Bill Frist is the new Senate majority leader. Who would have thought he’d get the support of his colleagues and the White House so quickly? The obvious reason for the quick coalescing of support – and the one I’m inclined to – is that Frist will make a terrific majority leader. In the spirit of cynical political analysis, however, I still wonder why these folks gave Frist so much support. Here’s a theory: Maybe they did it to get him out of the presidential race in 2008.
It’s well known that Frist has national ambitions. It’s possible, even likely, that he’ll run for president in 2008. Frist won the gratitude of Republicans by successfully running the 2002 Senate campain. He then voluntarily stepped down to focus on building a legislative record, especially on health care issues, which would have served as an excellent springboard for running for president. His potential 2008 rivals include Senator George Allen (R-VA) and Jeb Bush. Allen was one of the first senators to step out and support Frist. The White House stayed lukewarm towards Lott. These events helped make Frist majority leader. Now, notice that Allen and Jeb Bush are both considered potential 2008 presidential contenders. What better way to weaken their most formidable opponent than to give him the majority leader’s job?
Frist’s presidential candidacy may be hampered by becoming majority leader because:
1. Frist has promised his constituents not to run for re-election in 2006. Now that he’s majority leader, will he really want to step down? Especially if Republicans build on their Senate majority (as is looking increasingly likely) in 2004?
2. Senate majority leaders accumulate considerable ideological baggage, which makes it difficult for them to portray themselves as centrists. Just ask Bob Dole. Or even Tom Daschle.
Personally, I’m hoping Frist won’t get demonized for being the majority leader, the way Daschle has. I’m hoping he’ll be a successful majority leader, not seek re-election to the Senate in 2006 and run for president in 2008. Frist is extraordinarily successful at everything he does. He’s a solid conservative (ACU rating 100) who knows how to put on a moderate face, just like George W. Bush. He would make a superb president.
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