I had planned a post on McCain’s running mate in anticipation of this morning’s decision.  But, I write this as I head to bed in California, still needing to find a flight to Minneapolis.  And given the time difference we may well know the nominee before I wake up.

Unlike some Republicans, I wouldn’t be upset if the 2008 presumptive Republican presidential nominee tapped the 2000 Democratic vice presidential nominee, Joe Lieberman.  Lieberman gets the most pressing issue facing our country at this time and would not waver in the War on Terror.  National interest trumps party loyalty for me.

While I wouldn’t be upset by Lieberman, I am rooting for Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty who seems the best of the candidates most frequently mentioned.  He has been a pretty effective Governor, working with Democratic majorities in the state legislature, frequently vetoing their spendthrift legislation.  And while he is pro-life, thus pleasing social conservatives, he does not walk in lockstep with the far right.  Indeed, while conservative, he is far from doctrinaire.

I have been impressed with former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney’s performance in debates since I saw the exchange last January in New Hampshire.  Even after John McCain bested him in the Republican primaries, he has campaigned zealously on behalf of his one-time rival, handling tough questions from reporters with intelligence and grace.  He has a good command of the issues and would give Joe Biden a run for his money in the Vice-presidential debate.

But, there’s just something about him that doesn’t feel right.  I agree with Glenn Reynolds who writes, “Romney just feels wrong to me, I’m not sure why. He’s got a good resume and he seems like a nice guy, but he comes across as a bit plastic, the opposite of the “straight talk” brand, I guess.“

None of the other candidates under consideration really leap out.  There seems to be a lot of speculation on the Corner that it’ll be Pawlenty.  That would make me happy and please Hugh Hewitt who says it’s either going to be the Minnesota Governor or the former Massachusetts Chief Executive.

It’s just too bad that the ideal candidate has the wrong last name for this election.