I have listened to the pundits all night say stupid things trying to explain Kerry and Edward's performance tonight. For example, Schnieder on CNN just said 67% of the caucus voters were opposed to the war but Kerry and Edwards prevailed because voters care more about health care and jobs. Bu)) $**T
There is exactly one issue in this primary election: who is the candidate who is best able to beat Bush. Kerry did well because he is a Vet, an experienced Senator, moderate on taxes. Edwards did well because he is a telegenic fellow with a southern accent and a salable populist message.
I listened to those voters at the Iowa caucuses and almost all were on the same page. Beat Bush. Heck I even heard some older guy who I think was a Kucinich supporter explaining he was switching to Edwards because he thought Edwards had a shot in the South.
The candidate that can convince people he is the most electable is the one that is going to be the nominee. I think that it will boil down to either Clark or Edwards because I think voters are going to realize that Kerry just will not sell in key swing states. Between Clark and Edwards I don't know who is going to win. Clark has the advantage of gravitas and resume, Edwards has the advantage of personality and political experience (albeit minimal).
Message to candidates: It's about beating Bush Stupid!!!