John McCain and Mike Huckabee

John McCain has clinched the nomination so Huckabee has officially bowed out. But I think it is important to note that for all the talk about conservative Christianity being rather passe now, Huckabee had a very, very respectable showing and gave McCain a run for his money in some cases-- which was unexpected by the establishment.

I think it shows that there is great concern over the social issues in this country.

I also believe that while McCain will pull in a majority of the Huckabee-type voters, many are going to take up the state motto of Missouri-- "Show me." These voters are not easily led and they aren't dumb-- they'll be watching to make sure McCain follows through on campaign promises and statements regarding issues like abortion, Supreme Court nominations, marriage, etc.

Florida

I have to admit, I was a bit surprised that McCain picked up the endorsements he did. I was certain Romney would get the major endorsements of Governor Crist and the popular Florida Senator Mel Martinez.

Still the race for the nomination is going to be close no matter what. Romney and McCain are still polling, for the most part, within a few percentage points of each other. Super Tuesday will tell us much, much more about where we are headed with a Republican nominee.

What about Huckabee? I still really like Huckabee and expect that he will pull in a significant number of votes on Tuesday. Voters for Huckabee are voting for a man who is genuine and truly stands for conservative, social justice issues. If you want to see compassionate conservatism and what religious conservatives really believe about the social issues of our day you just have to look at Huckabee's stand on issues such as abortion and the poor.

Romney and McCain look to be the top dogs in this race but Huckabee is still a force to be reckoned with.

Iowa

Well, Iowa is almost upon us and, as usual, the media will try to use the results like tea leaves to predict what will happen in November.

Romney and Huckabee are doing well in Iowa but the state is known for being conservative. That said, I think it will give us a feel for how a good sized portion of the Republican Party is leaning in this contest.