I reviewed yesterday how the Economy is a vital issue for both Repubs and Dems--also pointing out there is increasing concern of a looming recession and how McCain's not quite up to snuff on this issue (even by his own admission)

But who would be best for the economny? Barron's Online back in July said that Romney would be the best GOP candidate and McCain the worst GOP candidate for the economy (Huck's lucky that he wasn't included in their rankings back then). Their cover story article was called "The Mitt and Bill Show" Parts One and Two.

Some notable quotes:

Romney would be the best Republican candidate for stocks, bonds and the economy

"Based on our report card, the optimal match-up for Wall Street would be Richardson versus Romney, because both candidates favor low taxes and sound fiscal policy."

"Romney, formerly governor of Massachusetts and once a top private-equity investor, garnered 3.8 points out of a possible 4"

"Polls show that most Americans consider estate taxes to be unjust. Nevertheless, Mitt Romney and Rudy Giuliani are the only candidates who favor total elimination. Romney told us, "I believe that it is unfair to tax income when it is earned, then again when it is saved and then again when it is passed on to one's children and grandchildren."

. . .

McCain's answer was ambiguous. On one hand, he supported extending all Bush tax cuts. But then he said the estate tax should be "low, simple, predictable and unobtrusive."

Folks, if the Economy takes a turn south we need a nominee who can make a convincing case that he can help turn it around. Only Romney can make that sale IMO (his resume is quite impressive in his education on ecomomics). As far as who I'd trust to with the Economy Romney's first, Rudy's a distant second, then Fred, then McCain, then Richardson, then Clinton tied with Huckabee, then Obama, then Edwards. We should keep in mind that there's a far greater chance of a economic downturn than many other variables or possibilities that people talk about a POTUS may face.

Jeff Fuller