Sept 2003: Notes on John Edwards.

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John Edwards: My rating is 2 Nascar Democrats.

Just saw Senator Edwards on TV. There are some things I like about him. He is smart, as well as telegenic. He has a pretty good website- check it out here! However, I don't think he has what it takes. Here are the problems.

• We need someone who will challenge Bush- especially on Iraq. We need a candidate that can say to Bush, "why are you spending $85 billion on Iraq when our schools are falling apart?" The fact is that the war in Iraq is Bush's primary weakness. And if you are not willing to attack him on that, then you should not be running for President. You should give it up before you start.
• He needs more fire. Edwards spent half his interview complimenting various people. This ain't a tea party.
• He comes across as very Southern, starting with his accent and continuing with a variety of other issues. He has to appeal to voters across the country. I don't think Californians will be particularly enamored of him.
• He keeps talking about protecting working people. Is that code words for protectionism and trade barriers? I am not a huge fan of trade barriers.
• What about his money as a trial lawyer? How will that affect his beliefs?

You know, a guy like Edwards, I think he really should have stayed in the Senate a few more years. Maybe then a Presidential run will be in the cards!

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