Who's more electable to a second term? Edwards or Kerry

[katieforeman]

If John Edwards is eleceted, I think he has the makings of a very popular President. He could be another John Kennedy.

Because of his ability to inspire and connect with people, John Edwards is the best candidate to make effective use of the bully pulpit of the President. This means he has the potential to get more accomplished. It also means he is likely to be more electable for a second term.

Unfortunately, Kerry's "bring it on" attitude has all the makings of another embattled President who will really struggle to be re-elected a second time.

[DrFunkenstein]

1. Actually, Kerry Has A Strong Reputation For Bi-Partisanship

Probably stemming from being in the Foreign Relations Committee, which is known for leaving normal partisanship behind. Plus, there's the McCain-type Republicans that actually want to do more than just score cheap points by attacking Kerry.

[katieforeman]

3. Unfortunately, McCain type Republicans are in short supply.

A popular President has substantially more leverage with Congress. His own party is more likely to stick with him and some on the other side may face the wrath of the voters if they oppose him.

Remember how cowed Democrats were when Bush was riding high?

[dakota_democrat]

2. I don't know about you...

but I'm a little more concerned about getting our candidate elected THIS November. Worry about 2008 when it comes.

[aldian159]

yeah

talk about putting the cart before the horse...

[katieforeman]

9. If things in Iraq take a significant turn for the worse or if the economy

gets even worse, it's likely that either candidate could win.

I think Edwards could win by a larger margin and have longer coattails which would enable him to accomplish more in office and secure a second term more easily.

These are important considerations. We do need to think ahead if we want to further a progressive agenda. This is another reason I like Edwards' optimism- he thinks we can do more than just kick Bush out.

[katieforeman]

4. Because I'm worried about this Novemeber , I'm supporting Edwards.

I am absolutely confident Edwards would win in November and I think Kerry would have a slightly better than 50% chance of winning in the general election.

We've argued to death the electability issue. I'm trying to look ahead.

[johnk101]

5. Kerry, of course.

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[DrFunkenstein]

6. That's Awesome!!!

[HFishbine]

12. What the hell?

I mean, what the hell?

[newyawker99]

13. Hi johnk101!!

Welcome to DU!! :toast:

[dae]

7. I'll worry about 2008 in 2008. Whoever gets the nomination gets my vote.

:dem::kick:

[katieforeman]

11. It's possible that either could win if Iraq and the economy go to hell.

I think Edwards is the best one to win in 2004. Even though Kerry might pull off a victory, once elected he would be severly limited in what he can accomplish by a lack of public support.

[mikehiggins]

8. LOL! I don't see either man making into the White House in the first

place.

Better start looking for someplace to hide, folks.

They'll be coming after DUers sooner or later.

Probably sooner.

[Virginian]

10. By 2008

The economy would be better, people would be back at their jobs. We would have better relations with our traditional allies. Either candidate would be better, because no one would want to go back to the economy and wars of Bush.

Well, I can dream, can't I? I know that is too much to ask for.