Had to join in this one. After years with Harriers, watching the US at close quarters and some links with the JSF, my thoughts (and as will almost everybody much respect to John Farley):
Yes the Boeing JSF is ugly as sin. However, I can't help but feel that the direct lift idea passes the KISS test. Some real challenges there though. All I'd observe is that the aircraft is at a VERY early stage in it's development, as is the engine. Don't forget the GE alternative with more power and lots of lovely RR involvement to please the politicos.
CV or not CV? JF hits the nail square on the head when he says we have to go for what we can afford. Full up conventional carriers are HUMUNGUOUSLY expensive (ask the French) and with aircraft at around JSF weight the case for 50,000 ton or less conventional ship is dodgy to say the least. STOVL allows useful air from around 35,000 tons and up.
Navalised Eurofighter was, I believe never a goer. EF is a great BVR AD aircraft. It's a very poor cat and trap candidate, too weak, not enough range.
Let's get real. Whatever JSF we go for, we're buying into a 4th generation stealth design with avionics at least 5 years on from the F-22. What's not to like?