By running, Gore could help Dems define themselves

[Karmadillo]

http://www.suntimes.com/output/orourke/cst-edt-rour06.html

BY WILLIAM O'ROURKE

Al Gore should reconsider his decision not to run for the Democratic presidential nomination for 2004. Why? Look around at what is happening to the Democrats since Gore bowed out last December: the party splintering into its demographic pieces, name-calling among the jostling group running, conflicting and contradictory policies being touted.

A large field of contenders is hardly a pretty sight. Bob Dole in 1996 emerged from a sizable Republican crowd and the primary season left Dole looking dazed and over-extended. George W. Bush in 2000 employed his own shock and awe fund-raising campaign during the primaries and the marginals dropped out early. Bush had only to fight off John McCain, using the state of South Carolina as the site of McCain's last stand. The Republican base had spoken and Bush sailed into the nomination.

Indeed, Bush was less beaten up in the primary season than was Al Gore. Bill Clinton served as his most stiff competition, not the other Bill--Bill Bradley--insofar as Clinton's baggage hounded Gore throughout the primaries and the general election.

This time around there is no front-runner in the large Democratic field. The fact that Howard Dean--two months ago a curious long shot--is now considered a leading contender shows the lack of heft available. Joe Lieberman has revealed himself to be what he was: a decent prospect for vice president.

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[bryant69]

1. Two Perspectives

From the Party's perspective, this might be a very solid idea. Al Gore would bring some excitement to the party--and he would make short work of most of his challengers (although Dean and Kunicich would probably continue to slam him as a centrist).

But from Al Gore's perspective, this campaign would be rough, dirty, and unpleasent--and he'd have a better chance of winning in 2008. I'm not sure I would want in.

Bryant
Check it out --> http://politicalcomment.blogspot.com

[Ellen Forradalom]

2. Mr. O'Rourke wouldn't recognize democracy

if it hit him over the head. I'm sorry the rough-and-tumble of politics is too much for his delicate constitution. Someone pass him the smelling salts.

[He loved Big Brother]

3. Exactly.

Oooooh noooo, conflicting ideas! So SCARY!