I have had many requests from readers for an expert in-depth analysis of the Republican candidates for President. As I had a spare half hour last week when a colleague was late for drinks with me at the pub I am able to oblige.

Sarah Palin
Has a distinct advantage over the other candidates because as a non-denominational Christian she’s less confronting to atheists. Also she has tremendous appeal to those sections of the community who don’t trust presidents more intelligent than themselves. Her chances of success however are prejudiced by the fact that seventy-two percent of Americans don’t think she should run and that seems to include her.

Rich Santorum
He doesn’t seem to have too much going for him apart from the fact he’s a Catholic. His only negative is that he’s a catholic. He may get support from the Vatican but that will depend on whether the Pope’s a catholic.

Michele Bachmann
She has already established herself as America’s leading diva but at her meetings people are disappointed when she launches into a political speech rather than an operatic aria. She’s both a Lutheran and a member of the Tea Party which could be a problem. People will forgive you for belonging to one nutty faith but not two.

Jon Huntsman
Is a Mormon and an ex-ambassador to China. He’s a nice guy but could suffer from being represented as the Manchurian Candidate from Utah.

Newt Gingrich
Another Roman Catholic who has divorced too many times to gain the support of the Pope. A highly intelligent academic who could have problems gaining support amongst women because he’s divorced most of them.

Rick Perry
This sharpshooting Methodist sheriff from Texas doesn’t hesitate to burn the bad guys and is rounding up a powerful posse for the gunfight at Obama corral.

Mitt Romney
He is good with money which gives him a huge advantage over Obama. However he suffers from health problems arising during his time as Massachusetts Governor and because he’s a Mormon the public could be suspicious he has as many wives hidden away as Arnie.

Herman Cain
He’s the ex-CEO of Godfather’s Pizza and a Baptist. He’s trying to persuade voters to have a dip at voting for him because he’s the flavour of the month and an offer they can’t refuse.

I believe Obama’s best chance against this lot is to declare himself an atheist.