Lack of experience: Edwards biggest friend or foe?

[feckerman]

A really interesting question has been raised in my mind. I honestly do not know whether Edwards lack of public experience (political or military) will hurt or help him.

My views:
Help: Clearly, the pukes have far less to mine and toss at him. He voted for this, or he said that...His political life has been relatively un-eventful. (not to say his life as a trial lawyer won't hurt him) He also can argue he is someone "fresh and new."

Hurt: At the same time, the argument that "this guy does not have enough experience to be president in these times" could be powerful.

What do people think?

[mlawson]

1. It won't hurt him, unless the phrase becomes a "truism".

And KKRove & Co will repeat it over and over and over. To the extent that voters learn the phrase and associate it with Edwards, it could do some damage. But if they then realize that he has as much political experience as Lincoln did, and Ronnie, it will fade in its significance. Does anyone think that Edwards lacks knowledge of the Constitution, especially as it refers to presidential powers?? If he can come from nowhere and win the nomination, will people think he lacks political savvy??? I doubt it.

Basically, it will be one of the very few things the reps can throw at him, but it won't be enough, IMO.

[spooky3]

2. I think he can counter the -'s with a good VP

If he selects a VP who has the experience that critics want JE to have, this will be helpful.

Cheney has done us a favor in one way--people now understand that the VP can have a lot of influence. So if JE is the nominee, and I know there are a LOT of states yet to vote, I hope he'll pick a good VP.

[LSdemocrat]

3. Hurt him, BUT

his lack of experience also mean he hasn't yet been sucked in by the Washington mindset, which would help him in a general election.

But, taken overall, a bit more of a disadvantage that advantage.

[paulk]

4. It hurts him

at least with me. Although John Edwards is in my top three, it's one of the primary reasons I don't support him for the top spot.