Advantage . . . Norm

The latest Rassmussen poll shows just what a large advantage Norm Coleman would have if he chooses to run for Governor. He garners 50% support - a full 39 points ahead of the nearest republican competitor. Seems like this should be a no-brainer for him. He is the only candidate on both sides that has name recognition (other than Dayton . . but it's hard to see Dayton winning the governors spot), he would be able to energize his base by capitalizing on the frustration and sense of loss experienced by his supporters in the Senate recount, and I can see a lot of nice Minnesotans saying, "oh, that last election was so hard on the poor guy . . . let's give him this one . . . pass me some hot dish deary. (can you say 8%?)

Obviously, if he runs, these numbers will get a lot closer as Minnesota settles into its 45/45/10ish split - but he has to be considered the early prohibitive favorite right now, especially with recent elections showing independents breaking back toward the Republican party. The DFL will have to emerge from the primary with a strong and well-liked candidate to have any chance of winning back the governor's office.

Right now, Norm is still pondering a run . . .or strategizing. I'm not sure what he gains by waiting till next year to "decide" as he has indicated. Seems like that leaves the risk that another Republican can gain traction in the interim - whereas if he gets in early, most of the field would probably clear out. Or, maybe Norm is really enjoying the fruits of life in the private sector and really has not made a decision. Time will tell.