Mephisto2

For starters, let me make clear my position. I don't like Bush. I don't like the Republicans or what they stand for, and I really really wish that Kerry will win.

However... despite the fact that I don't like GWB, I think he will probably win.

It's a shame really, as I honestly believe it will continue to damage America's standing in the world.

The problem with Kerry is that he simply has no charisma. Look at some of the more recent "great" Presidents.

- GWB Bush
- Clinton
- Reagon
- Nixon
- JFK

What did they all have? Charisma. People liked them.

Contrast and compare:

- Bush senior
- Carter
- Kerry (Presidential candidate)
- Gore (Presidential candidate)

What do they all have in common? I'm sorry to say, they're just boring.

Now I'm NOT stating that the election will be won on charisma alone. It patently will not. But it's important. Why? Well, let's consider what will win the election.

No amount of partisan mud-slinging and finger pointing will make an iota of difference to the 85%+ of Americans who have already made up their mind. Those who naturally support the Democrats will vote Democrat. Those who naturally support the Republicans will vote Republican. It is the swinging voters, those few undecided voters who will tilt the race one way or another. Now, as they are patently non-partisan, what will appeal to them?

Well, of course, the major issues like the economy, domestic social policy and Iraq (in that order I believe). But also, they will have to like the President. They will have to trust him, believe in him and actually think he's a good guy.

And, to be perfectly honest, what's there to like in Kerry?

I think Bush is a bumbling fool, and a very dangerous man, who is being played as a puppet by Cheney and big business, but shit... he's got charisma. Some of things he does bug the shit out of me, like leaning on the podium on one elbow and talking all "good old boy" crap, when he should be being Presidential... He seems more interested in playing golf than fulfiling his obligations as the most powerful man on Earth. He is patently not that intelligent. But all this matters little, as he seems popular with a lot of Middle America.

And, my fellow TFP friends, it is Middle America where the election will be won.


In four years time, the Democrats should have a "Charismo-Metre" at their convention. Anyone scoring less than a pot plant will be disqualified from running as their candidate.


Mr Mephisto