2004 Democrats and 2008 Republicans Posted by Ilan Goldenberg

Drawing clear historical analogies is always a little dangerous.  You can create perceived connections where none actually exist.  So with the disclaimer that this post is a bit silly, I can’t help thinking that the 2008 Republican primary field looks a lot like the 2004 Democratic field.  The dynamic of the races is similar in that primary voters aren’t excited about any of the candidates, but are most mobilized by the fear of four years of George Bush (2004) / Hillary Clinton (2008).  The candidates are also pretty similar:

A leader in the polls who stumbles early because he is completely out of touch with his party on key issues.  Lieberman Iraq 2004.  McCain immigration/Iraq 2008.

The great hope who comes late into the race to save the day, but turns out to be a pretty lousy campaigner.  Clark 2004.  Thompson 2008.

The affable Southerner, who barley registers nationally, but uses a strong showing in Iowa to pick up momentum and catapult himself into the Vice President’s spot on the ticket.  Edwards 2004.  Huckabee 2008.

The fall front runner. He continues to defy pundits’ expectations by maintaining a sizable lead, despite his obvious shortcomings.  Ultimately, he’s just too eccentric to be the nominee.  Dean 2004.  Giuliani 2008.

He feels like the most Presidential.  Has a bit of a flip flopping problem.  But he’s the most electable.  Oh, and he comes from Massachusetts…

Anyway, come back in three months when I’m sure all of this will be proven completely wrong.

Comments

[Mike M.]

Frankly, your analysis of this race was... really freaking clever and witty.

Right on. More, please. It was fun.

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