If I recall the MA situation correctly Romney responded to the urging for such a solution and in working with the legislature there came up with whatever you want to call what they have. It seems to me it was more a matter of this is what you want so I will put it together for you. Since then I have read reports where the state is unable to cope with the costs. Not a big surprise for such a plan.

To support government intervention in the auto industry has the Iacocca example as a successful event but some regard it not as wonderful as most recall. The current bailout craze likely does not have much in common with that but is one case that may explain why some may have supported such a notion.

McCain almost lost his chance at nomination with the McCain/Kennedy and the White House amnesty plan in 2007. After the resounding defeat mostly due to public outrage he expressed his support of it as a mistake but appears to still hold the view favoring some sort of ‘path’ which amounts to amnesty.

The problem for Romney, McCain and others is the public may give you a pass on a position change or two but there will be some limit which when exceeded will earn them the flip-flop anchor. In general however the term is applied to quickly in many instances.

Huckabee has been more visible lately and may raise the question on whether he is working on 2012 also. Much can change in a few years but I suspect any candidate from the 2008 contest minus the victor will have a slim chance for success in 2012.