[Congressman Billybob]

I have worked, as a lawyer, for a dozen independent and third-party candidates for President, since 1972. I know precisely the hoops they have to jump and the kind of money and volunteer staff they must raise, to run anything other than a symbolic campaign.

It is simply too late for any such effort to amount to a hill of beans in 2008. What Teddy Roosevelt did in 1912, and LaFollette did in 1924, is impossible today because the Republicans and Democrats have jointly written the laws to prevent such events from occurring.

A billionaire, with high name recognition, and high favorables, right now, could possibly do it. But any ordinary candidate, starting next February (when the R and D nominees will probably be known) will have NO LEGAL CHANCE to mount a consequential third-party effort.

Running for President is not like a Mickey Rooney movie, "Hey, kids, let's put on a show!" and in the next scene they have sets, orchestra, chorus line, etc. Only one of my clients, John Anderson, ever had the remotest chance of winning any Electoral College votes. All the rest meant nothing in the outcome of the election. The same will be true this year.

John / Billybob

[scratcher]

It is simply too late for any such effort to amount to a hill of beans in 2008.

bttt 

[karnage]

Although like many on FR, I disagree with Giuliani on many important issues, I like him. I read his book on leadership, which impressed me, and I liked the way he handled the hostile NYC media. I think he understands the WOT and would make a good president.

What I liked most about your column was the insight that Giuliani could attract crossover votes on a significant scale. I live and work in *gasp* Hollywood, and one of the very few things upon which I agree with my liberal colleagues is willingness to consider Giuliani.