The Early Field of Democratic Presidential Candidates

[MineralMan]

is going to make some others think twice about tossing their own hat into the ring, I think. While there's still room for a major name to step in, the space for that is rapidly filling in. There are still others planning to join the club, though.

Is there room for a non-Democrat to join the current, very talented group of contenders? I don't think so. I think that door has only a very tiny crack in it that might allow that to happen. The first step would need to be declaring membership in the Democratic Party, something that is very difficult to do for some. There is a distinct "once bitten; twice shy" element in play here.

Is there room for a former Democratic Vice President to add his name to the list? Yes, there is. In fact, such a move right now would probably shift most of the current presidential hopefuls into becoming VP hopefuls. Will it happen? Maybe, but also maybe not. Joe Biden is a reluctant candidate, I think - a maybe candidate. He shouldn't wait much longer, though, if he intends to run.

[dalton99a]

1. I suspect he will decline

[pangaia]

2. I hope he does, just for his own sake.....

He's been through enoough, in MY opinion, of corse...

[MineralMan]

3. I think so, too.

I believe he will not put himself through that again. Biden, I mean.

Bernie? Who can say? I have no idea.

[WeekiWater]

4. With the current field...

I think the only new arguments that can be made by an entrant are electability or organizational(Being able to get things done). For the more conservative side of the equation we have Klobuchar, and she might even be to the left of Biden. The more progressive wing has Warren, Harris, Gillibrand, etc.

Ideologically we have reached overlap land. Now it's just about who can win.

[MineralMan]

5. The only issue I see is the lack of a nationally known name.

I mean, we all know those people here on DU, but we're not the actual audience for this.

There's time, still, for someone to rise to the top in recognition, of course. That's the challenge they all have right now, though.