If I were American, I have to say I'm not really sure which effect this would have on my vote. It does kind of seem to shift the race, and what's at stake, in a way - strengthens the case for voting Republican for budget balance and fiscal responsibility reasons, for sure. I still don't think I'd vote Republican, but Ryan's selection forces me to rethink that decision than any other of the obvious VP candidates would've done, so I guess that answers my own question.

Are you really so sure this will improve his chances on the whole, though? The Republican rank and file does love to talk about austerity and small government, but when push comes to shove they're not that thrilled about Medicare being reined back, either. Or at least that's the impression one gets.