I would think the "Condi '08" garbage would be pushed with all the "44" nickname stories behind it.
Look for Dick Morris to hit O'Reilly and push his book even harder.
I think he's about as likely as Hillary to run in 2008 (for some of the same reasons). The man's in questionable health and I'm sure that's not getting better with age. He's been a hate magnet ever since they've been in office. He's said he's not gonna run.
The man is rich and he's old. I'm VERY glad he's been in there these last few years, but I have a hard time seeing him wanting to mess with a Presidential run. Why should he put up with that crap? Given the pure hate he attracted as a VP, it's safe to be that campaign would be a bloodbath.
On the 19th, I suggested:
I [recommend] Donald Rumsfeld.
If the Vice President wishes to step aside [during] this term in office, then I think Rumsfeld is best able to continue a strong stand against terror, and least likely to be dragged down by PC concerns.
His vigor and energy are twice that of younger men, and we have clearly seen that he has conceded nothing to age.
Interestingly, in a recent speech to the National Press Club, when Rumsfeld was asked if he were planning to fade into the sunset, he said, and I paraphrase closely, "Dick Nixon said that you wouldn't have him [Nixon] to kick around anymore. I'm saying no such thing!"
Go, Rummy, go!
PS: The following is an Official Prediction. First time announced! Ready? Here goes...
Vice-President Cheney resigns after January 20 2007. The President appoints the best qualified person to replace him. And that person is not Condi Rice, but Don Rumsfeld.
The Congress can't really turn down the appointment. And, with Rumsfeld as the new Vice-President, he takes the inside track for the 2008 nomination.
The President is one hell of a poker player, isn't he?
I stand by my prediction!
So is this retirement like the pre-'02 elections Cheney retirement, pre-'04 elections Cheney retirement, or post-'04 elections retirement? I can't keep track of 'em all!
Of course that's it....hello...
More likely a front runner for 2008 would emerge in DC's replacement.