StudioGlyphic

So Dean's out of the race. What now? Looking at the remaining candidates, I prefer the son of the millworker.

Kerry has tremendous advantages in the general election due to his unlimited funds and the experience/capabilities of his organization. His biggest drawback is that he's uninspiring (and slimy), and that might suppress voter turnout. Al Gore 2000 without the charisma. I also think he'd be a mediocre President. Clinton in the midst of Monica Lewinsky without the excuse. I just don't like him. If he wins the nomination, I'll support him, of course.

Edwards is a very persuasive speaker. He can inspire passion among Democrats and has a lot of cross-over appeal (look at the exit polls). That's very important to getting the votes out in this close race. His lack of experience and voting record will be used against him as he gets outspent 4 to 1 by the Bush campaign. But half of Bush's money is expected to go toward grassroots GOTV operations, so that funding advantage could possibly be overcome by a volunteer army. Possibly.

The best thing Edwards could probably do right now is reach out to Dean, get his support, and adopt some of his policies such as universal health coverage.

In general, the Democrats' chances are good: Anti-Bush sentiment among Democrats and the involvement of organizations such as the Democratic Party, MoveOn.org, ACT, and the left-leaning blogosphere (they helped the Dems win in Kentucky's 6th Congressional District) will get out the vote in unprecedented numbers. On the other side, Bush's record on spending offends fiscal conservatives and his unwillingness to out and out ban abortion and gays offends Christian conservatives (though doing so would alienate suburban votes). These Bush people won't vote for the Democrats, but they might stay home.

Lastly, the Democratic Party and its opposition to Bush has benefited from the intense media coverage of the Democratic race. Witness Kerry and Edwards' rising numbers and Bush's dropping numbers. Keeping Edwards in the race will be better for both candidates.