Smart Money Still on Govs for GOP Nod in 2016

[Valin]

Real Clear Politics:

Tom Bevan

7/1/13

 

There's been much hype lately surrounding three enterprising young Republicans in the Senate, and rightfully so. Rand Paul, Marco Rubio, and Ted Cruz are dynamic personalities who've thrust their way into the public debate in recent months on issues ranging from drones to gun control to immigration.

All three appear to harbor aspirations for higher office, and are already in the conversation as potential presidential contenders in 2016. It would be foolish to count them out.

 

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Heres why: Of the 12 competitive presidential primaries conducted in the post-World War II era, only three incumbent senators have managed to win the Republican nomination (Barry Goldwater, Bob Dole, and John McCain). None of them came close to winning.

Over the same period, Republicans have turned to a war hero (Dwight D. Eisenhower), and to Richard Nixon, Eisenhowers two-term vice president. They each won twice.

 

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So the smart money for the Republican nomination remains on the large crop of GOP governors around the country, most of who are working diligently, quietly and probably far more effectively, building their resumes for higher office.

Many of them, including Chris Christie, Scott Walker, Susana Martinez, and Bobby Jindal, are already part of the 2016 conversation. Dont be surprised to see others whove not yet been mentioned -- such as John Kasich, Sam Brownback and Mike Pence -- begin to gain notice as well.

 

 

 

 

 

We should also mention a certain governor of Texas. He could very well be staking out a strong Pro-Life position, and challenging a former PA. Senator as the darling of the Social Conservatives.