Is Huckabee Democrats' Biggest Nightmare?

Mike Huckabee's rapid rise in the Republican presidential race is prompting concern among some Democratic strategists who believe that the former Arkansas governor could become a daunting general election foe should he secure the GOP nomination.

Is it Huckabee, not Giuliani, who'd be the toughest candidate for Democrats to beat next year? (AP Photo)

These operatives believe that Huckabee's profile -- former Baptist minister, southern governor, fitness preacher -- and self-effacing style on the stump could prove an appealing combination for moderate and independent voters.

"Mike Huckabee is the Republican that probably worries me the most," said Wooten Johnson, a Democratic strategist based in Louisiana. "Unlike the other Republicans, he isn't flawed in the eyes of the Republican base. But more importantly, he has a record of being a true compassionate conservative. He will be able to attract those suburban voters that don't want to vote for [a] Democrat."

John Anzalone, a Democratic pollster based in Alabama, offered a similar sentiment about Huckabee: "He is the type of person who plays well in both a People Magazine profile, on Leno and in debates," said Anzalone. "Real people seem to see a bit of themselves in Huck, and I think he will be difficult to demonize."

Anzalone added that while he was not "terrified" of a Huckabee candidacy, he could "see [the former governor] hitting a chord with the public beyond primary voters."

For months, Democrats have been game-planning for what a general election would look like against one of four possible candidates: Rudy Giuliani, Mitt Romney, John McCain and Fred Thompson. But Huckabee's recent surge in (and nationally) has forced Democrats to consider the prospect of facing off against him next November.

There is little empirical evidence to help guide their way. The lone poll that matched Huckabee against any of the leading Democratic candidates in a hypothetical general election match-up was conducted by NBC/Wall Street Journal in early September. It showed Hillary Rodham Clinton leading Huckabee 50 percent to 36 percent. (So sparse is polling matching Huckabee against the Democratic field that Real Clear Politics doesn't even include him in its list of potential general election match-ups.)

With so little to guide the way, the best way to figure out what sort of general election candidate Huckabee might be is to look back at the races he has run in Arkansas.

Huckabee's first foray into elective office was an unsuccessful one. In 1992, he took on Sen. Dale Bumpers (D) and, even then, his penchant for one-liners was apparent. "We need to give the people of Arkansas a senator who does more than talk cornbread and catfish in Arkansas but votes Kennedy and Cranston in Washington," Huckabee said on the stump that year. Huckabee was outspent at by a two-to-one margin and lost the race 60 percent to 40 percent -- in the same year fellow Arkansan Bill Clinton was winning the White House at the top of the ticket.

Huckabee was back less than a year later when he ran in a special election to fill the vacant lieutenant governor's job. (Jim Guy Tucker, a Democrat, had ascended to the governorship following Clinton's presidential victory.) Huckabee's opponent was Little Rock attorney Nate Coulter (D), who had managed Bumpers's successful campaign the previous year. Huckabee won with 51 percent, becoming the first Republican to win a statewide post in Arkansas since 1980.

Elected to the largely ceremonial post -- the only official role for the lieutenant governor is to open Senate sessions and stand in for the governor when he is out of the state -- Huckabee quickly used the office to raise his profile in the state. As a result, he cruised to a win over state Sen. Charlie Cole Chaffin (D) to claim a full, four-year term in November 1994 -- piling up the largest percentage of the vote (59 percent) of any Arkansas Republican running for statewide office in a century.

The retirement announcement by Sen. David Pryor (D) in 1995 gave Huckabee another chance to move up the political food chain. He announced for the 1996 open-seat race, but fate intervened in the form of Jim Guy Tucker's criminal conviction and subsequent resignation in July 1996. Huckabee, at age 40, was suddenly the governor.

In 1998, Gov. Huckabee faced attorney Bill Bristow, whose client list included Danny Ferguson, the Arkansas state trooper who was a co-defendant with Bill Clinton in Paula Jones's sexual harassment case. Bristow sought to paint Huckabee as an extremist, arguing that the incumbent favored women being paid less than men for equal work and believed women should be subservient to their husbands. It didn't work, as Huckabee won the governorship in his own right with 60 percent of the vote.

Four years later, Huckabee seemed on cruise control to reelection, as a series of big-name Democrats took a pass, including Mike Beebe, the state's current governor. The eventual Democratic choice was state Treasurer Jimmie Lou Fisher, who was a surprisingly strong candidate. Huckabee didn't help his own cause; his support for the release of convicted rapist Wayne DuMond -- who raped and murdered a woman a month after being paroled in 1999 -- became a major issue and gave Fisher an angle to question the incumbent's judgment. She also battered Huckabee for accepting gifts from political supporters. He escaped -- barely, taking 53 percent of the vote to Fisher's 47 percent.

What lessons can Democrats learn from Huckabee's past political career? First and foremost, painting him as an extremist just doesn't work. While Huckabee is likely more conservative than the average voter, he doesn't come across as a fire-breathing conservative, and Democrats seeking to paint him as such have come up short before.

"What he says is deeply reactionary, but his affability may take the edge off the harshness of his world-view," said Matt Bennett, a former Clinton administration official now affiliated with Third Way.

If history is a guide, the best way to attack Huckabee is on his record. Obviously, the DuMond case is generating considerable talk at the moment and could well slow Huckabee's rise. His record on taxes and spending -- prime fodder for his Republican rivals -- might actually play somewhat well in a general election, however, as polls show the American public swinging back to the view that government can play a constructive role in their daily lives.

The biggest argument against Huckabee could well be that his decade of service in Arkansas ill-prepares him to deal with a post-Sept. 11 world -- a fascinating twist given that John Kerry's loss in 2004 was largely blamed on voters' doubts about his ability to keep them safe.

"Former governors of Arkansas may have made fine general election candidates pre-9/11, but it's hard to see how Huckabee makes us feel safe and protected," said Democratic media consultant Jennifer Burton.

So, there are clearly lines of attack available to Democrats if Huckabee becomes the nominee. But the current trepidation about that prospect speaks to just how much of an unknown variable Huckabee represents in the presidential race.

Huckabee is not easily caricatured -- either as a rabid conservative or a partisan warrior. During the Republican primary so far he has proven himself an adept debater, effective speaker and, perhaps most importantly, someone who has been able to run a strong campaign with very little money or organization.

Should Huckabee wind up as the GOP nominee, the traditional Democratic playbook might well have to be rewritten to cope with his unorthodox approach. That doesn't mean it can't be done, but rather that he poses a unique challenge to Democratic strategists.

By Chris Cillizza | December 6, 2007; 5:30 AM ET | Category: Eye on 2008
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Comments

graysce101 -- How about posting your real name after this garbage? I double dare you to actually take ownership for your vile lies.

Posted by: _Colin | December 7, 2007 3:19 PM | Report abuse

Why OBAMA can not be trusted?

--Muslim blood. His father was a Muslim. Muslim's sons are Muslims for life.
--tried to change his identity. If you were born as a Muslim, you will always be a Muslim. No matter what you say or do.
--refused to say the Pledge of Allegiance. He did not want to offend ISLAM so he refused
--claims he's running on his record
-- had 17 years' old unpaid parking tickets
--made personal "questionable" investments
--insisted that his health care provides care to everyone, does he know what universal means?
--a fabulous orator, but we need more than words....
--he says one thing and does another
--claimed that as a young boy who lived in overseas for 10 years made him an expert of foreign affairs.
--will meet with enemies without preconditions
--recruited out of state non-Iowan residents to vote for him on Jan 3.
--he said that he was not taking money from the Lobbyists. Yeah right?
--playing old politics as usual, after he promised hope and change....
--AWOL for an IRAN vote in the Senate, then criticized his opponent.
--inexperience with little accomplishments, we need a doer not a talker

Pls don't be fooled by this PHONY ROOKIE. If he is the nominee, the Republican will eat him alive. The Democrat will lose again...

Posted by: graysce101 | December 7, 2007 12:49 PM | Report abuse

Presidential Candidate Ron Paul Bears Empty Pot For Americans
December 6, 2007
Carl Fiser

(Smithtown, N.Y.) Many contend that Ron Paul, although an honest, plain-talking man, comes to the 2008 presidential campaign podium without a lot of achievement. While in office, he hasn't steer-headed proposed legislation into law, or galvanized broad-based support for this national agenda or that, or even been on board with most post-911 bills and actions. For almost twenty years, he's been a dedicated representative for his Texas District and has not a potpourri of achievements about which to boast on the presidential campaign trail. Is this exactly true? How could someone serve for so long, and have so little to show for it?

At this time, I should share a story I heard from two entertainers at my son's grade school. The entertainers were turning books from different parts of the world into short, little plays, in order to spark the children's interest in reading. The following story took place centuries ago in the Far East.

The wise, old emperor was keenly aware that he was getting along in years, and he worried about finding a suitable replacement to lead the people. One day, he solicited the young people of his kingdom to gather, and he shocked them by telling them that he would be stepping down and that he would choose one of them to be his successor. "I am going to give each one of you a seed today, a very special seed. I want you to plant the seed, water it and come back here one year from today with what you have grown from the seed. I will then judge the plants that you bring, and the one I choose will be the next emperor!"

One young man named Ling, a son of a farmer, was there that day, and he was certain that he could cultivate that seed better than anyone else. He got a pot, filled it with rich soil and watered it carefully. Day after day, he checked the pot. Weeks passed by, then months, and still nothing had grown. Other youths from the kingdom began to talk about their plants and flowers and trees, but Ling said nothing. He was sure that he somehow had killed the seed.

After a year had passed, all the youths of the kingdom brought their plants to the emperor for inspection. Ling's first inclination was not to attend, but he showed up that day, sick to his stomach. He was amazed at the plants that the others had brought. They were of all different varieties and all so beautiful. Some of the others made fun of Ling's empty pot and others felt pity for him. Ling stood toward the back of the crowd.

The emperor looked over the vast array and seemed pleased. Then, he spotted Ling standing at the back of the room with his empty pot, and he ordered his guards to bring the young man to the front. Ling was led grudgingly, fearful that he may be punished for his utter failure. The emperor asked his name. "My name is Ling," he replied. Now, all the youths were laughing and making fun. The emperor then announced to the crowd, "Behold your new emperor! His name is Ling!"
The emperor continued,

One year ago today, I gave everyone here a seed. I told you to take the seed, plant it, water it and bring it back to me today. But I gave you all boiled seeds which would not grow. The rest of you substituted your own seeds for the one I gave you, but Ling was the only one with the courage and honesty to bring me a pot with my seed in it. Therefore, he is the one who will be your new emperor!

Ron Paul, like Ling, is a great truth-teller. His voting record is one of the most consistent
this writer has ever seen. No flip-flops are to be found. As well, he is a courageous and wise man, and a heck of an economist. Just ask the Wall Streeters. However, he bears to his fellow countrymen (and countrywomen), an empty pot. He can't claim to have brought you wars or higher taxes, which we now have. He never brought you an unbalanced budget, which is a perennial joke. He never voted himself a wage increase and, to this day, gives back part of his salary every year. He has always voted to preserve the Constitution, cut government spending, lower healthcare costs, end the war on drugs, secure our borders with immigration reform and protect our civil liberties. Sorrowfully, he was outvoted or shot down on all measures. The Constitution has been chiseled down, government spending is through the roof, healthcare costs are out of control, the war on drugs keeps getting less effective, immigration issues remain unresolved and our civil liberties have been crimped for our own safety. I'll just throw in that Ron Paul opposes regulation of the internet, which has been a revolution in the exchange of ideas, this article being a case in point.

The eye-popping reality of the situation is this. No longer can it be said that Ron Paul is running for President. Amazingly enough, his candidacy has been hijacked, and it appears now that the people are running for President. . . through Ron Paul! That's the true revolution about which your neighbors are speaking.

So, do you want the plants and flowers that your other government representatives have cultivated for you year after year, or do you want an open and honest effort at change, not for the powerful interests, but for you and for members of your family yet to arrive. If you want to see an unprecedented effort at change - starting with the only man on the campaign trail who is not afraid to tell you the truth - your action must start now. Get informed. Get angry. Get talking to your neighbors. Then, get to the voting booths!

Please join us this December 16th 2007 for the largest one-day political donation event in history. Our goal is to bring together 100,000 people to donate $100 each, creating a one day donation total of $10,000,000.

http://www.teaparty07.com/

*** Defend the Constitution ***
http://www.RonPaul2008.com

Posted by: US-Citizen | December 7, 2007 10:47 AM | Report abuse

Presidential Candidate Ron Paul Bears Empty Pot For Americans
December 6, 2007
Carl Fiser

http://www.teaparty07.com/

*** Defend the Constitution ***
http://www.RonPaul2008.com

Posted by: US-Citizen | December 7, 2007 10:46 AM | Report abuse

PutDownTheKoolAid - "But the most ludicrous of all these comments is from the nutjob who wrote that Republicans own up to their crimes and sins. Talk about delusional!"

Hey PutDownTheKoolAid, how bout PuttingUpAnArguement instead of the "Liar Liar Pants on Fire" approach.

Posted by: dave | December 7, 2007 9:12 AM | Report abuse

Mr. Huckabee is leading in the Rasmussen Daily Presidential Tracking among Republican candidates Nationally, and in the states of Iowa, South Carolina and in Arkansas. Additionally Mike Huckabee is shown by Rasmussen to be the only Republican candidate defeating Hillary Clinton in Arkansas and this by a good margin.

Posted by: mwp62 | December 7, 2007 2:16 AM | Report abuse

"To most of us Christians (I'm Catholic), Mormon is a cult. There is no other book in the world that can replace the Bible. That is the bottom line and Mitt has to realize that."

Freedom of religion in America is a beautiful thing. One we should always remember - one we should always embrace.

Not only does Romney have the freedom to be Mormon, he has the freedom to be a Mormon running for office, without passing a Bible test.

I probably won't vote for him in the primary, but as a fellow Catholic, I might pray for him to be led to the Church, but I won't *not* vote for him because of his religion, as long as he demonstrates the values necessary to lead this country.

I think everyone, even the D's on the fix, can agree that Mitt Romney is (or at least seems to be) a good, smart, hard-working man, with a strong family, who loves America, and believes in liberty and equality.

Christianity does not have a monopoly on liberty.

It just happens that we're the ones defending her in her current struggle against freedom-haters.

But don't call Mormanism a cult man. Even if you think is, don't punish a perfectly viable candidate.

Posted by: USMC_Mike | December 7, 2007 12:21 AM | Report abuse

*************************************************************************************************

Chris right that the Huckster is the biggest threat to the Dems. The dismal performance Mitt gave at the recent debate will haunt him for years. He was not only well prepared for the debate, but he bit the immigration bait that knocked off his radar and never recovered. He had a hard time, just like Giuliani did, answering the Bible question, giving Huckabee a boost on his flawless performance.

Clearly without the money, Mitt wouldn't be where he is on the polls. I'm not blaming the guy for being rich, oh no, one has to be smart to be rich; however, the exposure his money has bought him is not enough to convince the GOP electorate that he is the right man. His Mormon faith is his biggest downfall, bar none. While some people might understand his claims of not knowing who worked his yard, he was born and bred a Mormon and he is damn proud of it. To most of us Christians (I'm Catholic), Mormon is a cult. There is no other book in the world that can replace the Bible. That is the bottom line and Mitt has to realize that.

Where as the US President represents all Americans, regardless of religious affiliation, one has to understand that this is the GOP and God comes first.

Giuliani is done, and yet he doesn't know that. His stance on the abortion issue (won't sign bill to criminalize abortion) and gay rights (approves civil unions) is contrary to the core values of the GOP.
Perhaps the dems or independents will vote for him!!

McCain has not quite recovered from his earlier support for the troop surge, nor did his support for amnesty help his cause. Nevertheless, he would make an excellent running mate for Huckabee.

Old Freddy is not sure whether he is in the mix or not, however, he wasted the most important tool he had over the other candidates; name recognition. He too can make an excellent running mate for Huckabee; however, he will have wake up and come to life.

Ron Paul will run as an independent thus squashing any possibility of a Gore Bloomberg ticket. If history is right, he will be another Ross Perot, because this nation only elects from too parties.

Huckabee emerges as the clear cut winner with all the evangelicals and die hard Republicans rallying behind him. His experience both as a Pastor and Governor, not to mention a stint as a DJ, have elevated his campaign from a tier 3 candidate to the front runner. His firm conservative views resonate very well with potential voters who actually vote. He has risen above the fray and while being on top paints a big bull's-eye on all sides is taking criticism very well and trudging on to victory lane.

A misinformed attack by a leftwing liberal blog trying to pass itself as a genuine mainstream news media citing his record as Governor, and trying to tie him to Dumond, a convicted rapist who was paroled only to rape again and murder his victim, was easily and honestly rebuked for what it was. In today's morning shows, Huckabee addressed the subject without giving credibility to the blog by mentioning its name, saying that he was invited by the parole board to discuss the Dumond issue and that he never pressed them to release him. He went on to say that Dumond's sentence had been reduced at the intervention of the then President Clinton and Governor Jim, paving the way for his parole. The said aide who was quoted by the blog was to release a statement to back Huckabee's remarks, that he was not actively involved in the parole.

With all said and done. Huckabee will make an excellent President and perhaps unite the country that is on the verge of splitting on party affiliation.

See how he fairs against a potential billary matchup:

http://www.capitalpoliticking.com
.

Posted by: BROKESPENDER2 | December 6, 2007 11:05 PM | Report abuse

*************************************************************************************************

Where as the US President represents all Americans, regardless of religious affiliation, one has to understand that this is the GOP and God comes first.

McCain has not quite recovered from his earlier support for the troop surge, nor did his support for amnesty help his cause. Nevertheless, he would make an excellent running mate for Huckabee.

Ron Paul will run as an independent thus squashing any possibility of a Gore Bloomberg ticket. If history is right, he will be another Ross Perot, because this nation only elects from too parties.

With all said and done. Huckabee will make an excellent President and perhaps unite the country that is on the verge of splitting on party affiliation.

See how he fairs against a potential billary matchup:

http://www.capitalpoliticking.com
.

Posted by: BROKESPENDER2 | December 6, 2007 11:04 PM | Report abuse

Huck is definetly capable of speaking the language of the people. It will be Huck and Obama in the finals, two guys who don't seem strident, angry, or vindictive and who stick to their positions, popular or not.

Posted by: TrueHawk | December 6, 2007 10:26 PM | Report abuse

Chris-

I think your nuts on this one.

The dems know that Independents will swing the vote. What really should worry them is HRC - she is too divisive to gain independents. They should also worry about Romney, Rudy, and McCain - all three appeal to Independents. The far right and far left will vote their party regardless.

Posted by: weinbob | December 6, 2007 6:28 PM | Report abuse

Oh so scary, especially when we get to the part about how clueless he is on current events. What sells with bible thumpers in the primaries will bury him in the general election. How about the crooked mayor or flip flopping governor instead ? Bring it on.

Posted by: barnardj1 | December 6, 2007 6:15 PM | Report abuse

Huckabee is as slick as slick Willie ever was. I'll give him a nod for the "Elmer Gantry" award but not my vote.

Posted by: rcasey99 | December 6, 2007 5:16 PM | Report abuse

Elections are called races for a reason. If Huckabee is the Dem nominee the strategy should NOT be to find a way to attack him. The strategy should be to out run him and make him look weak by comparison. The Dem nominee should create the vision and back it up with policy proposals and plans to make it clear who is best suited to lead our country at this point in time. If the nominee is not Hillary, there is also the potential narrative that we don't need another governor from Arkansas -- I'd love to watch the Republicans counter that without looking like they are defending Clinton.

Posted by: matt_ahrens | December 6, 2007 5:13 PM | Report abuse

Posted by: matt_ahrens | December 6, 2007 5:12 PM | Report abuse

memphis1: I still cannot find much "Factual" information about this case. I am relying mostly on memory, I haven't even thought of it for years, and memories fade. Does anyone actually know the answers to my questions?

Posted by: lylepink | December 6, 2007 5:09 PM | Report abuse

To answer the headline:

yes.

Huckabee can bring people together like no one else can - and this country needs that now more than ever....

Posted by: lgander | December 6, 2007 5:01 PM | Report abuse

murray waas???? about 5 people here care who this guy is and the rest have never heard of him.

Posted by: Anti-wimp | December 6, 2007 5:00 PM | Report abuse

Claudia--Since you asked..I think the comment you pointed out was indeed offensive, and CC should enforce the posting standards when something this inappropriate is written by someone who is clearly fixated on you. Back to the topic .. until the recent Rudy scandal stuff came to light, I've long thought that Rudy/Huck might be a possibility. They complement and complete each other in the sort of authoritarian, theocratic way that might appeal to the GOP base. But then I tell myself this couldn't really happen, could it?

Posted by: rdklingus | December 6, 2007 4:41 PM | Report abuse

memphis1 - who is the long time respected journalist in AR you speak of?

Posted by: Anti-wimp | December 6, 2007 4:34 PM | Report abuse

okay, families: Huck made a bad mistake and learned from it. I'm sorry. As is he. It is/was terrible. Now let's grow as best we can from here and I'm happy to help.

it was the st francis county sheriff? awesome. glad you got that straight because it changes my whole point and the fact that the balls were hanging out on the desk. thanks. (are you sitting next to your liberal washing machine on your porch?)

Posted by: Anti-wimp | December 6, 2007 4:27 PM | Report abuse

note to two people: Huck doesn't drink beer. And John McCain whispers when he talks and is not presidential. WAY too much time in D.C. Not a chance.

Posted by: Anti-wimp | December 6, 2007 4:24 PM | Report abuse

yeah, right. it was the St. Francis County Sheriff who displayed Dumond's testicles in a jar on his desk, not the police chief. if you were as knowledgeable about all this as you claim, you would have known that.

huckabee made a "bad mistake" and "learned from it?" Tell that to the families of the two women Dumond killed.

Posted by: memphis1 | December 6, 2007 4:21 PM | Report abuse

folks...i'm a conservative capitalist pig. huck raised only a few taxes here and if you lived in this poor, highly uneducated state run by lazy liberals who promote more of the poor uneducated ways, you'd have to do some moderate things simply to get anything done. why do you think he was re-elected and also with so much of the black vote? because he got some real results. he's signed the no tax pledge and doesn't have to deal with a 90% democratic congress. figure it out. the illegal thing is/was fine. don't pusish the kids. simple as pie. quit taking things out of context.

Posted by: Anti-wimp | December 6, 2007 4:21 PM | Report abuse

lylepink: the castration was ordered by clinton's hitmen. my sister went to school with the victim. sad deal for sure. she was a distant cousin of mob boss clinton (he's governed my life most of it thank god he's gone) and he ordered the hit as many here know. the police chief in the town had a glass jar on his desk which contained the testicles of dumond. huck made a bad mistake. he learned from it. and it shouldn't define his readiness to bring optimistic, rational, leadership to the country. ask me anything folks..i live here and know all the players, dems or repubs. but watch out if you come, clinton's hitmen are still lurking...

Posted by: Anti-wimp | December 6, 2007 4:17 PM | Report abuse

So Governor Huckabee is a compassionate conservative, eh? Try telling that to the women raped by Mr. Dumond. And to the millions of women a compassionate conservative needs to be elected.

Posted by: rrickards10 | December 6, 2007 4:06 PM | Report abuse

Chris the Fix is in love with Huckabee. But Hukabee doesn't have the organization or the resources to win the presidency let alone go up against the Clintons. I agree he is a nice guy and plays the guitar. He also has a habit of raising taxes and giving encouragement to illegal immigrants.

Posted by: bryantford | December 6, 2007 4:05 PM | Report abuse

My guess is that you would be drinking lemonade.

The Huckster is just the latest media crush and will be undone by his past just as Thug Guliani is being undone.

The Dumond issue is not so much that Huck was involved in letting this low life out of jail and went on to destroy other lives it is why the Govenor intervened. He intervened becasue he suffers from Clinton Derangement Syndrom. Chris failed to bring up that a major factor in all this is that Huck did not beleive the guy was guilty that DUmaond was railroaded. Why? Becasue he was charged and convicted with raping a 2nd cousin once removed of Bill Clinton's. Therefore Mr Dumond was castrated and sentenced to prison because Bill Clinton demanded it.

Oh then there is the whole evolution problem, anti-choice, regressive sales tax on all. He is dangerous because he is so "nice" and becasue the press will not hammer on his charcter problems. Only Democrats are flawed.

Bob O'Reilly

Posted by: rworeilly | December 6, 2007 4:02 PM | Report abuse

The Huff Post piece was written by a long-time Arkansas journalist who is well-respected in his home state.

Anyone who lived in this region at the time is well aware of the role animosity toward Clinton played in the "Free Dumond" movement.

At the time, it was common knowledge that Huckabee was pushing for Dumond's parole.

Posted by: memphis1 | December 6, 2007 3:59 PM | Report abuse

Speaking of nightmares, Chris, try this analogy on for size: W. Horton is to Michael D. as W. DuMond is to Michael H.. Got a certain rhythm to it, doesn't it? By the way, how did that Lee Atwater special ad about Willie Horton work out for Michael Dukakis?

Posted by: allen11 | December 6, 2007 3:46 PM | Report abuse

It is comical to read these comments and see how badly out of touch with reality Republicans have become. Little do they seem to understand the gloomy fate that awaits their wretched party of perverts, pedophiles, hypocrites, liars, and above all else, thieves. But the most ludicrous of all these comments is from the nutjob who wrote that Republicans own up to their crimes and sins. Talk about delusional!

Posted by: PutDownTheKoolaid | December 6, 2007 3:45 PM | Report abuse

wmcmichail: The castration of the Rapist, to my knowledge, was unclear as to who was supposed to have done it, when it was done, or if it was done at all. Anyway the Murder and Rape occurred shortly after he was released on parole, so the question I've always had was "How does a castrated man commit Rape?"

Posted by: lylepink | December 6, 2007 3:44 PM | Report abuse

Sure Huckabee is an affable guy, but he has no chance of becoming president.

Let's be serious people, President "Huckabee"?!

What would the ticket be, "Huckabee and Cornpone"?

The most embarassing presidential name to date was probably Hoover. A bit ominous, isn't it?

Posted by: dairving | December 6, 2007 3:43 PM | Report abuse

If the ignorant vote again because they would like to drink a beer with this guy we are in serious trouble.

Posted by: DIMMY | December 6, 2007 3:25 PM | Report abuse

He's just the candidate du jour. It's amazing how rightwingers want to always blame the Dems. for underhanded attacks. The story about the rapist could have come from any campaign. Afterall, it's Repuglicans that he's surging ahead of right now. It's a terrible story and he's lying about his role in it. An assistant of his said Huckabee was very involved. We don't need another lying Republican in such quick succession.

Posted by: shag11 | December 6, 2007 3:25 PM | Report abuse

Gov. Huckabee has many good qualities. He comes across as honest, sincere and direct and appears to be a good leader. However, in a general election, there is one candidate that stands out as the leader who can beat Hillary Clinton or any other Democrat nominee, hands down: John McCain. If you look at the polling match- up data, McCain has consistently led or tied Clinton again and again. He is a proven leader, with a track record of making principled decisions; he is a strong conservative who also appeals to independent voters and moderate democrats. He is strong on national security and also knows how to work accross the aisle.

I think Huckabee would make a fine Vice President, but John McCain is THE Republican who Democrats should be worried about.

Posted by: slkellogg_2000 | December 6, 2007 3:24 PM | Report abuse

Huckabee should be any right thinking person's nightmare--he would be a continuation of the current "compassionate conservatism" (What is that but big gov? True conservatism is by its nature compassionate--it means the government trusts you, government won't dictate to you). A Huckabee election would be the continuation of big government conservatism. Scary stuff if you care about things like liberty, your income, world security. In fact, Giuliani (NYC!!) and Romney (Socialized Healthcare in MA!!) are also from the same big gov wing of the Republican party. Shame on Reps for entertaining any of these guys....

Posted by: lovinliberty | December 6, 2007 3:20 PM | Report abuse

Amazing, how all of this GOP canidates want to be like Ronal Reagan, I have news for this clowns, Reagan is DEAD, and so are they, if they dont figure a way to get us the hell out of Iraq and stop spending the taxpayer money, on this stupid war. If, they want to spend this kind of money start by patrolling the Borders fix our interstate roads, healthcare for everybody..Stop killing our young man and women on wars that we created, like WMD DUH!

Posted by: llevario2 | December 6, 2007 3:18 PM | Report abuse

OH, LOL Cillizza!!!

Huck is not their Nightmare!

I AM!

See, I am out to get the Huckster to drop the Religion Wedge, and TEAM UP with the Mittster!

Let's see, the Senior Bushies seem to Like the Mittster, who also like Chuck Norris, who likes Huckleberry(Number "2"), who by Proxie now likes the Mittster!

Hee Hee! Problem solved!

Posted by: rat-the | December 6, 2007 3:15 PM | Report abuse

Go to Huffington Post

he he

go to "i am a complete wacko.com" to read about how bush eats babies for breakfast.

Posted by: kingofzouk | December 6, 2007 3:12 PM | Report abuse

The Democrats worst nightmare will be the uninformed voter, as the Republicans have done all the necessary work on dismantling themselves.

Posted by: once_read | December 6, 2007 3:07 PM | Report abuse

"Some of you are playiny a little loose with the facts on the Dumond case. Huckabee denied him communtation three times and simply signed off on the Paroled Board recommendation that he cannot change or supercede."

Sorry, you are wrong. Huckabee was much more involved in the release of Dumond. Go to Huffington Post to read the whole story including the letters written to Huckabee by two women who were also raped by Drumond, letters Huckabee ignored when he recommended to the parole board that this guy be released.

Posted by: katie11 | December 6, 2007 3:07 PM | Report abuse

sltiowa - you don't understand our deranged poster claudialong aka drindl. all she ever does is throw mud and insults. don't expect an ounce of rationality from her. she is the hyper-female version of rufas. when confronted with reality she retreats back into her shadow world.

Posted by: kingofzouk | December 6, 2007 3:01 PM | Report abuse

What do Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and Mike Huckabee, general election juggernaut, all have in common?

Posted by: LouisTheRogue | December 6, 2007 2:52 PM | Report abuse

I like Huckabee, and he certainly is getting my vote. He doesn't flip flop on things, he's a truely social conservative & he has new and bold ideas. He believes in public health and has fought for fitness and health to be part of children's lives. Working in insurance as I do, I'm certainly greatful for this change. I also welcome his support of the Fair Tax. I'm not certain as to what rates we would pay and how drug dealers would be caught, but I'm certainly interested in the details of this plan. His support & interest in education attracts me to him. His reverence to God and Christian walk make him very attractive. I believe with these attributes, and now a little publicity, he's on a heck of a racehorse that just may enter the Whitehouse.

Posted by: bryant_flier2006 | December 6, 2007 2:51 PM | Report abuse

I hope this is a joke because no Journalist would write this trash. Huckabee didn't even know about Iran not having NUKES as it was all over the news. Bush/Israel wanted to bomb Iran and we found out that only Israel had NUKES not Iran. We have had a President for 7 years who knows nothing and lies to your face do we really want another unqualified President who is clue less and let's other run the Country. Using God isn't going to work this time, Karl Rove did enough lying while using God's name.

Posted by: qqbDEyZW | December 6, 2007 2:48 PM | Report abuse

Claudialong,

You never addressed my questions concerning responsibility of D candidates votes. Also are you saying that DeMund was a horrible prisoner and the first meeting of the parole board someone actually voted for him being paroled? The Atlantic Review has written a piece with slightly different spin on the information than yours...is that a surprise. Yes, we know that you get your news straight from the tainted source. I hardly think MH newly elected governor in AK at the time will risk his new found power on releasing a convicted rapist simply because he raped Bill Clinton's distant cousin (talk about conspiracy theory). MH never said that DeMund never raped anyone and noted his change in his life that he thought genuine as his reason for the man's release. Who really is the revisionist.

Posted by: sltiowa | December 6, 2007 2:48 PM | Report abuse

Chris:
Let me be the 18,000th person to say this: Are you reading the news lately? My God, you're putting out a press release for Huckabee, not an analysis of his candidacy.

I'm sure this Dumond pardon controversy will affect his position in future polls;like Giuliani's crony scandal, Romney's illegal immigrant landscaper scandal, and Thompson's sonambulant scandal, Huckabee will take a dive in his support.

Do these guys act like the Dems in the 80's, fighting amongst themselves and throwing PR-fax mud at each other?

That's the story here.

Posted by: spenceradams | December 6, 2007 2:46 PM | Report abuse

The Democrats would LOVE to go up against Huckabee in a general election.

Although he would certainly shore up the social conservative element, he would fail to get support from moderate Republicans and Independents.

His stance on illegal immigration will keep him from being a serious contender down the stretch. NO ONE could possibly win the Republican nomination with a PRO-AMNESTY stance.

The fact that he doesn't believe in evolution will scare away all but the most ardently religious of Republican voters.

His poor taxing record will worry fiscal conservatives to the point of nausea.

His lack of foreign policy experience will render him helpless on the all-important issue of national security.

Surprised that the author of this article could be so in the dark about these issues.

Posted by: gthstonesman | December 6, 2007 2:39 PM | Report abuse

Chris, I usually like what you write but man, you are WAY off on this one and on the analysis of Romney's speech. You don't even mention the possible conflict in his statement that freedom requires religion? How can you not address that?

I think FactChecker needs to take on the "freedom requires religion" claim. Pull up some Constitutional excerpts and give him his four earned pinnochios.

Posted by: thecrisis | December 6, 2007 2:30 PM | Report abuse

I'm at a loss to understand the thinking of Republican party operatives if they really believe this: "former Baptist minister, southern governor -- could prove an appealing combination for moderate and independent voters"

That is the exact opposite of what they need to appeal to non-R voters. A social moderate and fiscal conservative (preferably not from the South) would be the most potent combination for moderate and independent voters, if the candidate doesn't have Guiliani's weaknesses.

Novamatt's post about how Huckabee plays well in states that will likely vote for the Republican candidate anyway, but will likely lose possible crossover states (particularly in the West) was spot-on.

Posted by: TEL1 | December 6, 2007 2:29 PM | Report abuse

Presidential Candidate Ron Paul Bears Empty Pot For Americans
December 6, 2007
Carl Fiser

The emperor looked over the vast array and seemed pleased. Then, he spotted Ling standing at the back of the room with his empty pot, and he ordered his guards to bring the young man to the front. Ling was led grudgingly, fearful that he may be punished for his utter failure. The emperor asked his name. "My name is Ling," he replied. Now, all the youths were laughing and making fun. The emperor then announced to the crowd, "Behold your new emperor! His name is Ling!"
The emperor continued,

Posted by: US-Citizen | December 6, 2007 2:29 PM | Report abuse

More like conservatives' worst nightmare. His record in Arkansas is worse on spending than even President Bush's, and he's just as soft on illegal immigration. Why vote for more of the same?

Posted by: drd6000 | December 6, 2007 2:23 PM | Report abuse

Governor Huckabee would be a very strong candidate. He comes from the South - A place where the Democrats can never seem to make inroads. So he shores up the base. He is also Governor and 4 out of the last 5 Presidents were Governors. When people want change they look to Governors, not VPs or Senators.

On similar note I am often troubled by the fact that articles on GOP candidates only attract fired up GOP activists to post and articles on Demcratic candidates only get fired up Democratic activitists posting. I think most of these posts are not taken from an objective viewpoint. I admit, I don't consider myself a Republican, but thought I should draw attention to Governor Huckabee's strengths based on some of the comments here.

Additionally, people should go back and look at voting trends in election over the past 2 or 3 decades to get a sense of where things are going now. The reliance on polls is very misleading because none of these candidates have really been introduced to American people through a convention or campaign. However the strong activists with either party always cite poll numbers when responding to these articles. These polls now will mean nothing when we get to Nov 2008 - and the time we have from now to then is equal to several lifetimes in politics.

Posted by: VApolitics | December 6, 2007 2:09 PM | Report abuse

Huckabee doesn't seem like a nightmare for Democrats to me. Yes, he has charm, but he turns around and does something really nasty the next chance he gets. He does have excellent credentials as an evangelical Christian, but his record in office will not hold up to scrutiny. And the evangelicals may hurt the Democrats in the South, but I don't see Huckabee getting much support from the rest of the Republicans in the country. I would say that Huckabee is more a scourge on the Republicans whose view he doesn't represent, yet whose base he charms. He might end up running his party while being pro-tax and pro-immigrant. I think that really scares his party.

Posted by: bghgh | December 6, 2007 2:05 PM | Report abuse

If Huckabee wasn't involved in the Dumond case and has nothing to hide, then why did he have Dumond's records transferred to the governor's office so they would not be subject to the Arkansas FOIA? He hid the fact that two women who were also victims of Dumond (a long-time violent offender) had written to him as well as the the parole board and asked that Dumond be denied parole because they feared he would be a threat to them and others.

Four members of the parole board are on record stating that Huckabee lobbied them to parole Dumond. Now Huckabee claims they're lying -- at the time, I recall that Huckabee was widely known to believe that the assault involving Ashley Stevens was bogus.

He also lied about Jim Guy Tucker's involvement in Dumond's parole -- Tucker commuted his sentence from life to 39 years, but never advocated for Dumond to be paroled. Clinton recused himself from the Dumond case because the victim was his distant cousin.

I don't trust Huckabee. What else is he hiding?

Posted by: memphis1 | December 6, 2007 2:01 PM | Report abuse

'finally something drindl knows a thing or two about from personal experience - actually the resident expert.'

Just can't stop thinking about me, can you zou? Practically all you talk about, all day every day. I mean, it's flattering, but I'm married you know. I suggest you seek help for your obssession with someone you've nevr even met. I feel such pity for you.

Btw, what did you say you did for a living again? You seem to have so much free time to think about me...

Posted by: drindl | December 6, 2007 2:01 PM | Report abuse

Huckleberry's strongest suit may be that he isn't a Clinton or Bush. Running on his record isn't such a good idea either, as he was known in Arkansas as "tax hike mike", seemed to pass out get out of jail cards quite liberally and being an ordained Shaman to the wingnut crowd isn't exactly a plus either.

Posted by: slim2 | December 6, 2007 2:01 PM | Report abuse

That Huckabee is even polling about 2% is an embarrassment for middle America. This guy VOCALLY disbelieves in evolution, one of the most strongly supported theories yet put forth by science. That he is not only polling well, but LEADING is sad and disquieting.

When will we STOP putting so much stock in FAITH, and expect more FACTS?

Posted by: FredEvil | December 6, 2007 1:57 PM | Report abuse

Only a DEMOCRATIC insider could fear a wingnut presidential candidate that DENIES EVOLUTION PUBLICLY!

YOU PEOPLE ARE WEAK AND DO NOT DESERVE TO WIN WITH IDEAS LIKE THAT! TIME TO SWEEP THE DECKS OF THE FEARFUL NON-LEADERS IN THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY.

Please begin with the two weakest members - Harry Reid and Nancy Pelosi. Totally unqualified to serve givcen their weakness in the face of neo-con idiots.

Posted by: onestring | December 6, 2007 1:56 PM | Report abuse

"so nuts in their hatred "

finally something drindl knows a thing or two about from personal experience - actually the resident expert.

Posted by: kingofzouk | December 6, 2007 1:52 PM | Report abuse

Huckabee is a strawman being constructed by the leftist media and is the most beatable Republican in the race. He will present a negligible threat to any future Democratic nominee and therefore will ensure a Democratic victory in the 2008 presidential election. This is an innovative ruse but I seriously doubt that it will work.

Posted by: rplat | December 6, 2007 1:48 PM | Report abuse

Posted by: rplat | December 6, 2007 1:47 PM | Report abuse

11 months ago I said Huckabee would be the strongest general candidate the Republicans could run, since he is charismatic and has some appealing liberal positions while gaining the solid support of the evangelical base. That said, am I scared of him? No. He spots the democrats a 1% (Clinton) to 5% (Obama) lead in the polls. He's a creationist (!!!) He has no foreign policy experience. He's been reprimanded repeatedly for ethics violations despite his holier-than-thou image, and Arkansas reporters refer to him as "his huffiness." And libertarians will leave the party in droves to vote for a third party candidate rather than "Tax Hike Mike."

Posted by: Nissl | December 6, 2007 1:38 PM | Report abuse

""In 1996, as a newly elected governor who had received strong support from the Christian right, Huckabee was under intense pressure from conservative activists to pardon Dumond or commute his sentence. The activists claimed that Dumond's initial imprisonment and various other travails were due to the fact that Ashley Stevens, the high school cheerleader he had raped, was a distant cousin of Bill Clinton, and the daughter of a Clinton campaign contributor.

The case for Dumond's innocence was championed in Arkansas by Jay Cole, a Baptist minister and radio host who was a close friend of the Huckabee family. It also became a cause for New York Post columnist Steve Dunleavy, who repeatedly argued for Dumond's release, calling his conviction "a travesty of justice." On Sept. 21, 1999, Dunleavy wrote a column headlined "Clinton's Biggest Crime - Left Innocent Man In Jail For 14 Years":

"Dumond, now 52, was given conditional parole yesterday in Arkansas after having being sentenced to 50 years in jail for the rape of Clinton's cousin," Dunleavy wrote. "That rape never happened."""

Thse people were so nuts in their hatred of Clinton that they pretended a child was never raped, even though there was definitive physical evidence. Go ahead and try to revise hisstory tho, you wingers are good at that.

Posted by: drindl | December 6, 2007 1:37 PM | Report abuse

Always makes me nervous when the MSM starts pushing a Repub for President. Are they looking for the Candidate that any of the Demos could beat, to make sure they do. The rise of Huckabee is because of all the MSM coverage. He cannot buy that kind of campaign ads. This will be a very interesting election time, would not be surprised if we actually have a Convention that means something, like picking a Candidate for a change.

Posted by: eafcat | December 6, 2007 1:32 PM | Report abuse

Sure if Huckabee runs as a christian candidate he'll get crossover christians to vote for him. However there are a lot of people in this country at this point, who don't like the evangelicalism that is present in the Bush Administration. He might be a true compassionate conservative but his candidacy would push many republicans and independents to voting for a more secular candidate instead and definately would highlight regional differences in a time where even the south is not so sure it is deeply republican, as virginia is breaking away and thats going to be a campaign issue.

Also Huckabee is not seen as very experianced in foreign policy. And creationism, if he supports it, is a major flaw with quite a few people in the country. If the evangelicals want their own candidate that is fine but they'll lose a lot of the secular republicans and while they might get some democrats, i don't know if they would get enough. I would be happier honestly if they were honest about their politics and left us with more political idealogies to choose from instead of this 2 major party crap.

Posted by: persimonix | December 6, 2007 1:28 PM | Report abuse

An election is not a popularity contest for the voters of only one party. It takes a person who also appeals to voters of the OPPOSITE party. That is how Kerry lost.

Posted by: dunnhaupt | December 6, 2007 1:26 PM | Report abuse

Just what the country needs another "flat earth" president with a mild southern Baptist Preacher approach........No way...another Republican jamming God down our throat....

Finally, can we please elect a skilled leader and public administrator not weighted down with dark age thoughts of the way to do business......Enough God, already!!!!

Posted by: fare777 | December 6, 2007 1:25 PM | Report abuse

youcrew: yes, it's a very clever name, since the tax is anything but fair.

Posted by: Spectator2 | December 6, 2007 1:22 PM | Report abuse

There is a lot more to the DuMond case than a simple parole and as the former Drindl has suggest in posts his hatred of Bill Clinton was his MO. Pleassssse...releasing a convicted rapist just because he raped a distant cousin...who really has tin foil picking up moon beams.

There are a lot of extenuating circumstances in the case none of which have been vetted yet, but I am sure if Hillary or any other D is nominated and MH is the R nominee all the facts will be ignore along with nuance of the case and the issue will go totally negative...something both parties do so effectively.

If you hold MH accountable for the death of woman what accountability do you hold all the D candidates for voting for the war in Iraq? The data both MH and the D reviewed appeared to suggest something that now has been proven wrong.

DuMond was a model prisoner who on the outside appeared to be rehabilitated and no longer a threat to society. If he was such a threat why did he receive any yes votes for his parole the first time he came-up for review? If he was perceived to be such a threat why did the parole board vote yes the second time around? Who is to say the parole board is not covering their backs by laying the blame on MH. What type of parole board was this that they would vote for a dangerous criminal to keep a job (another MO suggested in the vote). What type of governor would appoint these people...oh yeah it was Clinton (has to be true).

Posted by: sltiowa | December 6, 2007 1:21 PM | Report abuse

Gah, "LoudounVoter", not "LoudonVoter".
Preview, preview, preview.

Posted by: youcrew | December 6, 2007 1:17 PM | Report abuse

Gah, "conversation." Preview, preview, preview.

Posted by: novamatt | December 6, 2007 1:11 PM | Report abuse

LoudonVoter: Thanks for the clarification.

It is still a great name. If you are opposed to the "FAIR Tax", does that mean that you support an "Unfair Tax"?

Clever PR.

Posted by: youcrew | December 6, 2007 1:11 PM | Report abuse

I'd like to see more polling on Huckabee vs. specific Democratic candidates, state by state. My guess, based on the prominence of his religion and his quasi-populist economic stance, is that Huck would do better than other R's in the South and Midwest, and worse than the other first-tier R's in the Pacific and Mountain West, Rust Belt, and Northeast. The trouble for Huck is that the states he'd do better in are the states that Bush already won in '00 and '04, and he'd likely be losing NV, CO, NM, OH, maybe AZ and FL.

Also, and I know others have pointed this out, but it's very important: the moneybags hate him. They'd rather sit this one out and wait for the next cycle than help elect someone like him. How's Huck going to do if he doesn't have the $$ for the air and ground games, if he's outspent 2-to-1 (or worse) by the D nominee?

And, also, let's be completely honest here: sure, sure, the Gang have a crush on Huck right now, but once the initial bloom wears off, Huck's a fundamentalist preacher who espouses some beliefs that non-fundamentalists consider nutty. And none of the Gang are fundamentalists, and very few are even comfortable with that subculture. We could be in for a long semi-hysterical national conversationalism about theological extremism, and that's probably not what Huck wants to be talking about. This could be Goldwateresque.

Posted by: novamatt | December 6, 2007 1:09 PM | Report abuse

I liked Huckabee a while back. I'd seen an interview of him and I thought he sounded like a rational Republican (and believe me, I am desperate for rational Republicans).

But, you can't just say he was given bad information about Wayne Dumond and give him a pass. He put his political ambitions over the welfare and safety of the public. Telling Dumond he had to leave Arkansas was the condition of his parole? Are you f*ing kidding me? Such a release shows everyone involved knew he was going to prey on someone else's mother, sister, daughter--they just wanted it to be somewhere the Arkansas media wouldn't know about it right away.

The one and only reason Wayne Dumond was released from a just prison sentence, one in which he would have never had the opportunity to hurt anyone else ever again, was because the rabid right in Arkansas hated Bill Clinton. How could Huckabee have ever even considered the case something he could get behind, other than the fact that it appealed to some very very maladjusted people?

Huckabee is another 1% winner, willing to do anything to get those fringe votes that will put him over the top of his competitors, and damn the consequences.

We've had enough of those kind of leaders to last us another millenia. Will Huckabee address global warming? Won't that upset the far right? Will he do anything about the war on peace (the one GW Bush has given the Orwellian name of the War on Terror)?

No, he is not the right man for the job. The pet issues of people without a shred of sense are the buttons he would be pushing. As president, how many Wayne Dumonds will he set loose on the world? We cannot afford to find out.

Posted by: LiberalTarian | December 6, 2007 1:06 PM | Report abuse

youcrew: You just demonstrated part of the problem. The flat tax and the FairTax are completely different animals.

Flat tax proposals are still income taxes. The FairTax is a national sales tax. The two have nothing in common.

But of course, that's why the FairTax will never become law. No country on earth has a national sales tax and the US isn't going to be the guinea pig. We

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