I think when Fred gets in, he will take a lot of support from McCain and Romney in the short term, and from Rudy to a lesser extent. I think it will be a race between Rudy and Fred, with the victory dependent on how the McRomney supporters break. I think it will be a tough slog between the two, and hope to see Fred as our candidate.
One early indicator will be the amount of cash that heads Fred’s way in the thirty days after announcing. I know that I and a lot of people I know are holding back to support him. Not sure about the big money donors though, they will be another key.
Between the money and the initial surge, he will generate the positive news that will bring up his name recognition. HE NEEDS TO BE PERFECT IN THE THIRTY DAYS AFTER ANNOUNCING— Vibrant, Engaging, Friendly, Honest, Strong...
He has great political values and excellent personal presence. Where and when has he demonstrated leadership over anything larger than a small staff?
In the executive experience department he looks a lot like Hillary or Obama. That's a weakness that he will have to address.