|
Listen, as far as the nastiness and vitriol that has been a large part of this thread, you should be ashamed. Varying views and opinions are what make this country great and actually make us stronger. Dems do need to take a long look at their party and determine were they want to go. Reps need to realize that while they do have a pretty substantial victory, they do not truly have a sizable or stable mandate. They do control the House, Senate and Executive Branch and most likely will introduce a signifiacant Conservative bent into the Judicial Branch. However, this is a significant responsibilty, one they best not abuse.
As far as the ACTUAL TOPIC!
If his health holds up, McCain will run and will be a formidable opponent. Rudy has WAY too much baggage and I think he knows this. If he wants the White House, I think he needs some sort of official post, either elected or appointed. Bill Owens is a posibility, but I am not sure. Pataki is going to run, but I don't see him as being a player. Bill Frist is said to have his eye on 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., and by all accounts he is a tricky one. There is also rumor that Chuck Hagel is considering a run and I think he would be a good candidate. Jeb has said time and again he will not run. I think he has his eye on the Senate (pure speculation).
As far as the Dems, Hillary is an obvious choice. I think she is qualified, but it would be quite a battle. Richardson and Vilsack are strong contenders. Edwards has a surprisingly strong constituency within the party and particularly with the party money people. If he can find a way to keep his name in the public forum (maybe DNC Chair?) he may have a chance. Obama seems patient and is only 43(I think this is right) so he has many years to develop this. I personally would like to see Joe Biden or Bob Kerrey make a run. Also, while Dems generally don't like a loser, John Kerry may still run again. Many have said the Dems need a southerner, but who would that be?
If the stipulation about being born in America is overturned, look for a possible Schwartzenegger(sp?) run or as VP, but also look at a Jennifer Granholm run or possible V.P.
If he runs, I think McCain will take the nomination and likely the White House. I really can't say who the Dems will turn to, their are just too many questions to be answered before we know where the party is headed. Someone within the Democratic Party need to come through with a strong, clear vision if they want to succeed.
__________________
Human beings, who are almost unique in having the ability to learn from the experience of others, are also remarkable for their apparent disinclination to do so."
-Douglas Adams
|