There is a great article in Advertising Age, analyzing the impact of Michael Bloomberg on the Presidential race.  No doubt, his role will be substantial.  But, with Fred Thompson in this race, I believe that his role will more or less be “spoiler” for the Democrats than President.

From the get-go, let’s get this out of the way.  If he drops a billion into this race, he is a legitimate contender.  But, one thing Bloomberg lacks is a grassroots party structure that the major parties have.  It becomes difficult to build such grassroots support when he is not committed to any particular ideology.  You may be saying… well, what about Perot?

Yes, in 1992, Perot ended up with 18% of the popular vote.  However, his inability to build a strong grassroots network that reached into small towns throughout America (along with his overall insanity) was his undoing.

I do, however, believe that Bloomberg is a much stronger candidate than Perot.  And, if he blows a billion, he WILL win some states.  But, I truly believe that his candidacy will hurt Democrats more than Republicans… why?… you may ask.

Right now, Americans are (to put it mildly) disenchanted with the President.  And, no doubt, his absurdly low popularity will hurt Fred or any other Republican.  So, normally, people who wanted to vote the bums out would go to the Democrats.

But, let’s look at the other side… Hillary Clinton?  Does anyone really want to vote for her?  Barack?  Nice guy… no experience… too young…. and, that is about it for serious candidates (And, no, Edwards is not one.).  So, that leaves Bloomberg for Americans who are disenchanted with Bush.  And, of course, Fred will rally the Republican faithful.

Bloomberg in the race = a win for Fred and Republicans…. don’t you love how I am already giving this race to Fred and assuming he is the nominee?  Let’s be honest… who can hang with him in this race?

Share This