06/16/2002 Archived Entry: "Vermont: All Dems ahead, but Bush leading Dean"

Dean is polling 40% against Bush, but it's in his home state, and Bush is getting 45% Here's the excuse: "The Bush edge was likely the result of other factors, primarily Bush’s popularity as a wartime president and some disapproval by Vermonters of Dean running while he was still governor." I would buy that, but still, those numbers should be reversed. Dean needs at least a lead against Bush in his homestate, or it's hopeless for him going onto 2004. Robinson speculates that Dean is running for VP. Robinson speculates that Dean's candidacy will fail, due to not having enough money. I doubt that would be the reason. McCain had little funds, but after he won NH, he got over $1M overnight from internet contributions. Dean did have his own success though, in Bush's home state. Dean not only spoke to the delegates at the Texas convention. He was the only invited speaker who is a probable 2004 candidate---the rest were specifically disinvited. Dean also attended the Democratic Chair's after-party, and a Stonewall Democrat's after-dinner.

WCAX/Rutland Herald/ Time Argues poll conducted by Research 2000
In the race to replace Dean in the governor’s office, fellow Democrat and current Lt. Gov. Douglas Racine held an edge over the presumptive Republican candidate, state Treasurer James Douglas. Both swamped the independent candidate, former Human Services Secretary Cornelius Hogan.

The poll indicated Racine would take 40 percent of the vote if the election were held today, while Douglas would get 31 percent and Hogan 5 percent. Fully 24 percent of voters were undecided.

Replies: 2 comments

It is my opinion, unless things change drastically that Democrats are going to have to go out and pick a face in politics that is familiar but a new name in order to win in 2004. The current list of candidates have not seemed willing to attack Bush on issues he is vulnerable on it seems they are more interested in doing what is popular than do what is right. I want to see a democrat who challenges Bush on the abuse of the bill or rights and other issues.

I would love to see somebody like George Mitchell run. while he may be old I think he has the respect in the American public's eyes that is needed to challenge Bush on the issues of war and domestic policy.

On the ticket with Mitchell I would like to see somebody like Bob Kerry. while Bob Kerry is not as progressive as I would like, he would bring some of the plains states into play. Of course, Kerry would have to answer questions about his role in Vietnam but I think that those question could be answered.

Some other Candidates I would like to see considered for Vice-President are Blanche Lambert Lincoln and Mary Landrieu who I think would allow the ticket to carry a state in the south and also appeal to women voters. Bob Graham also would be a name to consider also. He has gained in publicity since 9-11 and would be a well liked and well respect name not only in Florida but across the Country.

If Ron Kirk wins the senate race in Texas he is also a name that must be considered. However I don't think he would bring Texas to the democratic column and that would be a major drawback.

Well I'll be out of town all day tomorrow but I would like to see some other thoughts on this subject and what other people thought when I come back tomorrow night.

Thanks

Posted by Derrick @ 06/20/2002 08:14 PM PST

I agree with you on Graham. He has not been considered before because he is a prolific note-taker, but he could easily turn this into an asset. "Bush should take more notes."

We are looking at Gore, Edwards, Kerry, Gepardt, Lieberman, and Dean. Maybe Daschle (probably not), and probably Sharpton.

I really doubt that anyone else might run, if so, we should know by 6-8 months, as after that, it's too late.

I'll post right now on the most plausible scenario, from today's perspective.

Posted by myDD @ 06/21/2002 06:31 AM PST