On the contrary, Mary

Mary Dejevsky says that McCain's nomination "marks the end" of the "religious right" as a political force in American politics. That's the complete opposite of the lesson I'm taking out of the Republican primaries.

The significance of this reversion in changing the complexion of US politics cannot be overestimated. It would effectively mark the end of the religious right as a serious political force in Washington. Even if McCain chose the former Arkansas governor, Mike Huckabee, as his running mate – an option which, at this early stage, has a certain logic – we would still be seeing at very least the beginning of the end of Christian fundamentalism incorporated into national politics.

Romney's failure - complete and utter failure - in the south can be attributed to the Evangelicals' views on Mormonism more than to any other factor. No, the lesson here is that for many in the 'Republican base' a candidate's faith is more important than his policies. Rightly or wrongly Mormonism is beyond the pale.