Late Bloomer

Wesley Clark is coming ever closer to declaring and while I've been intrigued by the possibility since Senator Hart decided not to run, many observers - myself included - have been getting antsy and letting their attention wander while the General makes up his mind. Now, with his promised decision drawing closer Washington Monthly has a must-read piece on why he might be able to win the primaries despite the late start.

Arguably, Clark matches each of the strengths of the current crop of contenders, and then raises them one. His Army background--stretching from Vietnam to Kosovo--out-oomphs Kerry's military record. His service as commander of NATO forces compares favorably to Dean's executive experience as governor of a small New England state. He adds gravitas to Edwards's aesthetic appeal, charisma to Lieberman's thoughtfulness, and sincerity to Gephardt's liberal policies.

That's why more and more Democratic insiders are beginning to argue that--at least in theory--Clark is the best candidate to beat Bush in a general election. The problem, they say, is that it's too late for Clark to make a primary run. Campaigns and Elections 101 teaches that it takes time to acquire name recognition, to build a field organization, to raise the funds to be competitive, to gain endorsements, and to acquire the myriad of intangible skills that it takes to run a winning campaign.

But this time, the conventional wisdom may be wrong.

[via Political Wire]