Republicans aren't a little-d democratic organization: they're a oligarchic cabal leading a herd of authoritarian followers.  As such, Republican nominees aren't elected, they're appointed and ratified by the sheep.  When's the last time that didn't happen?  Goldwater?

I think the Republican Politburo has been floating trial balloons named McCain, Giuliani, Romney (maybe) and Thompson.  Each seems to deflate almost as soon as it's hoist up.  At this point I'd expect the stern-faced men behind the curtain have two or three other balloons hidden away, ready to spring on the party -- sort of like they did with Thompson.  They're probably getting nervous hoping the find one that'll at least make it to the finish line.  

May not make much difference anyway.  They clearly plan to make the campaign All About Hillary.