In today’s NY Post, Ryan Sager writes that “it’s becoming undeniable: Rudy Giuliani will run for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008 — as the clear frontrunner.” In the current issue of NRODT, I acknowledge Giuliani’s first-place standing in the polls repeatedly cited by his boosters but argue he will take a big tumble when conservative fans focus on his liberal views and record. And much of what bugs conservatives about John McCain is likely to bother them about Giuliani when they learn more about Manhattan’s own maverick. I also predict that primary voters are unlikely to dismiss his operatic personal life as former GOP chairman Rich Bond did in 2000 in the midst of a tabloid-fest over the battling mayor and his missu s — “I would tell him to do whatever he wants with his personal life because life is too short to not be with the one you love.” (There’s a reason why no one looks to “Dear Abby” for political advice). I do agree with Ryan that “it’s early in the game yet” — but believe it’s too late for Rudy Giuliani to make a credible transformation that demands more than make-up and a wig.