actually listened to anyone in the first place. He's just more of the same of what we've had from the Bush administration. And we've learned a lot over the last 7 years what its like when our leaders don't listen.

And while I would never ever vote for Huckabee, he should not receive any pressure to drop out. He is a candidate and has every right to maintain his candidacy right to the very end. And speaking of dropping out, why are you not discussing that Ron Paul drop out? Ohhhhh thats right.... The media blackout... Forgot about that. You people are so predictable.

Jack,
This indicates to me that the Republicans have the wrong man running. Also, he is still part of the same politics we've had for the past 4 years.

I think all it says is that the Republicans, like anyone, like a good race. It's kind of like how contestants on American Idol and shows like that can continue for weeks even though they should have been kicked off.

I do like Huckabee as a candidate, and hope he stays in even though he can't win, just because I want to see what late-night comedy skit he's going to show up in next.

I may be alone here, but the more McCain cozies up with the crazies on the lunatic fringe of the far right, the more alienated I feel by him. Mike Huckabee has been consistently conservative and independent, while McCain seems too eager to make himself over to win votes. I just wish McCain would stick to his own convictions and be himself. This attempt to gain support on the far right does not suit him at all. The biggest issue for me in this election is trust. I want an end to the corrupting influence of money and special interests in government and more transparent government. I trust Huckabee because he is his own man. I honestly don't know which is the real John McCain anymore.

It means that we need to prepare for President Obama. If McCain can't get Republicans to turn out for him, he will have no chance. Obama would get more swing voters and the democrats are more amped for this election. Republicans need to unite on McCain or else we are going to have to watch 8 months of meaningless election coverage. Jack, I'm glad to see you on the Situation Room more for more discussions. You are always a character for sure. Keep calling it like you see it.

Greg
Baltimore

What it says to Senator McCain is that conservative Christian Republicans are not as dumb as he would like to think we are. We know that in spite of his claim to be a conservative Republican, his record proves otherwise. We want Mike Huckabee to stay in the race because he is the one candidate who truly represents us and our values. Mr. McCain does not, and therefore we will not vote for him. Gov. Huckabee will the return our country to a government of the people, by the people and FOR the people, rather than one controlled by special interest groups and big corporate money.
What this should tell Senator McCain and the GOP is that they have effectively split their voting base by ignoring the values of conservative Christians, and that this will pretty much insure that our next president will be a Democrat.

With all the horse race reporting from you folks the tv informed republcans get what they deserve McCain, and last ditch hope
Huckabee. every report on Ron Paul and his free market princibles
was reported as fringe. Looks like he is right about the economy and the dollar! Well folks you get what you deserve.

It says that the Republican party needs to pay more attention to its up and coming voters. I'm in the 30-something demographic that will secure the future of the party. A former Democrat, I registered Republican because I was tired of the squabbling and wanted to put my support behind one, solid candidate. I believe that's John McCain. Watching the Conservatives act like crybabies is disheartening. If they aren't careful, we'll wind up independents after all.

It tells McCain that he has to earn the nomination, not be handed it prematurely and it shows respect for Huckabee – no one can respect a quitter. To the earlier question, Clinton should also not pull out...Obama isn't either black nor brown, he's green...we are not electing a senior class president,,,yes, you can vote for Hillary and still get to sit with the popular kids in the cafeteria....

Americans are sick and tired of "the establishment" picking our nominee. I will not be told to "hold my nose" and vote because he is the GOP establishment pick. When he lied about being too busy to have a debate and then took the weekend off to BBQ, this showed me what kind of a president he would be. He allows the Democrats to take over every news source because he is afraid he might blunder. If he cannot debate others in his own party, how will he ever debate the Democratic nominee. He cares about his ego, not the American people. I will NEVER vote for John McCain!

I think it means that the Republicans didn't get who they want so they in some ways are no better off than the Democrats.

By the time November comes, nobody will even care about voting. This campaing has been a year already . 2 years to run for a 4 year job seems a bit much .

I just wish the Democrats would choose someone cause if Hillary wins then I am going back to sleep

It should tell John McCain that the Stepford Conservatives are upset that anyone would dare to refuse to fall totally into their mold – Heaven forbid that a Republican would dare to work with Democrats with the best interest of America in mind. America is very lucky to have someone like John McCain running for the highest office in the land.

PS – I'm a Democrat, but it's pretty obvious who will get my vote.

With half of the Republican party wanting Huckabee to stay in the race, the message to McCain is simple: They got beef chuck steak, but what the party really wants is a nice rib-eye!

It tells McCain and also explains to us why Republicans aren't happy with their choices of Presidential Candidates, which has been obvious with the turnout of people who vote on the Democratic Ticket and those voting on the GOP Ticket.

Jack,
I'm not sure what message it sends to John McCain. I can tell you that, as a Democrat, it sends the message to me that I should switch parties. Many Democrats seem to think Senator Clinton should "suspend" her campaign when she and Senator Obama are so very close. In contrast, many Republicans think Mr. Huckabee should stay in, even though it isn't even a close race between Mr. McCain and Mr. Huckabee. Why do you even ask questions like this? You can answer all of them with regard to Hillary with a few simple words.....male chauvenism. As for McCain, I don't know, my friend.
Audra in Nashville

It means he should get the whip out. In any wolf pack, there is only room for one top dog. It's up to the top dog to take care of his rivals who also want to be top dog. If the top dog can't do that, then he has a leadership problem.

Jack – where has the Republican Party been for the last 3 years? Watching President Bush's approval rating sink , while anti-war sentiment has risen drastically, why hasn't the Republican Party searched for a young, carismatic candidate and introduced him to the country, just like Obama has done? The continued turn out for Huckabee is a reaction to the fact that McCain is the "best" we've got, but not necessarily the man we want. Let the man stay in the race – it gives the GOP a good idea of what we need to do over the next 8 years. At this rate, there'll be a Democrat in the White House until then.

It tells me that half the republicans what religion in the White House more than they what cooperation between the other parties.

Jack-

It shows that the American people don't want 4 more years of a Bush/Cheney style presidency. They are still looking for a true conservative, one that won't raise taxes, balance the budget, secure our borders, and stop unconstitutional spending. The only candidate left standing who fits that criteria of true conservatism is Ron Paul.

Taylor
Hartland, Wisconsin

Those Republicans that still want Huckabee must agree with his position on evolution which is they don't believe it. This should tell McCain that half his party comes from the shallow end of the gene pool.

Gary, Stillwater, Oklahoma

It sends this message: "McCain, you are most likely NOT going to win the Presidency." Huckabee should stay in the race representing the values that so many of the conservatives endorse. Voting against someone doesn't work, so why not vote your beliefs? Isn't that what democracy is all about?
Salem, Oregon

Jack
It just goes to show what many many of us have been saying for sometime. We did NOT pick the current crop of candidates. Only a few states had that privelege. But we can still say we reject them by asking for candidates, who probably won't win, to remain in the race AND we will support them 'til the end!

Old man mccain should not take anything for granted ....watch out for mikey...john

I have been a Independent for since the Vietnam War and always voted Republican. I respect John McCain's service for serving in the military as millions of others have but I will not vote for this arrogant
self serving candidate.

If almost 50% of the GOP wants Huckabee then why does McCain win by such huge margins in the primaries? I'm a Republican and nobody asked me my opinion. It makes me wonder how many were polled and where.

Tony Fabrizio,
Burbank,Ca.

The message can't be repeated on TV. It's a shame because McCain is a decent guy who deserves better. And this is coming from a liberal Obama supporter.

Here's what Republicans want: McCain's experience plus Huckabee's personality plus Romney's flair plus, Heaven forbid, a little common sense about evolution.

David
Greenwood, Arkansas

Jack,

I don't care about the message sent to McCain; I'm not worried about Huckabee. I'm more concerned about the nation. I've been an Independent for years. Tomorrow, I'm going to do something I never thought I'd do...I'm going to vote in the Republican primary. Ack! The candidate of my choice? Ron Paul. He's the only candidate who is qualified to guide this nation through the recession (and likely a depression). I don't see McCain and Huckabee as good for the nation in the coming hard times; I certainly don't see Obama and Clinton as capable of guiding us through it. All four of them represent unchallenged spending, unfettered borrowing, and continuing war. I can't hold for any of that, and I know Ron Paul won't, either. Ron Paul is my choice.

Dear Jack,

What the poll results tell me is that not all polls are created equal.

However, IF these poll results are in fact accurate, it tells me that Republican brains have atrophied during the last 7 Bush years.

Love your coverage.

Thanks,
Diane Reid

Let's face it, There are a small number of ultra right wing mouthpieces on the airways who have got a lot of American's convinced that John McCain isn't conservative enough. This is their response to the public's audacity in not selecting a candidate that meets their ideals. It resembles a small child kicking and screaming because mommy and daddy didn't get them the toy they wanted at the store.
Come November it will be the voters who again make the decision.

Martin
Vancouver, Canada.

I'm so sick of Mike Huckabee and his decision to stay in the race. Repulicans need to unite on McCain or election day will be decided as soon as the democrats pick a candidate. Who is still giving Huckabee money?!?! Aren't there better things to do with that money, Mr. Religious Conservative? Help the poor, help failing city schools, do anything besides waste the money on traveling the country to divide the Republican party for your own personal ego. Why do Americans waste their money on people that can't win? Do something productive

Huckabee should stay in.

If people actually listened to his message he is the candidate for change on the republican side. Obama on the other side.

I’m sure I know the answer, Jack! Huckabee is sticking around to keep the Republicans who have an evangelical leaning “in” the party and not looking for another right wing candidate who would run as an independent. The extreme right will never embrace (openly) anyone who doesn’t play the game their way (Christian Evangelical). So, Huckabee’s staying in the campaign is a buffer for McCain and therefore is an asset not a “message.”

Jack, the Republicans should be telling McCain to prepare for whoever the Democrats choose as his opponent. Hopefully, the infighting within the Democratic Party will continue, and split the opponents apart. However, whatever happens after tomporrow, McCain should show himself ready to listen to the concerns of the people, whether it be by spending less time talking about our affairs overseas and devoting himnself to our domestic needs, particularly in the spheres of the economy and the environment. He should also be thinking about a future running mate appealing to so many so as to make a truly winning ticket. He should remember that his opponent, whether Obama or Clinton will be dangerous and quite capable of capturing the will og the people and the White House.

Jack don't you think the Republicans know McCain better than he thinks they do. They know that he will betray them by moving to the Center during the general election to appeal to so called independents. Hence by urging his opponent to stay in, they are reminding McCain they are the boss.

As a resident of Kansas, where Mike Huckabee won by a substantial margin, I can say that it's the result of a larger, politically motivated Christian population. Huckabee's personality, mannerisms and beliefs are parallel to many of the religious speakers in my area. That's why I'm voting for Obama, who appears to be the most neutral when it comes to religious ideals and how they affect politics. For me, voting for Huckabee would be like electing Billy Graham to the White House; throwing separation of church and state out the window.

It means there are plenty of people who support Huckabee while he has been shunned, ignored, and talked down upon by the media.
Richmond, VA

Miike Huckabee is a very appealing guy with a great personality and I think he has all the good qualities needed to be President . This coming from a Democrat.......me. On the other hand, John McCain running for President is like me auditioning for the Rockettes, we're both too darned old. It is a known fact that he was a decorated war hero and this is to be respected, however, it is also a known fact that he has a tendency to be volatile, arrogant and has an abrasive know-it-all attitude. We need a big change in government. Even the Republicans know that John McCain is a "loose cannon."

The Republicans have had 4 years to come up with a suitable candidate. Finally they offer to the GOP voters McCain and Huckabee. Of course they are split with those choices. . Maybe they will find a worthy candidate in 2012. But even that is probably too soon for hope for the GOP to get over the damage caused by the Decider.

Mc Cain has never been a conservative candidate. He has described himself as conservative liberal. Three liberals candidates do not give me an acceptable choice. Huckabee should not withdraw from the race until the last primary has ended. Every state should have their votes/delegates counted! Significant conservative infuence can cause McCain to commit to specific conservative issues.

It not about insulting each other Democrat or Republican. It is about serious issues such as Health care. I am a small business owner & A registered Independant, Thanks to Former Governor Mike Huckabee my wife & I now have health insurance coverage for $58 a month. We drive on repaired roads some of the best in the country. We had a budget surplus when he left office there was so much money the state of Arkansas actually mulled over mailing some of it back to us. When the Huckster ran low on funds for his canpaign he didn't borrow another 5 million for the slots he just said out loud if we don't have it we won't spend it. Now I ask you America who do you want leading your country. P.S. Huckabee is currently running that has actually run a Government & done it succesfully. From the state of Arkansas Steve Sayger

SIMPLE, that we want Mike Huckabee to be the president.

It looks like the Republican leadership wants McCain (it's his turn, after all!). But he's really weak on tomorrow's issues (energy, economy, border security), focusing primarily on continuing Bush's failed military strategies. If Huckabee makes a strong showing in Texas, McCain will be seen as weak and beatable.

Some – including some in the media – prefer to denegrate Gov Huckabee's background, experience and ideas, continuing to call him only "former pastor." Instead, he has some of the most innovative ideas in this election. Most Republicans are smart enough to see the value in those ideas.

For the good of the party....well, we've heard that enough lately, haven't we? How about this? For the good of the party John McCain should debate Mike Huckabee. For the good of the party the GOP should encourage discussion. And last but not least, for the good of the party the GOP and John McCain should pay attention to the Christian conservatives, the 18- 30 vote, and the middle to lower income voters that are struggling to keep up. I've been voting republican for 35 years, but their "for the good of the party" has just about pushed me out of it. This is not about THE PARTY, it is about WE THE PEOPLE!

I think at least a third of those polled truly believe like me that Huckabee will make a great president and are voting with their heart and wallet. The other 15 percent or so that want him to stay in the race may be wanting to teach arrogant McCain a lesson and keep the debate alive. Some may be disappointed that their first choice dropped out so soon. Those who haven't voted yet just want a choice.

Gov. Mike Huckabee has managed to stay in this race spending a lot less than his competitors and has won a substantial amount of the southern states. He evidently has the ability to use his resources to the fullest and has the supporters to back him up. Let the people have a choice and let him do what he has a right to do according to the rules of the Primary election.

It is unnerving to see a select group of people try to sway this election process. It feels like we are no longer a true democracy, but are suppose to bow to the opinions and power of the one's who can manipulate the truth and try to push their agenda down our throats. Why should we have to be subjected to this mockery of our system over and over again? I guess it's because the one's that get in the power positions abuse it over and over again.

I think Mike Huckabee truly tries to serve the people and doesn't push his authority on the people. One reason I think he was rated in the top 5 governors.