I think by this point, looking at Haley's career, it's clear she's not exactly the most steadfast, quite capable of changing her position as circumstances require. But she does seem smart and more capable than many other politicians - and not prone to too extreme views. Wouldn't make for a great president, but should make for a tolerable one who inspires more respect than Biden does.

I think I've mentioned this before, but lately I've become increasingly convinced that perhaps the single most important quality in a leader in today's world is to be optimistic and focus on the good things, instead of only dwelling on the bad and seeing decay everywhere. Among right-wing leaders or candidates, Rubio's 2016 campaign comes to mind, as does David Cameron before the unfortunate referendum or Malcolm Turnbull in Australia - whatever else their flaws, that's a big point in their favour, now that we've seen the ugly alternatives. Optimism is a moral duty, indeed. I'm not sure if Haley fully meets that criterium, but she sure comes a lot closer than Trump, in addition to the myriad of other ways she's infinitely preferable.

I get that Michelle Obama has the advantage of having been in the public eye for so long without getting the blame for anything, but just what is it that makes people think her so capable of being president? Especially considering the rather unwelcoming reception that the previous Democratic First Lady with ambitions in that direction got? No doubt Michelle has better people skills and is less open about whatever ambitions she may have than Hillary, but the difference can't be that shallow, can it?