They're saying that Edwards' showing in Iowa, according to the latest Time poll, shows the success of "retail polling," and note that he didn't miss a county on his hand-shaking tour. I've been on-again-off-again about John Edwards, so when I heard the news I asked myself, "What is it that grabs me about John Edwards?"
What grabbed me first was his anger at John Kerry for not protesting the 2004 vote in Ohio. We were all angry. Some of us have a lingering anger at the Democratic party for its weakness. John Edwards was the one person in a top leadership and in the spotlight who spoke up.
* Likeability: Edwards (32%) and Obama (30%) lead as "most likeable." Clinton finishes last, at 12%, just below Bill Richardson (16%).
* Strongest Leadership: Clinton holds a commanding lead over Edwards and Obama, 36% - 23% - 20%. Richardson (9%) trails badly on leadership.
* Handling of Iraq: Clinton (27%) leads Obama (19%), Edwards (18%) and Richardson (16%).
* Protecting Against Terrorism: Clinton leads the field by a wide margin, picked by 27%, compared to Edwards, at 19%, Obama at 15%, and Richardson at 14%.
So an an overall 5 points ahead of Hillary Clinton? Hurrah! Clinton postures like a leader but she caves on important issues. I'm tired of Bush-like calculation and wrongheadedness. Bush-like incompetence? Don't know.
