[LS]

Precisely because I do write history I know that candidates don't just "jump in" in November and have a hope of winning (all things being equal). But if you're going to appeal to history, Rudy has a much better chance than does Fred. At least two mayors have won nominations and run pretty close national races. The last senator to do so was JFK.

He might be having perfect timing. I hope so. But I'm beginning to fear that as the attacks start, he's going to back off. And they will start (already have).

There are organizational/structural reasons you can't wait too long to set up state and local organizations. It just flat takes too long. We in OH are already lining up the candidates for the 2008 STATE races.

[Mensius]

Precisely because I do write history I know that candidates don't just "jump in" in November and have a hope of winning (all things being equal). But if you're going to appeal to history, Rudy has a much better chance than does Fred. At least two mayors have won nominations and run pretty close national races. The last senator to do so was JFK.

Maybe I'm off, but I think things are different than SOP election cycles would dictate. With Dems for defeat and Bush and his cohorts selling out the conservatives, the time seems ripe for a candidate such as Fred. What I am concerned about is the public reaction to his 'entitlement reform' message. He is starting out by embracing the third rail. That to me, sets him apart. He has included in his campaign a plank that other candidates will not even get near.