>>On the other hand, if after going all out to make this election about him, and the candidates he has chosen and backed, he does not succeed, the political damage he will suffer-- both real and perceived -- will be significant
Significant, but short lived. I don't see anyone arguing that Bush's participation will hurt the Republican campaign efforts. If it doesn't result in a Republican Senate, they are no worse off than they are now, and the egg will be washed off his face rather quickly. However, a Republican victory will be long lasting, and will vindicate his efforts.
Interesting that in this instance, the Republican candidates welcome his participation, unlike his predecessor. In 2000, Clinton all but begged to go out on the campaign trail, but everyone told him to stay the hell away. If they could have, they would've even denied him permission to fly in their airspace. |
