Politics: Conventional Wisdom

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Politics Conventional Wisdom Republicans are growing worried that they are headed to a "brokered convention" in Tampa. It's unlikely—but there is still plenty to worry about. By John Dickerson Posted Friday, Feb 24, 2012, at 01:49 AM ET Disney may be in Orlando, but in Republican Party politics, Tampa is the home of Fantasyland. That's where the GOP convention will be held the week of Aug. 27. As the Republican race appears more likely to stretch into spring (or beyond), journalists and political operatives have started to imagine make-believe scenarios for what might happen if GOP delegates show up with funny hats, pins, and suntan lotion but no confirmed nominee. It is still early—there are still 48 contests to go—and a lot can happen on the campaign trail between now and August. But while we're thinking of hot days in western Florida, one thing is certain: No matter who the nominee is, there is going to have to be a reconciliation between populist conservatives, evangelicals, and establishment Republicans. GOP leaders are going to have a tough time putting on their show for the watching world if they can't finesse these differences. Here are the three most likely scenarios, in declining order of madness. Pure Chaos: A Brokered Convention  Usually it takes three martinis and a long night to get people to ruminate about a brokered convention, but it's happening. Under this scenario, a white-knight candidate arrives either late in the nominating process or in Tampa. Of course, this person does not yet exist. Jeb Bush, Mitch Daniels, and Chris Christie have all said they're not interested. Oh sure, they could be convinced to enter the race, but that doesn't change ... To continue reading, click here. Join the Fray: our reader discussion forum What did you think of this article? POST A MESSAGE | READ MESSAGES Also In Slate "Romney Just Seems Tired": Voters on Why They've Switched to Santorum Yglesias: The Folly of Blaming Obama for Higher Gas Prices How Home-Brewing Has Made America Into the Most Innovative Beer Country in the World	Advertisement
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