Brownstein, LAT: A Two-Man Race Too Late for No. 2?

[DeepModem Mom]

NEWS ANALYSIS
A Two-Man Race Too Late for No. 2?
Edwards might have his wish for a one-on-one contest, but Kerry may already be out of reach. The challenger faces a tough Super Tuesday.

By Ronald Brownstein, Times Staff Writer


WASHINGTON — With his strong showing in Wisconsin, John Edwards has finally achieved what he has sought since the Iowa caucuses: a two-man race with front-runner John F. Kerry. But Edwards may have found his lane when Kerry is too near the finish line to catch.

Edwards' surprisingly close second-place finish on Tuesday guarantees he can continue his campaign at least through March 2, when 10 states — including California, New York and Ohio — will vote.

The Wisconsin results showed again that in states where Edwards has time to become known, he attracts moderates, independents and voters most concerned about the economy. And the North Carolina senator could benefit from increased media attention if Howard Dean quits the race after his distant third-place finish in Wisconsin.

But Edwards still must overcome enormous obstacles to seriously challenge Kerry who, after all, won Wisconsin and now has 15 victories in the 17 nominating contests so far.

http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/2004/la-na-assess18feb18,1,1497087.story?coll=la-home-headlines