Way back before any of the Democratic candidates had declared their candidacy, I was excited by both Lieberman and Kerry as possible presidential candidates: Lieberman impressed me during the 2000 election and Kerry seems more than ready, and qualified, to make a bid for the White House. I knew about Dean but I had yet to delve in and research any of the candidates thoroughly, so I suppose I was simply going with the most recognizable names. When Dean started picking up momentum and got more face-time with the media, I started paying attention. I liked him, and much of what he had to say. His penchant for irritability and even, at times, anger did not (and still does not) bother me much. I'd much prefer a person who bristles from time to time than one constantly sporting a smug, chicken-lipped grin. Still, it was too soon to jump on anyone's bandwagon. I wanted to get a good look at all the candidates before pledging my allegiance.
As Dean pulled further into the lead it was easier for me to at least place my preferences in a kind of order. Lieberman's and Kerry's attacks (and let's make no mistake, that's what they are) on Dean really turned me off. Perhaps I am naïve/cynical, but I expect that kind of thing from the opposition party but not from same party members. And even if I should expect it, I don't like or appreciate it. In any case, these jabs -- especially Lieberman's quip about if Dean had his way Saddam would still be in power blah blah blah -- are clearly acts of growing desperation. I am disappointed in both of these men, who otherwise seem honorable and worthy, and so they each have slid far down my list of candidates that I am considering supporting. For what it is worth, here is my current list in order of preference. Note: I have not selected a number 1 yet, since I am still not 100% on any candidate.
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- Dean (if I had to vote today it would be him, for better or worse)
- Gephart or Clark (Gephart is less of an attack dog and I have confidence in him; Clark may not be ready to be president but I admire the man, and I think he'd make a great VP or Sec. of Defense, though he seems disinclined to take on either role in a new administration)
- Moseley Braun (this woman is exceptional: intelligent, well spoken, knowledgeable, and optimistic; unfortunately, she won't win the nomination, but she should be considered for a position in a new administration)
- Edwards (he's a nice enough guy but my guess is he's showcasing himself for a future run at the White House. He's not yet ready, unless he's interested in being VP, which he has indicated that he is not)
- Sharpton (got to love the way this man speaks his mind, and he is the funniest of all the candidates so far. A sense of humor rates high with this voter. Surely, I am not the only person who would love to see a debate between this man and Bush)
- Kerry and Lieberman (I haven't completely written either of them off, since you never know what might happen. But I have about one nerve left and they are both on it)
- Kucinich (I like this little guy, I really do. He impressed me more than that other little guy with the big ears and the color charts ever did. But I can't help thinking he's milking the shared spotlight to solidify an alternate political ((or other; read: Hollywood)) career)
NOTE: I have yet to look into third party candidates but look forward to doing so.
That is all.