JUSIPER

 
Is Dean Electable? Ruy Teixeira says no, and TAPPED gives in

Posted by Patrick

Until recently, the American Prospect's blog, TAPPED, saw hope in Howard Dean. Then, hearing Ruy Teixeira's negative answer to the question, "Is Dean electable?" they appeared to give in awfully easily. Teixeira claims that Dean's supporters think Dean's aggressive style is what makes him electable against Bush. I haven't seen that argument made anywhere - not by itself, anyway. Sure, the passion is what gets the liberals and professionals. But what most Dean supporters think makes Dean a potentially powerful coalition builder is his RECORD, not his anger: one of pragmatic, centrist policies. To many independent voters, who find extremism of any kind distasteful, this may prove quite attractive. Though hardly a secret, Dean's record could prove to be his secret weapon. In fact, a couple of polls show Dean doing better than Kerry among independents in New Hampshire.

That said, Teixeira's right about a potential weakness among culturally conservative working class voters in swing states. I just wonder if these voters will flock to Kerry any more than to Dean: after all, Kerry and Dean share the same stance on gay rights (both support civil unions, but not gay marriage), on the death penalty (some support) and Kerry has a record that is more anti-war than Dean.

Compared to Kerry and his Gore-esque advisors, Dean is a risk-taker with an innovative, canny staff. Against Bush and Rove and their big money, that will prove an advantage.

That said, I have to agree with TAPPED's point about a Southern Democrat being the party's best chance - assuming such a person meets other conditions as well. Imagine Wesley Clark at the top of a ticket with Dean as running mate, aided by the latter's staff, energy and organization. Wow.

8:49 PM |