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Don't overlook Edwards

Posted: Thursday, December 28, 2006 11:31 AM by Jen Brown

All the pundits and publicity now focus on Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama to win the Democratic presidential nomination in 2008.

Don’t get stampeded into believing all this.   When it comes time for the Democrats of Iowa and other early contests to pick someone to run they will be looking for the candidate who is the best shot at winning in November.

Just think about the passion of the rank-and-file Democrat.  Twelve years of Republican control of Congress going back to Newt Gingrich who they despise.  Eight years of Republican control of the White House.  They want it back, and they are not likely to want another loser standing out there once the votes are counted.

This is the case for John Edwards, the case he will be making between now and a year from now.   He’ll be saying that Hillary and Barack can draw the crowds in January; he can draw the votes in November. 

Expect that message to hit home first with the labor unions who dearly want a friend in the White House.  Edwards is running well ahead in Iowa, the first contest for ’08.   Given his support from key unions he has a good chance to match a win in Iowa with a win in Nevada the Saturday afterward.  That could give him a real momentum heading into New Hampshire the following Tuesday.  A strong showing there could catapult him to victory in South Carolina the week later.

This is the Edwards chance: win early; knock out Obama, get into a long, drawn-out fight with Hillary with him as the only live alternative.    It could happen.

 

 

 

Click image to watch Chris Matthews discuss John Edwards

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Comments

Isn't a big part of what has been wrong the past 12 years in large part caused by big business interests? A trial lawyer that sues big business is exactly what we need. It is time for someone to stand up for the majority of the American people, not just for the wealthy top 1%.

The Edge, Maco GA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:45 PM)

I feel the people in our party need to remember that we need a candidate that can win the election. While the idea of Hillary or Obama is novel it will not win the election. However, I believe that an Edwards/Obama ticket would produce our best chance for victory!

Gary Dessen,Lancaster,PA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:46 PM)

I heard John's message firsthand in early 2004, and it resonated with me. I believe John Edwards is the "right man at the right time" to help restore this country's moral authority, draw down our troops in Iraq, strengthen our middle class, guarantee health care for every single American, lead the fight against global warming, and break our addiction to oil. Count me enthusiastically in!

Janette Sexton, Pasadena, Texas (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:48 PM)

John Edwards, as is true of Obama, has a pretty face but not enough experience or maturity for the awsome job of President. Star quality can get you a nomination for President in the spring and summer, but the experience factor takes over in the voting booth in November. There are many democrat governors with the political and executive expereince to qualify them for the Presidency. These young men may someday qualify, but for now, bring on a more mature and proven leader.

Randy Hatfield, Amarillo, TX (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:50 PM)

If the right-wingers want a true moral family in the White House, then the Edwards are it. They have faced the greatest of adversities with grace and dignity, walking away with greater humility and understanding. They are smart,kind and open. John and his family can bring a new, bright leadership to this country. I feel like there is a light at the end of the dark 6 year tunnel we have been in!

chris, Eagle, CO (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:51 PM)

Im happy to see John Edwards in the race...Edwards/Obama would get my vote

fiesal khan (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:52 PM)

Draft Gore.

norbert bauer jackson michigan (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:52 PM)

It seems to me that the most intelligent, candid candidate of the group that have appeared on your show is Joe Biden. Why is it, do you think, that he hasn't been able to get much traction in the early stages of the race? Yes, he loves to hear himself speak, but it's usually a whole lot more interesting and forthright than most others My preferences (in Order) are Biden, Clinton, Edwards, Obama and virtually any other breathing non Republican!

Corky Bogert Port Deposit, MD (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:55 PM)

John Edwards is trial lawyer. Can we pick soemone lower on the moral food chain ? He personally abused the tax code on some enormous profits. He is a slick polished guaranteed loser.

Bill, Chicago IL (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:55 PM)

John Edwards is the only true Democrat running. His two-Americas message, says it all. I will vote for him in the primary and November.

Roland Boggio (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 1:57 PM)

John Edwards is for the working classes of America and would be the perfect choice for the Democratic nominee! The Republicans don't have anyone that could oppose a Edwards/Obama ticket & win. John Edwards is what this country needs & it can't happen too soon. Let's get Bush & his Republican croonies out of the White House! Enough of our soldiers have died & in vain just so Bush & Cheney can line their pockets with the spoils from the Iraqi oilfields. Edwards has my vote!

Trish B, St. Louis MO (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:00 PM)

Please, do we really want a ambulance chasing trial lawer who is a mouth piece for big labor sitting in the White House? The two things the Democrats need less of is mush-mouth Southerners and Massachuestts politicians.

Dutch, Rydal, PA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:01 PM)

I Voted for him and I will vote for him again. I think of John Edwards as a person who will bring stability and security to this country. We need leadership and someone who knows what America needs not what big companies and corporations need. EDWARD 08 FOR PRESIDENT

Johnny Sanabria Huntington Beach, ca (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:03 PM)

Chris: Enjoy your show nightly. We need a person, possibly John Edwards is the one, who can re-energize our American spirit and soul. I feel that the Bush administration has up rooted that soul. Working together as a nation, the way we did during Roosevelt's administration or John F. Kennedy's administration, is when America is at its best. For too long we have become selfish as a nation and we need to rethink our attitudes and show the future generations what the American Spirit is really about.

Faith Levine, Weston, FL (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:03 PM)

i dont vote BUT i will if Edwards wins the democratic nomination. I think he needs to consider Obama for a running mate. It would bring sensibility back to our country.

jetcri (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:06 PM)

Obama and Hillary can draw crowds and cash, but by November one would be exposed as OBambi and the other would leave voters with a cold Chillary. John Edwards can attract new faces with new ideas and restore our image in the world.

Greg, Lexington, Kentucky (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:06 PM)

Like Bill Clinton in 1992, John Edwards has no bankroll. And like our former president, John Edwards is infinitely more electable, financially trustworthy and campaign-ready than any other potential candidate in the D-field. His message, "take action," resonates strong with me and all those who are sick of the R-team flushing away America's moral, social and financial strength. Here's what it means to you and me: "raise money now for this campaign." That's the action I'm taking. What about you?

Jay Whitehead, West Orange, NJ (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:06 PM)

I pray that God will put a president in office of His choosing. Think about that for a minute. Democrat or Republican..does it really matter if the person is one of true character. One who will put the better of the country ahead of his own will. We need to stop bashing those in office and start praying for them, regardless of their political affiliation. WE need to be praying for those who will be taking office in the next election. Political parties aside...we are ONE NATION UNDER GOD. Let's not forget that.

kel, phila,PA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:06 PM)

I had a difficult time stopping laughing at the image of an Edwards/Hillary ticket. Anyone who thinks she would even entertain a second spot hasn't seen the look in her eye! I'll go for the Edwards/Obama ticket anytime AND for a 16 year Obama influence! It'll take that long for him to role model America out of the bad habits of the Republicans!

Marti, Syracuse, NY (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:08 PM)

My wife and I had the incredible pleasure of 1) campaigning for Senator Edwards in his last campaign, and 2) being present when he spoke recently at William Penn University. Voters - Citizens: this is a person of integrity, GENUINE family values, articulation, expansive knowledge base, and vision for our country. My wife and I have already committed to the Edwards '08 Campaign, and look forward to working hard. The hard work we seek is on behalf of those willing to roll up their sleeves and rebuild the destruction of the past 6 years. Doubters: learn who and what Senator Edwards is. To pre-judge, out of ignorance, would be a sad decision indeed. It is imperative that a viable Democratic candidate is offered in '08. I fear the Republican potential candidates, as they stand today, would be little more than articulate George Bush clones. Senator Edwards deserves a good, hard look as our President, for we have not had a legitimate White House resident for 6 years.

Mylon L. Stark, Oskaloosa, Iowa (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:08 PM)

I am shocked that Biden is not getting more play, more media touting, and more excitement. He is exactly what this country needs right now. A no nonesense man who also has enough expertise in so many areas that he can really use his political capital to get things done, both in congress as well as on the global stage

Rob Rakossy, East Brunswick, NJ (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:09 PM)

How refreshing it would be to have Edwards in the White House...He has family values, and is what the United States needs to get us back to the country we were once know for.. I think he and the late president Gerald Ford shared some of the same ideas on this Bush war in Iraq. Bring it on home Mr. Edwards

Alene Watkins - Atlanta GA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:10 PM)

John Edwards didn't do a thing for North Carolinians as Senator. He shouldn't even get credit for serving a full term since he spent approximately a third of the time campaigning. The labor unions support him, yet he is from one of the most unfriendly states with regard to worker and union rights. What has he accomplished while in public service? Of course, in the private sector we can thank him for contributing to the high cost of health insurance (someone has to pay for the multimillion dollar lawsuits that made him rich).

Lori, Cary, NC (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:13 PM)

The process needs John Edwards in, just like it needs a Joe Biden or anyone else who wants to run. It was unfortunate the Evan Bayh dropped out. Edwards has done this once before which should give him an edge in the perils of a campaign. As of right now, he would get my early vote, but there is still some vetting to do on the rest of the field. He may be a trial lawyer but he started with nothing and has experienced personal tragedy, all building blocks for someone seeking the office of the Presidency.

Mark, Dunkirk, NY (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:16 PM)

It is about time the Dem's have someone I WILL VOTE FOR! I am a REPUBLICAN looking for a reason to change, JOHN EDWARDS is my reason. With EDWARDS as president and OBAMA as Vice President....I am voting Dem's this time! TAHNK YOU FOR GETTING JOHN EDWARDS to run WITHOUT John Kerry!

Still Hoping (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:19 PM)

John Edwards is from North Carolina. Guess what? He did not even win his own state in 2004. His platform is based on "Poverty in America". John Edwards is still an extreme left wing liberal and his socialists ideas must not prevail. Vote for Conservative Republicans.

Fred Bridges Mooresville, North Carolina (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:19 PM)

After the past six years of the village idiot and his cronies, the Democrats have their best chance ever to take back the presidency. Please don't blow it! Hillary has too many negative feelings and may not be able to overcome them. Barack Obama is riding high in the polls but his perceived inexperience may hurt him, plus the Bradley effect. Joe Biden is very knowledgeable and experienced but suffers from foot-in-mouth-disease. I think Edwards has a good chance of making it. And if Obama agreed to be his running mate, I think they would be very strong.

Lew, CA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:22 PM)

Winning ticket? Edwards/Obama, and don't tell mamma!!! Let's move America to the front again with these two afterburners..

Tito, Whittier, CA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:24 PM)

I'll be blunt. The Democrats know the presidency is their's to lose in '08 and will not jeopardize votes by running a black male or any female. So John Edwards wins the nomination by virtue of being a white male. However, I could see him putting Obama on the ticket as VP.

Julie, San Antonio TX (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:33 PM)

I will gladly cast my vote for John Edwards, he is the main reason I voted Kerry/Edwards in '04. Unlike the current president, he has a brain and he uses it. It's time to start taking care of America, in particular middle-class Americans such as myself, who are going broke fueling their cars and, despite making a decent buck that gave me success and security in the Clinton years, has plummeted me near bankruptcy under the Bush administration. It's time to be concerned about our people at home and that includes bringing back the young men and women who so valiantly stay in Iraq fighting for what?! Go John Edwards! Add Obama as the VP and it's a done deal.

Elizabeth, Chicago, IL (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:49 PM)

Some really good commentary. I agree there's a real opportunity for a Dem to win in 2008. I also agree they had the same opportunity in '00 and '04 but nominated mushes. If we're not on the way out of Iraq a year from now, Hillary can and will win. Otherwise, McCain/Lieberman or McCain/Giuiliani sweeps the nation.

Charlie Fetscher (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:51 PM)

Correction to this statement: "Edwards is running well ahead in Iowa". NO is he not running well ahead nor even ahead, he is TIED with OBAMA (22%, clinton 10%). In the Iowa gen election poll Obama or Edwards (both 43-42%) are ahead of the Repubs (McCain or Guiliani 38-39%). Of all the possible candidates from both parties, Obama is the only one that has the intellect, charima, leadership potential to be a GREAT President not just another office holder.

GER, Seattle WA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:52 PM)

John Edwards (and his wonderful wife) has a much better shot at winning in Nov. 2008 than anyone else except for Wes Clark. Edwards looks good on camera (whereas John McCain, the likely Repub. candidate, looks like his face is going to explode any moment). John can appeal to rich and poor alike, because he really does care about the poor and the working-class, but he is actually rich. He's going to be labeled again as that money-grubbing ambulance chasing lawyer, but it really can work for him if he just embraces the fact that he's good at defending those who have been injured by others. I still prefer Wes Clark because of the many military problems that will still be draining this country in 2008.

Jeff Hendrickson from Ohio (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:53 PM)

Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are both fine candidates but we need someone who can win and win big!! I’m an African American and I know that America is not ready for a woman and they are not ready for an African American. This is the sad truth and Democrats better realize it so we can change this country into what it should be - back to the greatest country in the world. Edwards reminds me of my favorite president, Bill Clinton – minus the skirt chasing.

Pamela Butler, Los Angeles, CA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:55 PM)

Edwards/Obama all the way...This combo will "clean house" of any of those deep-pocketed right-wingers in bed with oil companies and viagra producers. Our people need jobs...not big business getting tax breaks to move their operations overseas. As others have said, the centrist position is the most appealing for any candidate to take. Too far left or right means special interests. We are all Americans, with the need to provide for our families, have affordable healthcare, and be able to retire with dignity...hopefully before we die first. As for the ties with labor...remember these are the only ones fighting for fair wages and benefits such as healthcare and pensions to name a few. Big business knows what the efforts of our labor are worth. Most of them simply don't want a middle class nor do they want "Joe Q. Public" to enjoy the same things as they do, or even a fraction thereof! History has shown that greed and corruption are the downfalls of capitalism. I'm proud to be an American and believe in the system as it was intended. We've forgotten about the people somewhere along the way, and it is essential that we get back on that path. A John Edwards/Barack Obama ticket provides us with the best chance of this turnaround, but it will probably take at least two terms to repair the problems.

Next Of Kin/Erie,PA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:56 PM)

All others democrats and repablicans alike in the packs in their parties to run for prasidend in the year 2008 probably are good people. But mr.John Edwards Has the vition to unite the country . The freshness of the imagination to meke one America. The ability to restore faith of the oeople on our leaders.Reduse the defisit. get beter payinn jobs for americans .To restore respect and dignity of the country arrownd the world in other nations.And the aura of the late presidend John F. Kenedy.

Harry Blanas.Anchorage Alaska, 5616 S. Tahiti L. Z.C. 99507 (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:58 PM)

John Edwards has several things in his favor! 1.) He is unemployed and looking for a job. 2.) Plus all the things Chris highlighted above. 3.) And "59,028,111" Americans voted for him to be a heart beat away from the top job he is only candidate in the race that can say that. I don't see Kerry or Cheney running in 2008. Historically Americans have always voted men to the white house that are nationally know for years, Bill Clinton Jimmy Carter are the only two that buck that trend in recent years. It's going to be an interesting race and it's not going to be over until Nov. 2008. PS Man that seems like such a life time away!

Andrew, Germantown MD (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 2:59 PM)

For two years I have stated that I would support Hillary if she ran...that changed the moment John Edwards said he was running. The reason is simple, I want a democrat in the White House, Edwards can win.

Susan Brewer, The Woodlands, TX (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:01 PM)

I agree fully that Dem's can not afford to take the chance of running a black male or any female in 08. It is to much of a risk factor this time around. Would be great to try if we were coming out of two term Democrat President.

Christopher, Elizabeth, Indiana (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:05 PM)

I would LOVE seeing John Edwards as President!! What a breath of fresh air after the gloomy Nightmare that is the Bush MisAdministration!! Edwards/Obama VP with Hillary dealing with Health Care, Gore with the Enviroment/ Global Warming, Wesley Clark with Defense, Joe Biden and Russ Feingold in the Cabinet--WORKS FOR ME!!

Terry Lamb (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:06 PM)

While Edwards has some admirable qualities, the fact remains he did nothing for the 04 ticket. He could not even help to win his hometown. It pains me to admit this, Cheney trounced him in that debate in 04! With all the ever changing world events going on, there is only one guy who I want in the White House!. JOE BIDEN!

Chris McGurty, Waltham, MA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:09 PM)

A little education is in order for those who attack John Edwards/trial lawyer for contributing to the high cost of health insurance. About 1% of the cost of health care is directly attributable to lawsuits. Google it. Funny how everyone hates lawyers until they need one. As for "President John Edwards," he seems well suited for the job. He's intelligent, articulate and understands the world we live in. All attributes sorely missing from the current oval office resident. Experience would be a factor if I hadn't witnessed the absolute worldwide disaster the current administration has created with some of the most experienced public servants available. Edwards gets my support and Elizabeth will be a tremendous advantage for his campaign.

Doreen Consiglio, Ypsilanti, Michigan (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:14 PM)

Edwards has been very busy working throughout the World to try to improve the impressions that the World has about America. Bush has done his best in turning the World against us. Edwards has not forgotten what needs to be done in USA in improving healthcare, poverty and the middle class.What about a ticket of Edward's at the top and a v.p. Obama. That could take care of the next 16 years and give Obama some more seasoning.

LES DILLIN (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:15 PM)

I'm all in on Edwards. However the same concerns will be leveled against him as for Obama, not much experience. Didn't matter with Bush since he had the family name, but those opposed to Edwards will try to "Swiftboat" him as a tort lawyer, or "Slick Eddie" or some such nonsense. Already my right wing friends are on the attack against Edwards, maybe they are afraid of his chnaces? A young, handsome candidate like Edwards vs. McCain ? With all due respect to Sen. McCain, I'll take Edwards. Of course the opponents to McCain are already painting him as "The Manchurian Candidate".

Brian J. - Rockville, MD (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:18 PM)

What about Gore-Edwards in 08. Gore won the popular vote in 00 and could do it again if he ran hard against the Republican attack machine.

Richard Richardson, Baltimore, MD (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:28 PM)

Actually, the latest poll from Iowa shows Obama and Eduwards tied for first place. The polls that show him ahead significantly are kind of outdated. Also, Frank Luntz focused grouped him with IA and NH voters, and found that his support dropped like a prom dress after the dance. Edwards isn't as electable as people think...Republicans will pound him to the absolute ground on issues of moral fuzziness the same way they did with Al Gore and John Kerry. His wife's comments on Mrs. Clinton might also turn off suburban women.

Nadia Hassan Alpharetta, Georgia (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:31 PM)

I can't believe that everyone is so blindly pledging allegiance to this Edwards clown! This is a guy that is a trial lawyer that won his fortune in a class action lawsuit based on junk science! Although, maybe Michael J. Fox will be healed and Christopher Reeve will be risen from the dead! You must remember he PROMISED Christopher Reeve would walk if he and John Kerry were elected in 04! He'll look like a deer in the headlights again on the national stage and get crushed again, but it was a nice photo op in New Orleans!

Jeff, Roseville CA (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:34 PM)

It is time to take our country back from this so-called president, George W. Bush. It is also important not to turn it over to his buddies, the Republicans, who place a higher worth on the richest 1%; as if that makes you more worthy of clean air, affordable health care, livable wages, comprehensive education, an un-tampered vote, or guaranteed retirement. Who ever we side with (my choices are Obama or Edwards) must be willing and able to put the constitution back on the agenda of american government!

Ryan Leenders, Everett Washington (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:35 PM)

We need someone to run for president who can talk to the Nation without a smirk on their face as Bush and Cheney always do. Someone who does not have the attitude of it's my way or the highway. Whether that's Edwards, Biden or someone else, we just need someone we can look up too as our leader.

Lowell Cromer Aurora, Indiana (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:37 PM)

I'm from Texas, and I think that for all of the people who voted for Bush (once or twice) and now are saying "Well, we thought he'd do better, etc..." should have KNOWN BETTER after the first time! Based upon what the media showed us of Edwards in '04, I believe he'd do 100000% better than Bush Jr. could even hope to do for our country! Good luck to him!

Shaun Johnston, Lewisville, TX (Sent Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:44 PM)



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