Being apolitical, I view the assemblage of the current Republican candidates as a singularly uninspiring and insignificant bunch. As to Hillary Clinton, despite her impeccable credentials for the job -- Vassar, Yale, the boonies of Arkansas, US Senate, and the Secretary of State -- she lacks the fighting spirit of her Democratic predecessor, Madeleine Albright, and her self-demeaning behavior after her husband's sexual hanky-pancky do not make her a suitable presidential candidate.
2
We gotta be able to do better than this Hillary and the several dwarfs show we have.
5
I'm glad he's running for Pres. That means we can get rid of him as Senator. I can't think of one thing he has done to add value to the governing process.
35
Rubio has the benefit of a convincing, winning smile. As do Obama and Mr. Clinton. He has several disadvantages. 1. He is not African American which won victory for Obama. 2. He is not a Democrat. With the preponderance of the educational establishment from Pre-K through Ph. D.; the non-Fox/WSJ media; the entertainment industry; the government patronage jobs; labor union monopolies and extortionate trial lawyer billions plus non-profit "activists" going near 100% for any breathing LiberalProgressiveDemocrat it is a huge barrier simply being a Republican. The NY Times has commenced tearing down each threatening Republican. Christie first, Paul next, now Rubio. Bush being
3
Funny to see the target already placed on Rubio. He has much of the same appeal that a young Obama had when he came onto the scene. His message will be centered on making America strong again, both economically and in leadership internationally. That will strike a cord with many. Let's not write him off just yet. America will rally behind a man with a vision in these tumultuous times. He can certainly articulate that message and will get many independents on board just like Obama did. He'll also get much of the Latino vote, not just because he speaks Spanish, but because he promotes more traditional family values, which are huge for many hispanic families. Si se puede!
2
actually he has none of the appeal of Obama other than Obama and Rubio were junior senators. Obama's past represents true achievement (Columbia University/Harvard Law/Editor of Harvard Law review) overshadow Rubio's past of just getting elected. Now Rubio has to backtrack his immigration reform plan. He is just an empty suit, the worst type of politician--he stands for nothing.
38
Rubio nailed it
He is an excellent candidate to push us out of
Socialism!
He is an excellent candidate to push us out of
Socialism!
2
Yes, because the GOP policy toward Cuba for the past 50 years has worked so well in ending socialism in that country. Have you been in suspended animation since the 1960s? Sure sounds like it.
34
Polished performer? His parched television performance was so bad I actually felt sorry for him.
35
It would be very difficult for a thirsty (see 2013 GOP response), token Republican like Rubio to get enough support to win the Republican nomination for President, in 2016.
7
The premise in the title of the article shows a decided lack of understanding regarding "polished" performers. To wit: I live in Florida and have followed Rubio from the beginning. What I've discovered is that he does his best work in his bio. As soon as he stands and speaks, however, all hope is lost.
He's supposed to be Cuban but he doesn't have an accent and when he's being his most earnest his voice comes out like that of a small boy. This is not what his bio advertises.
As for his positions, who actually knows where he stands on anything? And if you think you know what he stands for, watch out, as soon as the wind blows in a different direction he'll change.
I cannot think of a single voting bloc that he could call his constituency...
He's supposed to be Cuban but he doesn't have an accent and when he's being his most earnest his voice comes out like that of a small boy. This is not what his bio advertises.
As for his positions, who actually knows where he stands on anything? And if you think you know what he stands for, watch out, as soon as the wind blows in a different direction he'll change.
I cannot think of a single voting bloc that he could call his constituency...
31
Nobody even talking about her anymore...
Hillary was yesterday...
Marco is today.
Hillary was yesterday...
Marco is today.
1
Mr. Rubio's best strategy in the early primaries (using bicycle racing terminology) is to draft Cruz, Huckabey and Paul as they try to knock down Bush and Walker. That is, not to spend too many calories in trying to stay in front of that trio. If those three (the three stooges?) collectively are effective at undercutting the two more establishment front runners, while damaging each other, then it improves Rubio's chances of knocking them out one by one in the subsequent primaries while gaining credibility among the party core (and $$) as a viable alternative to the tired Bush brand and the generally reviled (high negatives) and otherwise unappealing Walker.
Rube's one heck of a bottled water salesman, but that's about all.
21
So, Rubio joins other small-minded boys, full of conceits, in the sandbox. More of them are yet to arrive. They squabble, flip-flop, prevaricate and fabricate. Boys will be boys, and as we know, they have nothing of any consequence to say to us or to each other, save lame epithets and puerile challenges.
Think of the Republican primaries as shooting galleries at county fairs, the wannabe presidential nominees as targets, and the voters as shooters. One by one the least favorite wannabes will be picked off, leaving the Republicans with one last man standing (it will surely be a man). But in the end, as if by magic, armor in the form of money will determine who survive. And a good, money-soaked time will have been had by all.
Think of the Republican primaries as shooting galleries at county fairs, the wannabe presidential nominees as targets, and the voters as shooters. One by one the least favorite wannabes will be picked off, leaving the Republicans with one last man standing (it will surely be a man). But in the end, as if by magic, armor in the form of money will determine who survive. And a good, money-soaked time will have been had by all.
6
As a republican, I would much prefer Rubio to Bush. The more I learn about Marco Rubio, the more I like him.
4
I try to give all politicians a chance but for some reason Rubio seems off the me. Maybe he is a plant by the rich? I dunno I think the media is more hyping him up. My bet (could be wrong) he will fizzle fast. Rubio is the second best type of candidate that the establishment want. He is in waiting in case Bush flops. He knows Bush and this could be a VP bid. i see that as the real deal here to get latino votes. Republicans think just putting one on the ticket and they will vote for them..made the same mistake in 2008 with a woman.
5
The president and vice-president cannot be from the same state.
3
The primary season between Mf Bush and Mr Rubio will do more damage to the Florida Republican party than they realize.
Knowing how the Cuban vote reacts, I can see great disappointment with Mr Bush if he wins the nomination, which he probably will, and folks to sit out the election. It is hard to explain to the citizenry of Miami-Dade, that you cannot have two candidates from the same state. Do I see here the classic "it is my way or the highway"? Hillary, take notice.
Knowing how the Cuban vote reacts, I can see great disappointment with Mr Bush if he wins the nomination, which he probably will, and folks to sit out the election. It is hard to explain to the citizenry of Miami-Dade, that you cannot have two candidates from the same state. Do I see here the classic "it is my way or the highway"? Hillary, take notice.
1
Sure, Rubio can string words together to form sentences, but his ideas are so lightweight that I just can't take him seriously. I don't know if he's stupid, but he's tremendously unimpressive. That such a young man is on the wrong side of so many issues--such as normalizing relations with Cuba-- shows neither vision, foresight, leadership, or honesty.
19
So who is going to report on how Rubio's family arrived here from Cuba instead of all of this cotton candy fluff?
4
If Rubio is as smart as I think he is, he realizes he is not going to win the nomination, but getting his name and his views out there will make him an excellent Vice Presidential candidate for say Jeb Bush. If he does, they seal all Florida's electoral votes and will garner the Hispanic vote. That could be huge for them. Hillary is snobbish and arrogant, prone to emotional outbursts and will have to distance herself not only from Obama but from Bill if she wants to win, because every news outlet will ask her the question which will certainly cause her to meltdown and that question will be "if you will will Bill pull the strings?" We all know the answer and I am not sure who she could tap for vice president (Bill?) . I am still not 100% convinced that Hillary won't blow it. She won't stand up well in debates especially if Benghazi comes up.
2
Rubio is indeed stupid. He actually believes that the earth is only 5000 years old. He doesn't say it just to curry political favor from stupid people. (this makes me ask myself, "why not make presidential candidates take some sort of intelligence test, like an adult SAT?" but that's another comment for another column...) Additionally, he's disingenuous, having told people the heart warming story of his brave parents coming to Miami to escape Castro, when in fact they came over for economic opportunity reasons two years or so before Castro took over.
18
Just curious. Neither of Marco Rubio's parents were US citizens at his birth. His mother was pregnant with him when she came to the US illegally. So... I'm not sure that he would qualify as a natural born citizen of the US, which would make him ineligable to hold the office of POTUS. Additionally, his family came to Miami (illegally) prior to the wet foot/dry foot policy.
6
Rubio-Fiorina
Quite right: "Rubio out of position"....He hasn't learned to be a King or Queen yet.
1
So what good is effective communication when your message is garbage?
14
At best, he is running for VP, or more likely he is running for a book deal. He's not a viable candidate, he won't attract the hispanic voter b/c he is Cuban not Hispanic (there is a difference). He doesn't have the smarts like Jeb and he's flip-flopped between trying to be like Jeb (pragmatic) and the tea party group (crazy). He's not even that well though of in Florida (again, Jeb was generally well liked by both sides).
2
Rubio cast himself as a tea party hero when he ran for Senate because Crist had the Florida party establishment on his side. Once in DC, he abandoned the tea party, a defection they will not soon forget. They have long memories.
5
Agree and disagree with this article entirely. Yes he has no chance of winning the presidency this time around. But Rubio is actually running for Vice President, for which he has a good chance if the Republicans take it. The 12th amendment would complicate things for him if Jeb Bush wins the nomination, but would not be a disqualifier.
At least from one side, the contest is expanding and there will be rigorous debate. The other side is simply stale, celebrates mediocrity and is too expensive.
I stopped paying attention to Marco Rubio years ago, after he was caught lying about exactly when his parents came to this country from Cuba. Instead of fleeing from their home after Castro took power as he'd claimed the elder Rubios had in fact come to the U. S. several years earlier, for "economic opportunity." Nothing wrong with that so why'd Senator Rubio feel the need to lie about it? Just a better story, I guess. No problem for him that it just wasn't true. Minor detail.
11
Rubio is in the learning process on the communication front, which is a difficult challenge for anyone, especially someone relatively new to the national stage. Rubio seems well equipped to master that task if given time. A more substantive issue is whether Rubio's bridging of the Republicans' internal divide will work. My guess is that none can opine fairly on that subject, yet. This will be an interesting Republican primary, probably more interesting than the Democrats' primary.
Senator Rubio will wilt under the public scrutiny that awaits him. He is not smart enough to avoid gaffs when explaining his tax plan or stance on discrimination.
3
The Republicans are wrong in thinking that Marco Rubio will have appeal among Latino voters in the general election period. Cubans are not beloved by any of the other Latino blocks the biggest of which is the Mexican American faction. Cubans are seen correctly as having benefited from a way easier path to government benefits and citizenship than any other immigrant group (Thank you JFK). The elder Cubans in America are also known to be a very racist group which means he will make no inroads into Americas African American populace. Rubio has pandered to the typical Tea Party crowd elder white male voters aka the Fox viewers group. This will get him no closer to the nomination and he stands zip chance in a general election. Rubio is a "palomilla" patriot Cuban opposed to opening up relations with Cuba because that is what he knows plays well with the old white hawks on the hill and the old Cubans. Easy to talk talk talk and never actually do anything for your people here or on the island but say Abajo Fidel every election cycle while enjoying your Palomilla Steak meals here in America. Rubio can't even touch Barack Obamas hem when it comes to talent, intellect and integrity. OBAMANOS!
6
Being "called"-- by Fox News--"the best communicator" is certainly an enviable distinction for a non-blonde who is also male. I am sure Sen. Rubio thanked them appropriately.
As a Florida resident, I am overwhelmingly grateful that Sen. Rubio has been convinced to try out for the part formerly played by Dan Quayle. An open Florida senate seat in a Presidential year is a bonus for Democrats and a gift to Floridians who deserve two working senators, not just one.
As a Florida resident, I am overwhelmingly grateful that Sen. Rubio has been convinced to try out for the part formerly played by Dan Quayle. An open Florida senate seat in a Presidential year is a bonus for Democrats and a gift to Floridians who deserve two working senators, not just one.
11
Well, he is kind of cute. So there is that demographic...
2
"a Polished Performer, but He’s Out of Position" so is the "Times".
1
I am a registered Democrat. I voted twice for Obama. I regret very much the second time. Yes, Rubio is the most talented in the bunch. We had Obama with positions in domestic policies that I support, and in foreign policy that I view as very dangerous and which brings chills to my spine. My prediction is that Obama's domestic accomplishments will pale in comparison to the his failed foreign policies, when its results start to unravel, as Iran builds a nuclear bomb, and the Middle East will be in complete chaos. Also, looking at the state of the Democratic party, Obama's legacy is 33 Republican governors, House and Senate with Republican majorities, and over 1000 Republican State legislators elected since he took office. Quite an accomplishment... I will hesitate voting for a third Obama term, unless I hear from Hilary what she thinks about the Iran so called agreement (should be called complete capitulation). I suspect she will support it, assuming that she was involved in back door discussions when Secretary of State. Rubio might turn out to be the Republican Obama. He will go through the excruciating primaries, will grow up, and mature. I will not vote for another Bush. I hope Rubio is the Republican candidate. He might as well get my vote.
1
Obama had the temerity to be the first president in memory to actually not agree uncritically with everything the current Israeli Prime Minister wanted him to support. You clearly regard that as an unpardonable offense and that shows unambiguously where your head is at. Netanyahu revealed his true colors on election eve when he revealed that he was actually against the two-state solution he had mendaciously claimed to support and when he played the race card to get more Israeli Jews to go to the polls. Next time, come right out and speak your mind and stop pretending that your problems with Obama stem from anything other than his refusal to genuflect to Netanyahu and to allow himself to be manipulated by Netanyahu and AIPAC.
4
I disagree that Jeb Bush will be either his main rival in this race or a closet ally later on down the road…I don’t take Jeb as seriously as the pundits and journalists do. He won’t win Iowa, New Hampshire, or South Carolina, so how Bush would be able to gain the momentum to somehow win the nomination after taking Florida (which even then, is not guaranteed) I’m not sure.
Rubio will probably win Florida, in all likelihood. He would be wise to invest whatever resources he has here. But he’s likely to end up kind of like Newt Gingrich, taking one state and then not being able to amount to anything more than that. Maybe he would be somebody’s VP candidate, but I’d rather just see him disappear.
Rubio will probably win Florida, in all likelihood. He would be wise to invest whatever resources he has here. But he’s likely to end up kind of like Newt Gingrich, taking one state and then not being able to amount to anything more than that. Maybe he would be somebody’s VP candidate, but I’d rather just see him disappear.
1
Are we kidding? Rubio for dog catcher would be a reach.
2
Is ANYONE thinking this has legs? Obama is cutting the Cuba issue, his main appeal, out from under his legs. And he has nothing else to offer to Middle America. And he was ABSENT in the tornado. "Vote for me, I have a Hispanic sounding name, if not an accent." Sheesh
6
What galls you is that some candidates just want to get in with a sense of entitlement and/or super ego. There is nothing distinguishing nor accomplished in this Senator as yet to even justify talks of a Presidential ambition. He could have stood out with his ethnic/immigrant background with a unique position but kowtowed to the party sentiment. On Cuba, he is proving again as disastrously out of tune with both US and Latin American sentiment supporting Obama's courageous moves - again, a chance lost to create his own tune.
Yes, Obama was green too, but at least his message clearly stood out with a signal-noise ration against the field. Here, just a background din.
Again, his best judgement would have been to ally with Jeb, get the establishment gratitude, and position himself for 4 or 8 years down. Bad judgement surfaces time and again!
Yes, Obama was green too, but at least his message clearly stood out with a signal-noise ration against the field. Here, just a background din.
Again, his best judgement would have been to ally with Jeb, get the establishment gratitude, and position himself for 4 or 8 years down. Bad judgement surfaces time and again!
3
One of the reasons I think Rubio is struggling to find traction is because like Scott Walker, he is a "me too" candidate. Does anybody know what Rubio stands for? Apart from co-sponsoring a botched immigration bill, he has not advocated any kind of meaningful policies--except to oppose anything Obama does. I am not a political consultant, but if Cruz, Walker, Rubio, and other "conservative candidates" want to win the presidency of the U.S., they need to stop living in the past, and begin offering practical solutions to governance in a complex world. Up to now, I have not heard much to convince me that they are worthy of my vote--and I suspect that I am not alone.
10
Not qualified to be a US senator and a laughable canditate to be president... when will these right wing bigots give up? Probably never because they get to keep the unused money donated to fund the campaign.
7
"Marco Rubio ... has been called the “best communicator” in the Republican Party. Over and over and over again." Is that a little bit like being called the world's tallest jockey, or in homage to Marco's famous "water bottle fiasco," the world's wettest desert? If we want to go with the author's basketball metaphors, not only is Rubio "boxed out" but he's got no shot and no ups either. Indeed, his senatorial career could be described by the basketball box score term "DNP" which stands for "Did not play," because he has done exactly nothing as a Senator.
6
I think he is eyeing the Vice-Presidential nomination and really plans to make a rush for 2020.
1
Is mr. Rubio Cuban or Cuban-Canadian?
1
I think a large share of the public sees Rubio as unappealing politician for several reasons.
1. He is far too eager, having just gotten into the senate and into to national politics, he is seen as having been running for the white house almost forever.
2. He has shown no legislative skills or even interests. He spends almost all of his time working on his political quest for a national office and seems disinterested in the position he now holds.
3. He has a baby face and no gravitas to speak of. He needs to sharpen his profile by developing genuine expertise on important national issues and to lose his reputation for 'pot shot' politics.
4. He comes off as a sharply partisan right winger who always has a ready and overly honed barb for Obama and the democrats. He can say nothing about any national issue without negatively implicating this President and it shows. If he was more bi- partisan, he would take on more gravitas and seem more serious.
5. He ought to wait a few years and if he does become a serious legislator, the party will come to him and he will then be ready and - certainly - willing!
1. He is far too eager, having just gotten into the senate and into to national politics, he is seen as having been running for the white house almost forever.
2. He has shown no legislative skills or even interests. He spends almost all of his time working on his political quest for a national office and seems disinterested in the position he now holds.
3. He has a baby face and no gravitas to speak of. He needs to sharpen his profile by developing genuine expertise on important national issues and to lose his reputation for 'pot shot' politics.
4. He comes off as a sharply partisan right winger who always has a ready and overly honed barb for Obama and the democrats. He can say nothing about any national issue without negatively implicating this President and it shows. If he was more bi- partisan, he would take on more gravitas and seem more serious.
5. He ought to wait a few years and if he does become a serious legislator, the party will come to him and he will then be ready and - certainly - willing!
6
I find these horse race stories to be boring and pointless, but for some reason media outlets like The Times focus on them to the exclusion of information that is actually of some value to voters. Why? A voter with a brain wants to know what Rubio has ever done that matters. Is there anything? He has been a leader of the Florida Legislature and a US senator. Has he ever actually accomplished anything of any benefit to his constituents? I daresay that 9 out of 10 people who are familiar with his name would not be able to answer that question, and stories like this one do nothing to help. I do wish the editors of The Times would stop wasting space on nonsense like this and write stories that actually tell voters whether it makes any sense to support a given candidate, considering his record.
3
Mr. Rubio has very little experience governing and no mandate other than to repeal the progress of the past said hears. Why is the Times not pressuring him to explain his rationale as they are with Mrs. Clinton?
2
Rubio, Cruz and Paul all suffer from the same problem: no accomplishments, no evidence of compromise, and a large dose of hubris and lack of credibility.
36
So, he's the second coming of Obama, then. Interesting.
Don't forget Scott Walker,The Wisconsin trainwreck...
And Hillary's list of accomplishments is much more glimmering, right? Let's see, as a lawyer she took 5 cases to trial in 20 years, she was fired from the Watergate council for unethical behavior and nearly disbarred, she has almost no legislation paired with her name except Hillarycare in the 90's which led to the largest political swing in power since the Civil War, and her husband's famous "days of big government are over" speech. What accomplishments was Obama elected on?
Nate Cohn: I have yet to do an internet search but I haven't previously come across any analysis on "placing", not "winning" the primary. To what extent would a Vice-President slot on the ticket enter a candidate's calculus? Given Mr. Rubio's age (he has more opportunities in the future) and how his candidacy might be dominated by other candidates (including Mr. Bush, who likely would not consider a Vice-President spot), would "playing for second" be almost as good for him?
The only ticket worse than 2 Floridians -Bush Rubio- would be a ticket with 2 Texans -Cruz Perry.
When I dream of presidential candidates I dream of a statesperson who is at least somewhat equipped to meet the leaders and people of the rest of the Earth. Mr. Rubio is not that person. Rubio or Cruz or Santorum would take laughable to a whole new level and make fools of us all on the international stage. Jeb would be better (certainly better than his brother) but I can't see any Republican candidate yet who could carry it off in an intelligent way.
12
RIght, Linda. Obama has done a much better job than any of the Republicans could at being a statesman. Alienating our allies, submitting to and placating our enemies, dodging important international issues, and emboldening rogue Islamic regimes and terrorists. He has made us fools already. That's why Russia and Iran don't respect us and Islamic radicalism has spread its chaos throughout the Middle East. Rubio has more statesmanship in his pinky finger than Obama or Hillary ever dreamed of possessing.
The United States is already the international fool. But with Putin moving on our former allies, Iran guaranteed a lethal weapon of mass destruction and ISIS a choppin', it is no laughing matter. Obama is, as they say, an existential threat. We have few countries that trust us to help us. And you vilify Republicans, any of whom has a strong backbone.
I can't support any candidate who begins a sentence, "I'm not a scientist, but..."
30
This article mentions a 'Ted Cruz". Is he any relation to Rafael Edward Cruz,the Canadian born politician?
6
Unfortunately, many Cubans in the States I have met, hold a jaundice view of Mr Rubio, even to calling his stupid. Watching him over the last couple of years I have come to the conclusion, they may be right.Nice guy, sincere, honest, but stupid. Not a great profile when one's own people have a negative opinion.
35
It has been observed on more than a few occasions, most notably on issues related to foreign affairs, that he doesn't seem to know what he's talking about. Unsettling, to say the least.
1
So this is what "American Exceptionalism" looks like? Rubio an exceptional communicator! This hysteria of producing a whole class of winners (everybody gets a prize), has led us to lower the bar way too much; infact so much that "American Exceptionalism" might soon become synonymous with "exceptionally challenged" in the rest of the world. Lets kick start our "Exceptionalism" by voting out leaders hell bent on "taking back America", to medieval period I may add.
46
We can thank John Mc Cain and his choice of Sarah Pailin for letting virtually any cretin think they can be the leader of the free world.
What a maroon.
Less than zero chance of winning yet throws away a Senate seat.
Thank you hayzus and the megalomania of twits.
Less than zero chance of winning yet throws away a Senate seat.
Thank you hayzus and the megalomania of twits.
35
Rubio will have plenty of job opportunities even if his presidential ambitions don't pan out.
Rand Paul or Jeb Bush are more likely to do better in the general election than is Rubio. Rubio has a more appealing appearance but he is obviously manipulating what he says to satisfy his audience and it gives him a weaker image of the young man trying to appeal to everyone rather than being a strong character with a well defined principles. Paul projects firm views which are sometimes unrealistically based upon libertarian ideals but overall he seems quite reasonable and informed while Bush projects an adept politico's ability to project confidence and competence with principles without upsetting anyone's core interests.
4
Rubio is articulate but way too immature for the job. Although he may appear to have an advantage as a Hispanic, the reality is that Cubans are not viewed as representative of the Hispanic vote. I am Hispanic and can tell you that he won't get my vote. Cuban emigres were an exploitive class in Cuba.
10
Let's set up a straw man and knock it down, then dismiss the candidate we don't like. Rinse and repeat.
7
Nate Cohen wrote
"Scott Walker, who took on unions and won in Wisconsin, is a conservative hero."
Sadly this is true, though you could replace the word "unions" with "teachers" as they will bear the brunt of this attack from Scott Walker.. The same Unions that could give the children of these "conservative voters" a better wage, and maybe even a (gasp) pension will now be subject to no job security or benefits.
But that means little to these Conservative voters in the Iowa caucuses who will only judge, and chose the Republican candidates based on their "Right to Life" and "Protecting the Unborn" credentials.
Then the rest of the country will be expected to embrace the wacko candidates who emerge from this process.
"Scott Walker, who took on unions and won in Wisconsin, is a conservative hero."
Sadly this is true, though you could replace the word "unions" with "teachers" as they will bear the brunt of this attack from Scott Walker.. The same Unions that could give the children of these "conservative voters" a better wage, and maybe even a (gasp) pension will now be subject to no job security or benefits.
But that means little to these Conservative voters in the Iowa caucuses who will only judge, and chose the Republican candidates based on their "Right to Life" and "Protecting the Unborn" credentials.
Then the rest of the country will be expected to embrace the wacko candidates who emerge from this process.
40
Rubio opposes marriage equality, but also says he opposes discrimination against gays and lesbians. Huh? Opposing marriage equality supports discrimnation against gays and lesbians!
38
But it sounds reasonable to the right, sadder still.
4
Rubio's dilemma is that exactly the same things that would make him the toughest Republican for a Democrat to beat make it impossible for him to win the nomination; the more he fudges toward winning the nomination, the more he loses that electability edge. It's fascinating to see the Republicans do this same thing to their best candidate, election after election, and equally fascinating that none of them ever decide to try to buck the tread by telling their "core" the realities.
4
Marco Rubio was down 35 points in the primary in 2010 to Establishment GOP Senate candidate Charlie Crist (the ultimate RINO).
Rubio was told it wasn't his turn, he had no chance, he would irk the Party leaders, ruin his career.
Rubio went ahead anyway, and won going away....watch out, he may well do it again on the national level...
Rubio was told it wasn't his turn, he had no chance, he would irk the Party leaders, ruin his career.
Rubio went ahead anyway, and won going away....watch out, he may well do it again on the national level...
3
Doubt it.
5
The American voting public is nothing like the voters in Florida where being a Tea Party Debutante means something, so no actually he will not repeat his Senate victory on the national level.
And if he does it again America better watch out! This man is an empty suit with an ego bigger than the country.
Who are these people that would vote for him?
Who are these people that would vote for him?
We all know that political commentators prefer to talk about the "horse race" -- i.e., what the candidate stands in the polls -- instead of the candidates political positions. More discussion of what the politician's political positions are would be more useful to your readers.
If you want to talk about the "horse race," at least talk about the aspect(s) of the pole that impact the candidate's position in the pole. This would provide the reader with a better indication of which of the candidate's political positions are supported and by whom.
If you want to talk about the "horse race," at least talk about the aspect(s) of the pole that impact the candidate's position in the pole. This would provide the reader with a better indication of which of the candidate's political positions are supported and by whom.
13
Rubio understands that a Republican Presidential hopeful must satisfy people who think that change is unnecessary and will adversely affect them while appealing to the broad electorate means offering change which must transform the way our country is now operating to provide greater prosperity and opportunity. He ends up with a message that is not going to satisfy anyone. He either has to become as gracelessly reactionary as Cruz or as moderately conservative as Jeb Bush to control either constituency but he is not going to be able to do it.
2
Marco Rubio is the unmitigate triump of sizzle over steak and a sad reflection on all of us.
He has not really contributed anything other than a pretty face, lies (he is an exile? give me a break), financial obscurantism and possibly corruption (his shennanigans with the RNC Credit Card was into the hundreds of thousands).
Luckily, he will not get elected. If a republican wins it will be Bush.
Unluckily he is young enough to do another run after the 8 years of whomever wins.
With any luck I will be dead in 10 years and not have to witness a potential win by this fake.
He has not really contributed anything other than a pretty face, lies (he is an exile? give me a break), financial obscurantism and possibly corruption (his shennanigans with the RNC Credit Card was into the hundreds of thousands).
Luckily, he will not get elected. If a republican wins it will be Bush.
Unluckily he is young enough to do another run after the 8 years of whomever wins.
With any luck I will be dead in 10 years and not have to witness a potential win by this fake.
15
Yes, Marco Rubio may currently be out of position, but let's look back at 2007/2008 when we had a young senator from Illinois who was going again the establishment. Campaigns are long, drawn-out affairs and positioning can change.
1
Barack Obama is a freak of nature, lightning in a bottle.
Rubio is a lickspittle rent boy for the 1%, AIPAC and the perpetual war faction.
Rubio is a lickspittle rent boy for the 1%, AIPAC and the perpetual war faction.
28
Please don't compare Rubio to Obama there is no comparison period. Rubio conga touch Obama when it comes to intellect, integrity etc.etc.etc.
6
The article calls it the 'invisible primary' in reference to the courtship and wooing of campaign contributions from donors, particularly the millionaire and billionaire donors who ultimately control the nomination by deciding who is a viable candidate. Perhaps we can end the hypocrisy of American democracy and change the Constitution from 'one person, one vote' to the way it is now - 'one dollar, one vote'. This is of course no less true of Congressional races nor is it different at the state level, except that the elected state officials can be bought more cheaply. Rubio's skills as a campaigner, and his ideas, may be very good, but if he can't sell himself properly to the big donors he'll never get a chance to sell himself to voters. The big-money people did not get wealthy by making bad investments, they always extract a high return on their investments... we should all wonder what the ROI is on a candidate. One this is certain, whatever the eventual candidates and the election's outcome - we have the best democracy money can buy.
15
Well your right about the influenece of Money in our election process, too bad it is not money well spent, we sure have gotten stuck with some real lemons lately.
He may be a great communicator BUT he is out of touch!! I hope Latinos don't get drawn into his charm just because he knows how to speak Spanish. Latin Americans - don't be fooled!
6
If this is communication, I'd like to expose him to one semester with my senior high school teacher in suburban Boston, Massachusetts. He couldn't pass any of her tests.
1
Great communicator? Please. This dude is just an opportunist looking to leverage what share of electorate he can hustle into a VP slot or a cabinet position should a Republican.
23
for Pete's sake, give the man a chance! He will capture the Latino vote, even if he needs to sip water during a speech. He is Honest, smart, and very proud of America. That's a pretty good start!
Great communicator? What about his reaching off camera for the water bottle while giving the Republican reply to Obama's national address? Didn't look so presidential then, did he?
When Rubio gave a Senate speech and said the US has the
duty to support Israel "unconditionally," I almost fell out of my chair.
To assume that the interests of Israel and the US are identical
and whatever is good for Israel is also good for the US is idiotic
and dangerous.
Not only is the guy obviously slavishly appealing to the big-money pro-Likud
single-issue Jewish donors like Sheldon Adelson (so is Bush), but he is also a lightweight. Listen to him, and all you hear are well rehearsed, simplistic campaign sound bites. Not much different than the way a well rehearsed George W. Bush sounded when he was a presidential candidate, just a little slicker.
But, not to worry. The guy has very little chance of becoming the
GOP nominee. Although, he does have a good chance of becoming
the VP nominee because he might help the GOP win Florida, unless
fellow Floridian Jeb Bush wins the nomination.
duty to support Israel "unconditionally," I almost fell out of my chair.
To assume that the interests of Israel and the US are identical
and whatever is good for Israel is also good for the US is idiotic
and dangerous.
Not only is the guy obviously slavishly appealing to the big-money pro-Likud
single-issue Jewish donors like Sheldon Adelson (so is Bush), but he is also a lightweight. Listen to him, and all you hear are well rehearsed, simplistic campaign sound bites. Not much different than the way a well rehearsed George W. Bush sounded when he was a presidential candidate, just a little slicker.
But, not to worry. The guy has very little chance of becoming the
GOP nominee. Although, he does have a good chance of becoming
the VP nominee because he might help the GOP win Florida, unless
fellow Floridian Jeb Bush wins the nomination.
12
Rubio's bid is all window dressing. Jeb and Marco made a deal a couple of years ago for both to run in 2016 which would give Rubio's eventual selection by Jeb to be his running mate a smidgen of credibility. Rubio is not a serious candidate for president and will throw his support behind Jeb after a few primary losses. The party establishment and the money interests have already ordained Jeb as the next nominee and there's nothing the radical base can do about it. The rest of the republican clown car will split the radical vote and fall by the wayside one by one as the money dries up. The goal is to have the Bush/Rubio ticket peel off enough Hispanics, hopefully 5+ percent or so, to make the difference in the general.
9
Not a likely ticket since both are from Florida.
5
The split geography thingy is a thing of the past. Did Mitt win MA last time? Did Gore win TN? You also have to add to the calculation that it would most probably guarantee Florida to the Bush/Rubio ticket, a must have state. A few percentage points of the overall Hispanic vote from dem to repub is a much more potent force than some kind of ticket based on geography.
I missed the memo! When did we abolish 12th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution?
Unlike Jack Kennedy who had Joe Kennedy or the two Pres. Bush's, Rubio does not have any family political expertise, or a natural ethnic constiuency (Irish or WASP). Moreover he hales from a favored minority, Cuban, that has lorded over less favored Hispanics as if being here (or Canada) made US citizenship a birthright.
9
well so what, Jack? We don't have any rich heritage to draw from either. Does that mean we can't have good leadership skills or solid answers to grave problems that face us? What did Jack Kennedy accomplish for us? or Teddy for that matter. C'mon quit pickin on this kid.
This is jockeying for the VP slot and nothing more. The Republican clown car will potentially give him a few wins (remember, Herman Cain was the front runner at one point last cycle) but in the end, he's not crazy enough for the Republican primary voters and too crazy/inexperienced for the general election voters.
11
His position on immigration repels more voters than it attracts, and he has nothing else to offer.
The result? He will be the first announced candidate to drop out of the race on the GOP side.
The result? He will be the first announced candidate to drop out of the race on the GOP side.
5
Marco Rubio seems 'likeable enough' to steal a previously-used phrase, but when he flip-flopped on global warming, that screamed 'soul-less panderer' to me, and erased all of his youthful charm. And to think that his own state is likely to be the first underwater.
12
He also couldn't say if he believed in evolution I think.
1
Seems to me he has a 50% chance of being the nominee.
I am betting he is most people's "second choice" of those who want to win 2016. Caron, and all the others will be gone long after Rubio is still there and the "Bush haters" will flock to him.
If Jeb fails to be the nominee, I think it will be Rubio.
If Jeb gets the nomination, the VP choice will be Kasich in Ohio or Rubio.
I am betting he is most people's "second choice" of those who want to win 2016. Caron, and all the others will be gone long after Rubio is still there and the "Bush haters" will flock to him.
If Jeb fails to be the nominee, I think it will be Rubio.
If Jeb gets the nomination, the VP choice will be Kasich in Ohio or Rubio.
Jeb Bush can't choose Rubio as his VP unless one of them changes his residence, because the Constitution prohibits a president & vice president from the same state. Remember, after George W Bush picked Cheney as his running mate in 2000, Cheney had to hastily relocate back to Wyoming, which he had moved out of for the convenience of setting up as a Texas-based oil executive.
4
President and VP can be from the same state. See: http://www.snopes.com/history/american/vicepresident.asp
Rubio needs to mature, and actually develop a perspective that's better than "not-Obama".
His shrill tone on Cuba is a perfect illustration of his short-sighted and reactionary view on things.
Mr. Rubio, if we can trade with China, Cuba should be in the tent as well. Arguing that a 50 year-old policy that only cemented the Casto's grip on the country is the way to go reeks of immaturity.
His shrill tone on Cuba is a perfect illustration of his short-sighted and reactionary view on things.
Mr. Rubio, if we can trade with China, Cuba should be in the tent as well. Arguing that a 50 year-old policy that only cemented the Casto's grip on the country is the way to go reeks of immaturity.
61
The Cuban (and he is NOT an exile from Cuba) response shows (1) lack of critical thinking and (2) amazing pandering.
The embargo never worked. Yet, people like him insist on keeping something that has visibly not worked in over half a century out of a gut feeling.
These are the same principles that will drag us to a useless, deadly, costly war. Oops! Bush anyone?
The embargo never worked. Yet, people like him insist on keeping something that has visibly not worked in over half a century out of a gut feeling.
These are the same principles that will drag us to a useless, deadly, costly war. Oops! Bush anyone?
10
In addition to trading with China, we trade with Saudi Arabia governed by Sharia law.
2
I cannot for the life of me understand why people continue to insist Rubio is "talented," or "serious," or whatever compliment they throw his way.
I've had the opportunity to see Rubio in action twice - he was a guest speaker at two business-related events I attended that had nothing to do with politics (though his speech was littered with political talking points). Both times I came away amazed at how shallow he came across. He spoke only in platitudes, and it was painfully clear that whatever points he was making where completely arrived at through ideological or political considerations, rather than by consideration or analysis of the evidence (the topics were, broadly speaking, technology and global trade).
My impression of him is not (I think) colored by political blinders - though I currently lean Democratic, I've always been open to Republican policies. Rubio is, in my opinion, an empty suit. That the political and media establishment view him otherwise says a lot about the establishment.
I've had the opportunity to see Rubio in action twice - he was a guest speaker at two business-related events I attended that had nothing to do with politics (though his speech was littered with political talking points). Both times I came away amazed at how shallow he came across. He spoke only in platitudes, and it was painfully clear that whatever points he was making where completely arrived at through ideological or political considerations, rather than by consideration or analysis of the evidence (the topics were, broadly speaking, technology and global trade).
My impression of him is not (I think) colored by political blinders - though I currently lean Democratic, I've always been open to Republican policies. Rubio is, in my opinion, an empty suit. That the political and media establishment view him otherwise says a lot about the establishment.
97
"He spoke only in platitudes"....
Did Rubio say, "Yes, We Can" ?
Did Rubio say, "Yes, We Can" ?
That's a fairly good point, it'd be foolish to pretend that the Obama candidacy in 08 didn't contain platitudes either.
However, it also contained at least two very distinct policy promises: ending the war in Iraq, and reforming the American health-care system. You may have agreed or disagreed with either stance, but at least you know what you were getting.
Rubio, in the political arena, speaks in the abstract about "prosperity" and "strength," without putting any meat behind the words. Much like what I witnessed when I saw him speak. And he's already proven himself to be the opposite of a profile in courage, when he backtracked on his immigration plan after his party reacted strongly against it.
So I'll pass on Rubio, thank you very much. My guess is he won't get much traction anyway (and who knows - he may know that, and be angling for a VP pick).
However, it also contained at least two very distinct policy promises: ending the war in Iraq, and reforming the American health-care system. You may have agreed or disagreed with either stance, but at least you know what you were getting.
Rubio, in the political arena, speaks in the abstract about "prosperity" and "strength," without putting any meat behind the words. Much like what I witnessed when I saw him speak. And he's already proven himself to be the opposite of a profile in courage, when he backtracked on his immigration plan after his party reacted strongly against it.
So I'll pass on Rubio, thank you very much. My guess is he won't get much traction anyway (and who knows - he may know that, and be angling for a VP pick).
19
Yes We Can is not a platitude, deep thinker, it's a cheer.
6
"Mr. Rubio has yet to prove himself an exceptional candidate."
He hasn't even proven himself an exceptional senator. There's no there there. He's not about public service - he's about power, prestige, money, playing the game because to him politics is a game. In other words, he's all about himself.
Yet he's probably smart enough - only probably - to know he doesn't have a chance at the nomination. He's plainly a positioner - he's all about being on the right side, no matter how often the right side changes. He positions himself on issues to either claim credit or for a quick getaway. And he's positioning himself in the campaign too - either to present himself as vice-presidential material or for the 2020, 2024, 2028, 2031 ad nauseam campaigns.
I guess he figures by then he'll look and sound grown up enough to be considered viable - I'm sure he's thinking, "Hey, if GW could do it, so can I." It says something about the quality of Republicans these days that he's probably the most likeable of them.
He hasn't even proven himself an exceptional senator. There's no there there. He's not about public service - he's about power, prestige, money, playing the game because to him politics is a game. In other words, he's all about himself.
Yet he's probably smart enough - only probably - to know he doesn't have a chance at the nomination. He's plainly a positioner - he's all about being on the right side, no matter how often the right side changes. He positions himself on issues to either claim credit or for a quick getaway. And he's positioning himself in the campaign too - either to present himself as vice-presidential material or for the 2020, 2024, 2028, 2031 ad nauseam campaigns.
I guess he figures by then he'll look and sound grown up enough to be considered viable - I'm sure he's thinking, "Hey, if GW could do it, so can I." It says something about the quality of Republicans these days that he's probably the most likeable of them.
20
I hate to say this, but Mr. Rubio reminds me of a kid in elementary school that was constantly getting beat up. Not exactly a brilliant resume point for the Leader of the Free World.
I just read Things You Might Not Know and he sounds about as varied and interesting as a bowl of Quaker Oats. It makes me question what type of world experience he might bring to the office of the President.
I just read Things You Might Not Know and he sounds about as varied and interesting as a bowl of Quaker Oats. It makes me question what type of world experience he might bring to the office of the President.
6
Rubio was House Speaker of Florida, and has much more experience than did community organizer and left wing zealot, the failure, Barack Obama.
1
It's nice that he is a great communicator, but what kind of actual experience does he have? The phrase "foreign policy" can't even be found in in Nate Cohn's overview, the name of which - First Draft - also applies to Rubio's candidacy.
19
Sounds like you're describing Barack Obama 8 years ago.
4
You caught my attention there for a moment - I misread your headline to read "Out of Poison", a state which would be unusual for Marco Rubio when it comes to other Republican contenders........
1
A Rubio candidacy may be more realistic than a Trump run or a Huckabee Hail Mary. But such weak candidates make a mockery of the foundation of American democracy.
50
After the spectacular failure of Barack Obama, it is understandable if Rubio's lack of experience is an issue. But Rubio has had far more relevant experience than did Obama.
2
Re-elected twice and presiding over one of the biggest economic turnarounds in decades. Over six million jobs created after starting with an 800,000 a month jobs deficit. Of course, I wouldn't expect anyone that voted for GWB, twice, to think that BO was anything but a success because of an apparent failure to even know what success is.
3
Yeah, Hillary is much better. Her record is stellar. Who are the other Dems, by the way? It's weak to only have one candidate than the average American remotely recognizes.
When Pierce Brosnan finally got to portray James Bond, he recognized that it was a good thing he'd not secured the role earlier in his career, when he had first aspired to play the iconic British secret agent. The passage of time had given him added maturity and gravitas. Marco Rubio's timing is off. It's not his time yet, and if he botches this foray badly, he may never get the chance to audition again for the part.
10
Oh, good. Let Rubio botch!
1
Ya, Rubio is such a great communicator, most remembered for the big gulp with the accompanying shifty-eyed, deer in headlights look. Great for dealing with world leaders, yes? No. I can't remember anything he has ever said that wasn't dished up to him by the republican mob bosses ... er talking points provided by special interest groups.
He has no workable plan, has made no mark in the Senate. But I guess that's all that's required of him to make him and others among the republican 'leadership' think it's time to run for president.
Yeah, Rubio will have a hard time of it, unless the colorless, mind-numbing genetically-compromised Jeb falters. Or unless Walker, the whistling skull, falters. Or unless the brain guy falters, or the donald falters. Rand has already faltered, but I guess he could do more damage to himself, if we're patient. Where's Newt and the Nine-Nine-Nine guy just to round out the laff-riot?
What a ringing confidence-building load of silliness. The republicans are soon going to have to borrow one of Mitt's stretch caddies for their clown car. Unless they want to strap Rand Paul, with his tongue hanging out, to the top. And then do a Thelma and Louise, please.
He has no workable plan, has made no mark in the Senate. But I guess that's all that's required of him to make him and others among the republican 'leadership' think it's time to run for president.
Yeah, Rubio will have a hard time of it, unless the colorless, mind-numbing genetically-compromised Jeb falters. Or unless Walker, the whistling skull, falters. Or unless the brain guy falters, or the donald falters. Rand has already faltered, but I guess he could do more damage to himself, if we're patient. Where's Newt and the Nine-Nine-Nine guy just to round out the laff-riot?
What a ringing confidence-building load of silliness. The republicans are soon going to have to borrow one of Mitt's stretch caddies for their clown car. Unless they want to strap Rand Paul, with his tongue hanging out, to the top. And then do a Thelma and Louise, please.
134
Well said. Watching the Repubs this election cycle make foolish, outlandish, childish, uneducated, unrealistic claims and statements will keep me tided over until the Season II of True Detective comes out. I would disagree with one statement you make, GeorgeDeitz. It's not so much a "confidence-building load of silliness" as it is a "boat-load of inane buffoonery."
6
"Clown car" may have aptly described the GOP nominees in 2012, but you are very wrong about 2016, there are GOP political superstars running this time around.
Yes superstars. Like MilleVanilly.
3
I will never forget his horrible rebuttal performance involving the water bottle. This is not a man ready for the highest office in the land. This is not even a man ready for the highest office of a small corporation. He's just not a leader.
57
Admittedly I have not sat through a whole Rubio speech since the ill-fated response to the State of the Union a few years back, but the clips I have seen are not impressive. Where does he get the reputation as a great communicator?
58
same place Ronnie did. I never understood that either.
4
John, he's not!! This is just some narrative one particular national journalist has undeservedly attached to Rubio and the others are repeating the nonsense. Unbelievable, the national media are bunch of gullible imbeciles. Voters, you're on your own... these journalists are no better than Faux parroting the GOP talking points.
5
The Upshot link is to Fox News which called him "the best communicator in politics".
2
Rubio is the “best communicator” of all the Republican candidates for President? The same Rubio who gave the Republican response to Obama's State of the Union address - the one with the unplanned "water break" and the look that he was going to faint from stress? That Rubio?
God help us.
God help us.
100
Simply put, Rubio lacks gravitas. He comes off like a kid elected to class president of his high school who believes this naturally imbues him with authority and power, and he's gonna use it. But when put to the test, like in his hilariously embarrassing response to Obama's State of the Union speech, his lack of experience and self confidence was obviously apparent. Not exactly leadership material. Part of this is not his fault - he's young, and I hate to say it, he's on the short side. If he plays his cards right, he can run for president in 20 years, and running now will only give him exposure, which might be his goal. On the issue of policy, whether he'd be good for the country in 20 years is entirely another matter. Certainly, like pretty much all the GOP candidates, or would -be candidates, should he win in 2016, it would be a disaster...
65
Apart from the facts that he has tried to have one foot in the Tea Party and another in the GOP establishment thus alienating large swaths of both, that he is not the smart bulb the conservative media has tried to make him to be, and that he has no appeal to Hispanics in spite of his Spanish name, the guy is simply a Neanderthal when it comes to public policy. Lastly, that he should think that he has any chance of prevailing for the GOP nomination not to mention a National election speaks volumes about his lack of analytical thinking and over abundance of delusional hubris.
80
I concur. I remember when he became State Senate President and talked about moving Florida to number one in the country in education. He should have tried to move the state from the dregs to the middle of the pack. He is a lightweight with plenty of bombast.
44
Talented at what? Kochnomics?
76
One of the great drawbacks of President Obama's two terms has been his lack of experience in federal government and his lack of a strong network in Congress.
I won't vote for another 1 term inexperienced senator who looks and sounds good and who brings diversity to the previously all male all white presidency.
Experience and a record of accomplishment matters.
I won't vote for another 1 term inexperienced senator who looks and sounds good and who brings diversity to the previously all male all white presidency.
Experience and a record of accomplishment matters.
19
Oh yea, you left out his biggest drawback (which he had no control over). He's black and the Republicans refusal to work with President Obama, thereby trying to delegitimize his presidency from day one has been quite evident these past six years. So you see no amount of years in the Senate would have made a difference. Perhaps for Mr. Rubio, but not President Obama. The GOP has conducted themselves nothing short of the devil! Tell the truth!
I can't wait for President Obama's memior to be written on his presidency. I pray he exposes them all!
I can't wait for President Obama's memior to be written on his presidency. I pray he exposes them all!
19
His tax plan is atrocious, but there is no question he showed real (initial) courage on immigration reform. Except when the going got tough, he split. He put zero public pressure on House Republicans to pass either the Senate bill or their own bill and go to conference committee. He thinks he is Barack Obama '07; he may soon learn he is Tim Pawlenty '11. Rubio thinks he is talented enough to finesse his immigration walkback/capitulation; he's not. And he's going to hear about it from Scott Walker and Ted Cruz.
He gives a great speech about lifting Americans to a better, more secure tomorrow, yet then you look at his tax plan, in particular the modifications he made to Senator Lee's more credible plan. Also, is he and his team willing to do to Jeb Bush what it did to Charlie Crist? Rubio has to know enough to know what happens when a Bush is threatened in a presidential primary.
Still, he can run a good, competent campaign and position himself well for 2020 when the country's fatigue with Democratic presidents might be at modern-era high. It's not clear, however, after relinquishing his senate seat that he can remain relevant long enough to last until 2019. Rubio can do what Nixon did for Goldwater in '64 for Walker or Bush and that may help. Unless Paul Ryan decides 2020 is his cycle to run, Rubio has time on his side, but, assuming he fails to win the 2016 nomination, he'll have to keep himself in the conversation, especially with his remaining elite GOP supporters.
He gives a great speech about lifting Americans to a better, more secure tomorrow, yet then you look at his tax plan, in particular the modifications he made to Senator Lee's more credible plan. Also, is he and his team willing to do to Jeb Bush what it did to Charlie Crist? Rubio has to know enough to know what happens when a Bush is threatened in a presidential primary.
Still, he can run a good, competent campaign and position himself well for 2020 when the country's fatigue with Democratic presidents might be at modern-era high. It's not clear, however, after relinquishing his senate seat that he can remain relevant long enough to last until 2019. Rubio can do what Nixon did for Goldwater in '64 for Walker or Bush and that may help. Unless Paul Ryan decides 2020 is his cycle to run, Rubio has time on his side, but, assuming he fails to win the 2016 nomination, he'll have to keep himself in the conversation, especially with his remaining elite GOP supporters.
11
Yes. Yes. Yes. The best news is that he won't be my Senator much longer.
4
He'll never be president. He lacks courage and he's not a leader. He reminds me of a person vying for a position well over his pay grade. He's definitely not an intellect, and he comes across like a kid.
1