The discussion centers on potential candidates for the 2012 presidential election, with notable mentions including David Petraeus and Joe Scarborough. Bob Dole has expressed support for Petraeus, suggesting he could be a strong contender due to his military background and leadership during the Iraq surge. However, Petraeus has not declared any political affiliation, which raises questions about his potential candidacy. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of the Republican nomination process, highlighting changes that may favor darkhorse candidates and lead to a more chaotic primary season. There is skepticism about the Republican Party's ability to regain power, with some predicting a long-term Democratic hold, particularly with figures like Hillary Clinton potentially running in future elections. The discussion also critiques the current political climate, with concerns about health care reform and fiscal responsibility dominating the conversation. Overall, the thread reflects a mix of speculation about candidates and broader political strategies as the 2012 election approaches.