Monday, July 30, 2007

Fred's Guide: How to Stall Before You Start



Today's Politico article offers the same information we've been hearing for days. However, the quotes make it worthy of re-posting:

Some are already saying a prospective Thompson run is a flop. “I just don’t see it anymore,” said a key Republican who had been extremely enthusiastic about a Thompson candidacy.

"That number [the $3M Fred raised in June] is really underwhelming. There were indications it could be double that. They've been saying that people were waiting for Fred, and the money was going to pour in. He looks like he's already losing momentum."


Fred's defense: This only represents 26 days of fundraising. Also, “He’s raising enough to test the waters, not run a full-fledged presidential campaign. He’s not a candidate.”

Reality: Cash indicates support. It shows the power of your position and predicts your ability to change minds in the future (ads cost $$$). Mitt beat Fred's $3M about 2-3 hours into his campaign (first fundraiser telethon brought in $6.5M).

I can't fault Fred for the weak defense. A statement must be made for damage control purposes when his numbers are released. Since lacking support is the only reasonable explanation, an unreasonable excuse was necessary.

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