the grades are in...JOHN McCAIN

"A+" on national defense. He'll make you proud. His biggest strength of all the others...he could teach the class. He knows the military, he knows strength, he knows the enemy, knows strategy, knows suffering. If national defense is your top concern, John McCain trumps everybody else by a whopping margin! In fact, he makes Bush and Rumsfeld look silly. The waterboarding thing is a non-issue. Keep your eye on the ball. I don't have a grade in my book higher than an "A+" or he'd get it! No problems here. If we get attacked, he will fight like an SOB to pay back. If you're in the military and want a friend, vote for this guy.

"D" on immigration. Surprisingly soft on the borders. He said it with his actions on the Amnesty Bill. More of Bush policy, don't ask don't tell. It'll take something major to get him to change on this issue. I can't give him an "F" because that is reserved for Hillary.

"B" on economics. Listen to what I say here...he openly states that he doesn't know that much about the topic. That's a good thing! He will listen and take advice from conservatives who do know economics. I truly believe that. You'll get a combination of programs and wise spending so a plain "B" is the grade. He'll act with common sense, but not totally give the conservatives what they want. Slightly above average from all indicators.

"B+" on foreign affairs. A former prisoner of war will gain considerable respect with our friends, and more importantly, our enemies. Everyone of adult age and wisdom understands what that means. His many years on this planet will serve him well in this area. The Middle East will feel his strength and that's what they respond to in that area of the world...perceived strength and determination. McCain won't be a party guy around the globe, don't look for that like an Obama or Hillary, but he will bring a certain amount of stature to the office, and thus, to you and me.

"C" on taxation. I can see higher taxes in the McCain administration, unfortunately. He has indicated his willingness to hear out free-spending Dems on their concerns, and just might win out. McCain isn't the most knowledgable on schools, those who do know might persudade him to spend on that losing proposition. Programs here, cuts in other others. I could forsee that. His lack of economic prowess might be a slight problem if he doesn't listen to his conservative friends.