Hi Wayne,
Not to worry !! If you do a good job getting rid of the "dead wood" you won't have to worry much about another job !!
On This:
"I have heard him say some bizarre things on other topics...maybe if he keeps talking, I will be able to make up my mind about him. "
It is early, I could only encourage you (or anyone else) to "keep listening", things have not even started.
On the "bizarre things" above, clue me in, I would look into them for sure !!!
Lee