Well never having actually been elected to anything I will bow to your superior understanding of the process.
I guess I just don’t remember anything much being said about either Bill Clinton prior to 1992 nor GW Bush prior to 2000. Seems to me the ONLY people who are all hyped up about this are the hyper political junkies and the Drive By Media. Most people I talk to simply don’t care right now or are seriously irritated by the whole hype starting this far out.
I couldn't agree more.
But this is like the old gasoline wars. If the competitor across the street (fellow politician) drops his price by 10% (decides to announce almost two years before the election) what are you going to do? If you don't follow his lead (announce way early also) he's gonna eat your lunch (snap up all the best "consultants" and big money donors). So, even though you may not want to, you're forced into at least matching his price.
Every day that Fred Thompson delays his announcement is a blessing in disguise. He's already on the record as saying he's not interested in "big name" consultants. Given his excellent name recognition and ability to connect with his audience I'd say that's brilliant.
Here's three interesting questions:
1. Who was the first politician, from either party, to announce the formation of an exploratory committee?
2. When (date) did this happen?
3. Got a link?