December 18, 2006
Second Runs
In the last 7 WH races, at least one of the major parties has nominated someone who was making at least their 2nd run.
For now, at least 3 candidates are embarking on 2nd runs in '08: McCain, Edwards and Biden (with Gore a possible 4th). Not surprisingly, all three are trying new tacks for their second bids. McCain has evolved from insurgent to establishment; Edwards is going from fresh face to crusader; and Biden is vying for the seasoned veteran mantle (we're not even going to try to classify Biden's '88 theme).
McCain's shift is the most historically viable. Republicans have nominated the second place insurgent three times since '80.
The most risky change is the Edwards strategy. Not since McGovern have the Dems actually nominated the crusader. Then again, maybe Edwards had no choice. The establishment is with Clinton; the fresh-face crowd is with Obama and Edwards can't pull off senior statesman. Edwards better hope Gore doesn't block the crusade path.
Posted at 12:33 PM
Comments
Al Gore embarking on a possible 4th bid? He ran in 1988 and 2000. Which third bid am I missing?
Chris DeRose | 12.18.06 02:14 PM
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Please stop ignoring Kucinich!
Tom | 12.18.06 11:48 PM
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