NIKKI AS SARAH? – AT 8:25 A.M. ET:  I watched an interview with Nikki Haley last night.  As you know, she came out on top in the race for the GOP gubernatorial nomination in South Carolina, but must now win the runoff, which should be easy.

Haley is a phenomenon, whose race to the top was helped mightily by an endorsement from Sarah Palin and by a sympathy vote from voters angered by charges that she had been unfaithful to her husband.

I found Haley an articulate spokeswoman for conservative causes.  Like Sarah Palin, she has taken on the GOP establishment on ideological matters, which has not made her loved among the good 'ol boys.  She is far more popular among voters than among politicians.  That's fine in elections, but she'll have to mend fences if she wants to govern effectively.

Is she Palinesque?  Well, not quite.  Haley is a serious person, states her position clearly, but lacks Sarah's charm.  She's got to lighten up a bit and avoid appearing angry.  I think she can do it.  She's run a masterful campaign, and is someone to watch.  Now relax, Nikki, relax.

June 10, 2010