I agree that a strong reelection as governor, preferrably of a large state (Arkansas being an exception) is a major qualification, however I don't necessarily agree with the second point. Neither Bush 43, nor Clinton, Reagan and Carter held a federal office before moving into 1600 Penn Ave. Senator Graham, according to the second point, should have tremendous qualifications (Gore might have won if he had picked Graham as VP); however I think spending too much time in the Senate might actually hurt one's Presidential chances.
Americans don't like dynasties. Jeb shouldn't think about running until 2012, even if he does run. A 2008 bid to oust Bill Nelson would be ideal.
I foresee problems with that campaign .... no opponent!
I think you mean 2006.
Proper credentials for the presidency [includes] . . . attainment of national office within about a dozen years of attaining the governorship.I agree that a strong reelection as governor, preferrably of a large state (Arkansas being an exception) is a major qualification, however I don't necessarily agree with the second point. Neither Bush 43, nor Clinton, Reagan and Carter held a federal office before moving into 1600 Penn Ave.
"National office" means the presidency or the vice presidency.I wish I could find the posting from some years back - probably 2000 - to the effect that nobody has been elected president who didn't at least make it to VP - and usually to the presidency itself - within either 12 or 14 years of reaching statewide (governor or senator) office. Essentially, people reach a level where they can be considered for president - and either attain national office within a dozen years, or fade from the picture
According to that theory, as well as the executive experience theory, John Kerry (20 years a senator, never an executive above the level of Navy Lieutenant) should not win against a sitting president with no primary opposition (Carter, GHWB), no parasitic opposition in the general election (GHWB, and to an extent Carter), and no fingerprints on a catastrophe of Great Depression (Hoover) or Vietnam (Johnson) proportions.
Which is why I think that when push comes to shove the aparent polling strength of John Kerry will dissipate. I also doubt that Kerry's standing will get a big bounce out of the convention, and I suspect that his polls will seriously take a hit when his record of admant opposition to "Right Wing Cold Warriors" is contrasted with the legacy of his greatest adversary, President Ronald Reagan of blessed memory. In film he exhorted us to "win one for the Gipper:" in real life "the Gipper" just may win one more for us.