He was a "legit Pres. contender" in his own mind. Just as are all U.S. Senators. And even if he manages to eek out a narrow victory over Webb, Allen will remain a "legit Pres. contender" in his own mind. Heck, even if he loses to Webb, Allen will remain a "legit Pres. contender" in his own mind. Think Tom Daschle...
Senatorial egos are not effected by reality.
that is true.
Any Senator with a full head of hair thinks he is Pres. material.
And yet, only Governors win.