Thursday, March 27, 2008

Obama-Bloomberg Boomlet

As dream tickets go, this one would go deep into the American unconscious and produce either a catharsis or a nightmare.

Today's surprise embrace of Barack Obama in New York by Mayor Mike Bloomberg sets off speculation about an endorsement, but more than that, the possibility that they might share the Democratic ticket for November.

The pluses are obvious: Bloomberg would bring to Obama the managerial skills he is accused of lacking, a Jewish partner to offset doubts raised by the Rev. Jeremiah Wright flap, credibility in handling a recession as well as a billionaire's deep pockets for campaign funds.

The Mayor, according to Obama, has been "a remarkable leader for New York--he has established himself as a major voice in our national debate on issues like renewing our economy, educating our children, and seeking energy independence. Mr. Mayor, I share your determination to bring this country together to finally make progress for the American people."

For the two to share more than that, the once Democrat turned Republican now an Independent would have to convince his former political allies that he would bring more to the party and Democratic candidates across the country than the combined racial and religious prejudice would take away.

But in this extraordinary year, when there are even renewed rumors about a McCain-Condoleezza Rice pairing, speculation won't go away.

1 comment:

Liza said...

I say it's speculation about Obama-Bloonberg. The media speculated the same thing about Governor Bill Richardson. Every high profile person who speaks to Obama is a potential VP now.

However, the VP choice is going to factor very large into the election. That is partly because Cheney has been so powerful as a VP and partly because McCain is perceived by many as being ready to drop dead.