Third, Romney grasps the subtle intricacies between public policy and its hidden costs. The implications of unmanaged immigration, the mounting radical Islamic fundamentalism and unprecedented terror threats against America, and our unquenchable oil dependency on unstable nations each endangers our national economy.

Fourth, Romney has a proven ability to achieve bipartisan progress. Washington today is gridlocked in endless partisan discord across entrenched political divides, crippling any sense of unity or harmony. As governor of a state where legislative accomplishments were dependent on cross-aisle accord, Romney was repeatedly tested and proved that cooperative results are possible when civic decency and the public good are placed ahead of personal political gain.

Fifth, Romney not only emanates competence and dynamism and comfort with himself, but he has the necessary personal vitality and vigorous good health. He is comparatively youthful and is equipped to succeed the president.

Sixth, Romney's values are good for America. A candidate of character and principle to whom personal morality does matter, he has proven himself acceptable to social conservatives on moral issues, revitalized the Founders' belief that in America liberty is inseparably bonded to religious faith, and reminded us by example that the family is the fundamental cornerstone of civilization.

At a time when our homeland security, economic health and national condition are being daily assaulted, who McCain picks as his running mate really does matter. Romney strengthens not only the Republican ticket but a McCain presidency as well.

---

Stephen M. Studdert, a resident of Alpine, is a former White House adviser to Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush and Gerald Ford.