Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings Week #23: McCain and Clinton remain on top and Thompson to join the 1st tier.

Here are this week's rankings.

Republicans:

1st: John McCain (steady) We thought we might have to switch Rudy and Mitt with McCain, but his numbers from ARG and Fred Thompson's announcement allowed McCain a 3rd week on top. If Romney doesn't fall from Thompson's announcement or Rudy gets better numbers in Iowa and NH we may have switch the 1st spot around.

2nd: Mitt Romney (steady) Romney still remains #1 in early states in many polls and his fundraising and publicity is skyrocketing. If Thompson hadn't of made his announcement this week we would have ranked him #1.

3rd Tied: Rudolph Giuliani (falling) this is the lowest position for Rudy since we included him in rankings. Rudy remains on top nationally, barely, but he is in 3rd in most early states. Rudy may be hurt by these early losses.

3rd Tied: Fred Thompson (rising) His announcement this week put him in a tie for 3rd, but not strong enough to make #1 or 2. Thompson hasn't even campaigned yet and he has double digit poll numbers.

5th: Newt Gingrich (falling) Gingrich had begun to fall rapidly with Mitt's surge, and Thompson's announcement. He still looks like a candidate though so dont count him out.

Democrats:

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) Hillary still remains well ahead of her challengers nationally, but remains weak in Iowa, NH, and South Carolina.

She still remains barely #1 in NH and SC but trails by 13 points in Iowa and is in 3rd place. She is certainly no longer the nominee-to be.

2nd Tied: Barack Obama (falling) Obama still remains in the 20's nationally, but is falling apart in early states. He is in 2nd or 3rd in all of them and isn't carrying a one.

2nd Tied: John Edwards (rising) Polls in Iowa and NH are improving for Edwards and that earns him a tie for #2. Edwards now is in 2nd in NH and well ahead in Iowa.

4th: Bill Richardson (rising) New national polls show Richardson back on top of the 2nd tier. An ARG Iowa poll had him almost in the double digits. Could a spark be happening?

5th: Joe Biden (steady) Well his campaign still remains dead and hasn't recovered. Maybe next week's debate he can show he deserves to be in the 1st tier.

Decision 2008: Fred Thompson to announce.

Former Tennessee U.S. Senator and Law and Order star Fred Thompson is set to file for a "testing the water" committee for a presidential bid in 2008. He is set to appear in several fundraisiers soon and this summer he is expected to officially join the race. Thompson draws alot of media buzz, because of his surprising double digit pollings. Some national and state poll put him 1st 2nd or even thrid but averages about 4th in polls and he hasn't even campaigned yet. Fred Thompson's candidacy is most likely going to hurt the campaigns of Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney. Giuliani has fallen 20-30 points in polls since Thompson announced he was thinking about running and Thompson's fame and love among conservatives may hurt conservative star Mitt Romney. Thompson's polls in Iowa and NH, states where Mitt is putting all his marbles , hurt his chances. The only campaign that benefits from Thompson's is John McCain's. Since his announcement he ahs moved to the top of state polls and near the top of national polls. It is for sure though that when Thompson does run he will man this 3-man stage a 4-man stage and instantly win a spot among the top tier. Until then we will just have to wait in see what the actor does.

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings #22. Mitt's surge.

This week there is a major shake-up in rankings. Here's your end of the month rankings.

1st: John McCain (falling) McCain remains slightly ahead for his remaining strong numbers in Iowa, NH, and SC. His fundraising is short and his polls are falling so we should look for a new candidate in this #1 slot next week.

2nd Tied: Mitt Romney (rising) Rising public support and new poll numbers showing him ahead in Iowa, and NH and thrusted Romney to the #2 spot. His growing popularity may help his poor national numbers, but with Gingrich and Thompson still likely to jump in, look for him to lose the spotlight soon.

2nd Tied: Rudy Giuliani (falling) Giuliani remains ahead in national polls, but his polls in early states remains poor. He has slipped to 3rd in IA, NH and SC. He has yet to campaign in the lareg states where he is strong, like NY, CA and TX. If he could win there he could survive losing those key earl states.

4th: Fred Thompson (steady) His numbers remain in the high single to low doble digit numbers and once he jumps in his numbers could help him win in NH, IA and SC.

5th: Newt Gingrich (steady) Gingrich looks like a candidate now more than ever, with a countdown to the day he will decide to run on his PAC website. Gingrich could really shake up the field if he were to enter and he migth even thrust this race into a 5 man stage.

6th: Mike Huckabee (steady) Huckabee remains the leader of the 2nd tier of candidates with his national polls numbers averageing at 3-4%. Thats still weak but if a darkhorse were to happen he would likely be that darkhorse. Besides Arkansas Governors are known for major comebacks.

7th: Sam Brownback (steady) Up 2 positions since last month. His support in polls has shifted him to the highest position he has been in 3 months since he left the top 5.

8th: Tommy Thompson (steady) Poor national and Iowa polls give Thompson a slip in positions.

9th: Jim Gilmore (steady) Gilmore is too unknown and remains that so he stays about where he always is.

10th: Chuck Hagel (steady) Hagel seems more likely to run as an Independent for president than a republican. His re-election plans still look possible too. I really dont see Hagel as a GOP candidate for president but maybe an Independent candidate.

11th: Ron Paul (steady) Last weeks debate between Rudy and Paul raised his name recognition and put him in the lead among the 3rd tier.

12th: Duncan Hunter (steady) Hunter was strong in the past 2 debates, but he remains a 3rd tier candidate. Polls show he doesn't even register.

13th: Tom Tancredo (steady) Dead last is a whole new low for Tancredo. He is the first to hold that title since Paul jumped in. He remains unpopualr by his immigration remarks. He might not even break 5% in Colorado's primary.

Democrats:

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) She remains ahead nationally and in nearly every state, except for the all important Iowa. Many had hoped she would quit Iowa and concentrate in NH where she leads. Hillary wouldn't hear of it and she will remain in Iowa. Polls there currently show her in 3rd 13 points from the lead.

2nd: Barack Obama (steady) His amazing surge of support that almost dethroned Hillary as frontrunner for the first time in the campaign has ended. He now remains in a distant 2nd nationally and 2nd in most of the early states. He only leads in Illionis his homestate. Obama's fundraising and strong numbers against Republicans, may help his chances though.

3rd: John Edwards (steady) The only thing keeping Edwards alive is that he leads in the first contest of the election season Iowa. If he loses Iowa his campaign will be dead. If he wins in Iowa that surge could help him pull a comeback Kerry move and win NH, and SC.

4th: Bill Richardson (steady) He and Biden are going nowhere so I put him in his old spot of 4th.

5th: Joe Biden (steady) Really I dont know why these other guys are even running. They really dont ahve much of a shot.

6th: Christopher Dodd (steady) He has finally made a pulse in some polls and is leading the 3rd tier.

7th: Dennis Kucinich (steady) About where he was 4 years ago. Kucinich will likely never even break 3% in any state.

8th: Mike Gravel (steady) A solid job at making a name for himself in the debate about a month ago. He was able to get included in some polls now but he fails to even make a 1% rating.

Note: Wesley Clark and Al Sharpton were removed from rankings because they are not likely to run.

Forum postponed 2 weeks.

Many of the candidates invited to our forum have yet to respond, so we will hold off on the forum for 2 weeks. I will set the official date next week. Special Thanks to Steve Adams for his speedy reply.

Decision 2007: Kentucky Primary

Well results have been coming in for about 3 hours now and it appears Governor Fletcher and Former Lt. Governor Steve Beshear have emerged victorious in their primaries by wide margins. Governor Ernie Fletcher who was seen as vulerable primary candidate defeated Fmr. Congressman Anne Northup only 6 months after her November re-election defeat and Businessman Billy Harper. Beshear defeated a crowded field of Democrats by a surprising landslide. He was expected to be neck and neck with Health Care Excutive Bruce Lunsford and Former Lt. Governor Steve Henry. He has nearly doubled their totals and no runoff will be needed. State Treasurer Jonathan Miller's withdrawal from the race probably contributed to Beshear's win tonight. Beshear and Fletcher now are on to fight a very competitive race for the Governor's mansion and no one can say who will win.

Kentucky Primary Governor Unofficial Election Results
Republican
(R)Ernie Fletcher 101,256 50.1%
(R)Anne Northup 73,791 36.5%
(R)Billy Harper 27,084 13.4%

Democratic
(D)Steve Beshear 142,733 40.9%
(D)Bruce Lunsford 74,537 21.4%
(D)Steve Henry 60,860 17.5%
(D)Jody Richards 45,376 13.0%
(D)Gatewood Calbraith 21,350 6.1%
(D)Otis Hensley 3,903 1.1%

In Memory of Anthony A. Nasso 1989-2007

America lost one of its brightest young leaders on May 18th, 2007. On that day Anthony Nasso went home into heaven. He will be extremely missed. Many referred to him by the u4prez site as tony4prez. He was a leading candidate and recieved high ratings. I think he has recieved one of the greatest memorial tributes throughout the country on the internet and we wanted to show our tribute to Anthony's triumphant return to the lord. We ask that all keep his family is their prayers as they endure this death.

Anthony Nasso Memorial Site http://tony4prez.memory-of.com/

Decision 2008: Republicans meet again in South Carolina to debate.

The 10 presidential candidates about 2 weeks after their first debate meet again to discuss the issues and get a little attacks in at each other. Well I have to say Giuliani, McCain and Romney performed well and Huckabee and Hunter led the 2nd tiers. Mayor Giuliani did what he had to do to win and that was show his patriotism and his effectiveness in 9/11. His remarks against Congressman Ron Paul of Texas about how we brought 9/11 upon us. Mayor Giuliani asked that he take back that comment, but the Congressman defended it. Giuliani also peformed better with his abortion questions, because he knew they were coming. He also was able to stand out while McCain and Romney attacked each other. The surprise of the night though had to of been the feud between Romney and McCain. Governor Romney critized Senator McCain for his sponsoring of McCain-Kennedy and McCain-Feingold bills dealing with campaign finances, and Senator McCain critized the governor on how he changes positions on views every time he runs for a different political office. Romney later stated in an interview afterwards that McCain flip-flops too, like on the Bush Tax cuts, but McCain held firm that he satys with his position no matter what he is doing in politics. Politics-Central has to give the win tonight to Mayor Giuliani. He improved much more than last week and even though McCain and Romney feuded quite a bit they both performed well too. No real significany change though. The 1st tiers are still 1st tiers amd the 2nd tiers are still 2nd tiers.

Debate Performance of Candidates out of 10.

Giuliani 8

McCain 7

Romney 7

Huckabee 6

Hunter 6

Gilmore 5

Brownback 3

Tancredo 3

Thompson 3

Paul 1

On to the CNN Debates of June 3rd and 5th between both the Democratic Presidential Candidates and the Republicans.

Decision 2008: Presidential Candidate Forum.

We here at Politics-Central will soon be hosting a presidential candidate forum when we will ask any presidential candidate available, most likely the minor ones to join us in a discussion. This discussion will be held Saturday May, 26th between 6:00-9:00 at night. I will be posting many candidate answers throughout the night and all will be finished by Sunday morning. We will be taking email questions for any of the candidates. This may take up our time for rankings and other posts so after the debate anaylsis of tommorrow GOP FOX news debate we will postpone all posting until the forum. If you would like to ask a question please send it to politics_central_writer@yahoo.com or yop_kio@yahoo.com.

Thanks!

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings #21: McCain on top!

Republicans

1st: John McCain (rising) Polls have shown a huge recovery in polls for the senator and he is now at the front of the pack in our ratings alone for the first time in 7 months. McCain now trails Giuliani by only 2 points nationally leads in IA, NH and SC and probably won last week's debate. Great things have begun to happen for his campaign byt with hsi views on Iraq he could fall again in polls.

2nd: Rudolph Giuliani (falling) A huge loss last week and a 20-30 point dip in polls put Rudy in the #2 spot for the first time in along time. His stance on abortion has also been hurting him can he continue to campaign like this and win. Polls have shown he ahs taken a major hit. Will he recover?

3rd: Fred Thompson (steady) Thompson still remains in the double digits in polls and hasn't even campaigned yet. We could see him shake up the political field once he announces this summer.

4th: Mitt Romney (steady) New Polls show Romney leading in NH, UT, and MI! All of these are early primaries and he could surprise us all with these wins. Romney is also considered ot have won last week's debate.

5th: Newt Gingrich (steady) Gingrich has dropped from double digits, but he know looks like he could run especially we no clear presumptive nominee yet.

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) Hillary continues to fall. but she remains in the lead nationally and leads in most early states excpet for Iowa. She still has to be considered the leader of the pack, hwoever her funsraising loss and debate loss to Obama could hurt her.

2nd: Barack Obama (steady) Obama continues to remain strong but not strong enough to become the frontrunner. Obama doesn't lead in one key early contest and his national support remains behind Hillary 8%-15%. He still has a great fundraising base and celebrity status. His rockstar look ma thrust him into the lead.

3rd: John Edwards (steady) Edwards continues to lead in Iowa and closing in on Hillary and Obama in NH. Nationally his support his weak. but with wins in IA and NH he could surge support the other direction and into his favor.

4th: Joe Biden (steady) Biden finally surpassed Richardson 2 weeks ago after the debate and became the leader of the 2nd-tier. Biden howver he still recovering from his early mistakes.

5th: Bill Richardson (steady) Richardson continues to fall after his poor performance 2 weeks ago at the debate. Can he comeback?

Decision 2008: Presidential Candidate Power Rankings #20.

Here are our end of the month presidential power rankings. Sorry about no getting these to you last week, but because of the work I had I was too busy to post them.

Republicans

Tied 1st: John McCain (rising) Back on top again in Iowa, NH, and South Carolina Polls according to ARG polls. McCain also takes back the lead with his strong performance last night at the debate. New national polls show McCain gaining there as well. I think this one man show has turned back into a two man show and soon to be four.

Tied 1st: Rudolph Giuliani (falling) He falls to 2nd and 3rd in NH, IA, and SC and his nationwide lead has slipped 20 points with a month! He is now within striking distance of being replaced as the frontrunner. Rudy better watch out McCain, Thompson and even Romney are coming on strong.

3rd: Fred Thompson (rising) Thompson remains in 10%-17% in polls and he hasn't even campaigned yet. Imagine how much he could shake up the field if the Thompson machine takes off and he actually runs.

4th: Mitt Romney (rising) New Polls in New Hampshire show Romney tied or barely trailing McCain and his strong perfromace last night could be seen as a poll booster.

5th: Newt Gingrich (steady) His double digit numbers are gone but he could still be a serious threat if he decided to run.

6th: Mike Huckabee (steady) Huckabee showed one of the strongest peformances last night at the debate among 2nd teir candidates. Could he move into the frontrunners tier?

7th: Tommy Thompson (steady) Thompson has moved to become one of the leading candidates among the 2nd tier, but other than that he remains in this postion or lower.

8th: Chuck Hagel (steady) Rumors are about that Hagel wont seek the GOP nomination and that he will run on the Unity'08 ticket. Hagel has yet to state whether or not he will run or not.

9th: Sam Brownback (falling) Brownback had fallen from the top 5 to near the end of the top 10. His campaign is slowly diminishing.

10th: Jim Gilmore (steady) Gilmore hasn't changed much. He claims he is the ultra-conservative of the 10 announced candidates and some say that may put him in this race.

11th: Duncan Hunter (steady) Hunter also performed well in the debate, but he remains near the bottom in most polls and no one really knows who he is.

12th: Tom Tancredo (falling) Tancredo had the worst performance besides Giuliani at the debate and he poorly comes off well to voters with his immigration views. I think he will remain at this spot.

13th: Ron Paul (steady) Paul remains dead last, but he still thinks he will be the next president. I think some one needs to give him a hint. Run as a libertarian thats the only way you will get on the ballot in November!

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (falling) We still have to rate Clinton as the frontrunner since she leads nationally and leads in most key states, however Obama is gaining like wildfire day by day. We could see another at the top of this lost by next month.

2nd: Barack Obama (rising) Obama for the first time ever beat Hillary Clinton, the once presumed nominee in one poll. Rasmussen finds Obama leading Hillary. Obama also has great fundraising base and can really gain a crowd. I wouldn't be surprised if he look the lead in NH and SC within a week or so. Iowa remains Edwards territory though.

3rd: John Edwards (steady) Edwards remains in the lead in Iowa and not to far behind in NH. In SC he is tied with Hillary. Could a strong showing in these states win him the nomination? Edwards seems to be proving many wrong when he continues to lead in Iowa. A win there for Kerry gave him the nomination in 2004 and could give his running mate the same luck.

4th: Joe Biden (steady) Biden has seemed to become the leader of the 2nd tier caniddates as Richardson falters. His once dead campaign might revive.

5th: Bill Richardson (falling) Richardson continues to fall in polls as Biden surpasses him. His poor performance in last weeks debate may also hurt his campaign.

6th: Wesley Clark (falling) Clark doesn't look like he will run anymore so we will continue to rate him down, even though he still has fair poll numbers.

7th: Dennis Kucinich (steady) Remains in his same postion as last month. Kucinich might do better than his 1-2% average in 2004 since he leads most 2nd to 3rd tier candidates.

8th: Christopher Dodd (steady) Dodd did perform well in last week's debate, but that wont be enough to revive his dead from the start campaign.

9th: Mike Gravel (rising) His comic releif act last week won him enough attention to get noticed. Gravel may make it to the 2nd tier.

10th: Al Sharpton (falling) Doubtful that he will even run and no one puts him in polls so we may remove him along with clark next month from our ratings.

More Breaks to continue....

Sorry but I will be having many breaks for awhile until summer. I will likely only post 1 or 2 posts a week my apologies. I am quite busy and can not get back to full time posting until about June 8th.

Decision 2008: 10 GOP Presidential Candidates meet in Reagan Library for their 1st debate.

Last night the crowded republican field of presidential candidates met at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library for their first nationally televised debates. The 3 frontrunners, Giuliani, McCain, and Romney faced the possibilty of making a mistake and blowing their chances while the 2nd and 3rd tier candidates vy for a spot with the big wigs. Political anaylists give the win to Mitt Romney, however John McCain was examined to come off as the most presidential. Both candidates are said to have performed well. McCain faced challenges for his recent remarks and many worried this debate could be the beginnning of the end for him. He however surprised them all and in our opinion stood out the most and was the strongest candidate on the stage. We have to admit Governor Romney had the best and most well thought out answers and we have to give him the win. Frontrunner Mayor Giuliani who is currently falling in polls, performed well under what others had expected. Many rate his performance to that of Ron Paul last night. The Mayor didn't stand out at all with his ideas, he poorly showed his presidential qualities and wavered on his abortion views. He also wavered on many topics and didn't do as well as Romney with covering up his flip flops. The other candidates are probably still unknown to the public and did nothing to improve that status. They will all likely remain in that postion for a long time. Well no real changes though. The 3 frontrunners remain the 3 frontrunners in the race and the 7 others remain just the also-rans.

Our Rankings of Candidates Performances last night: Scale 1-10
1st: Mitt Romney 8 out of 10
2nd: John McCain 7 out of 10
3rd: Mike Huckabee 5 out of 10
4th: Sam Brownback 4 out of 10
5th: Jim Gilmore 3 out of 10
5th: Tommy Thompson 3 out of 10
7th: Duncan Hunter 2 out of 10
7th: Ron Paul 2 out of 10
9th: Tom Tancredo 1 out of 10
10th: Rudy Giuliani 1 out of 10

Decision 2008: Democrats meet in South Carolina for the "First in the Nation" Debate.

Last night the eight announced Democratic Presidential Candidates met at South Carolina States University to exchange views in the first nationally televised debate in this election season. Senators Hillary Clinton, and Barack Obama were expected to be the stars of the debate being the frontrunners. The other candidates though did get their spotlight and really no one got enough time to stand out. Currently online polling and other pollings samples right after the debate show the Barack Obama was the victor, because he stood out the best. However political analyists give the win to Clinton, for her better prepared answers. Politics-Central gives the win to Barack Obama for his way of differing from the candidates to show what the people want. Obama walked into the debate knowing this debate could make or break him, but I dont think either happened. Sen. Clinton however did a very good job of showing how presidential she can be and her readiness for office. Sen. Joe Biden made debate history last night when he gave the shortness answer of "yes". Some have said that was an approiate answer but others say he was unprepared to answer to the question. John Edwards preformed averagely, but not enough to give him a boost. What probably surprised every viwer of the debate was the roughness of Fmr. Alaskan U.S. Senator Mike Gravel. Gravel was yelling at all the candidates and critizing them all. He made Ohio Congressman Dennis Kucinich, who is known for his untamenous at debates, look like a calm debator. He critized Barack Obama and the other top tier candidates the most for not representing the party as top presidential frontrunners. Kucinich however was able to give his Iraq mistake and peace candidate 2 cents which is what his campaign is centered around. Edwards was also able to attack the others on the stage and mainly frontrunner Hillary Clinton for not admitting voting for the War in Iraq was a mistake. I felt that Hillary responded very well, but could have been seen as a flip flopper. Now on to next week's debate which will feature the 10 republicans running for president at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. We will be here to give our anaylsis and who won the debate next week so tune in.

Decision 2008: Presidential Candidate Rankings #19

Were winding down the track to the 2008 presidential election and we will be here day by day to cover the whole story. Here are this week's rankings

Republicans

1st: Rudy Giuliani (falling) Giuliani is currently falling in support since the Fred Thompson announcement. His 30 point lead has evaporated into 5-10 points. The frontrunner since the very beginnings of this campaign might be dethrowned by Thompson, McCain, or even Romney and Gingrich.

2nd: John McCain (rising) McCain is finally getting back on track now within striking distance again of Giuliani. His numbers in key early contests remain strong as well. His poor financial status is the only thing bringing him down as of now, but his belliefs on war and in Iraq may get him into trouble.

3rd: Fred Thompson (rising) Thompson remains strong in alomst every poll. Some have even shown him beating Sen. McCain nationally. His spark since his jump into considering a run for president has yet to falter. Could he make this 2 man show a 3 man show?

4th: Mitt Romney (steady) NH polls are strong for Romney, but everywhere else the man is weak. Currently he only wins in UT and MA. Romney still has money pouring out so he could still get back into the race for the GOP nomination.

5th: Newt Gingrich (steady) With Thompson's entrance and Romney;s slow surge Gingrich's possible candidacy has been ignored. His numbers have slipped below the double digits has he continues to descend out of this race and the 1st tier candidates.

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (falling sharply) Hillary is now in danger of losing her frontrunner status and were only 4 months into this campaign. The once presumptive nominee could be passed in polling samples as early as the end of the month if her drop continues.

2nd: Barack Obama (rising) Obama is on the rise and is now within single digits of Hillary Clinton. He could very well become the frontrunner soon. His numbers everywhere are on the rise and his money is outstanding. An African American right now has one of the best chances at being elected president next fall.

3rd: John Edwards (steady) Edwards's bounce is gone and his lead in Iowa will soon join it. His campaign is bit by bit slowing down. He still holds on to his top tier status.

4th: Joe Biden (steady) Biden continues to remain very weak in this campaign drawing very little media attention to himself.

5th: Bill Richardson (steady) His little trip to Asia didnt' draw near the attention he intended. Really I think this campaign id for the Vice Presidency for him.

History Day!

The reason I haven't been posting for quite awhile is that I have been spending my nights working on my project for History Day. This Monday I am competiting in the State Competition. I will still likely briefly posting until Monday when I will return to posting at regular times about 3 times a week.

Decision 2007 and 2008: Congressional and State Election News.

Stepping away from the Presidential today ro examine other races. Fmr. Senator and speculated LA Gubernatorial Candidate John Breaux decided that he will not be a candidate for governor in 2007. With Sen. Breaux and Governor Blanco out, the State Democratic Party will be having a hard time finding a strong enough replacement to take on Congressman Bobby Jindal in the Fall. Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu is expected to run for Governor as well, and may be the party's last chance at holding on to the Governor's Mansion. Former Football star and 2006 GOP Candidate for Penn. Governor, Lynn Swann is considering a bid for congressin 2008. Swann stated he may make a campaign to represent his district in the U.S. House chamber. Swann told the AP, "I'm still collecting information." Swann also stated, " People are still talking to me about it." Swann lost the Governor's race to incumbant Ed rendell 60% -40%. In the Kentucky Gubernatorial race in 2007, Ernie Fletcher is the race for hsi political survival. New SurveyUSA polls show Fletcher narrowly leading his primary challengers Fmr. Congressman Anne Norhup and Businessman Billy Harper 40%-31%-16%. The Democratic side has polling at Henry 26% Beshear 15%, Richards 13%, Miller 8%, Lunsford 7%, Galbraith 6%, Hensley 2%. Anyone of the 6 top candidates could face off against Fletcher or Northup in the Fall. North Carolina U.S. Senate Polls show Sen. Elizabeth Dole in danger of being defeated in her re-election bid. Possible challenger Rep. Brad Miller is polling 33% to her 44%. She is below the 50% safety mark, and that could be her undoing. Sen. John Warner of Virgina, isn't now looking like he will retire in 2008, making a poor effort to fundraise. Would this pave the way for Fmr. Governor Mark Warner to take his seat for the democrats. New Minnesota polls show Sen. Norm Coleman curing to an easy re-election, but experts predicted a close race? Coleman leads both of his Democratic Challengers, Comedian Al Franken 57%-35%, and Mike Ciresi 57%-34%. If a Democrat who is stong in Minnesota doesn't step up the GOP will hold on to this seat. Thats it for this update.

Governor Jon Corzine

Please be in Prayer for the full recovery of New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine. Gov. Corzine was involved in a automoble crash thursday that left him in critical but stable condition. Everyone here at Politics-Central hopes for a speedy and full recovery for the governor.

Happy Easter!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just wanted to wish everyone a happy resurrection Sunday! Worship Christ's triumph over deathfor us his people!

Decision 2008: Rudolph Giuliani

Here is another "candidate of the week" biography. Today is "America's Mayor" Rudolph (Rudy) Giuliani.

Giuliani was born in Brooklyn, New York to a Middle class family on May 28th, 1944. He attended a Local Catholic school in Long Island, New York whe n he was 7. He attended Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School and graduated in 1961. He graduated from Manhattan College in 1965 and graduated form NYU's school of Law in 1968 with a Juris Doctorite degree.
He became a law clerk and many saw him becoming a Justice of the Supreme Court one day. In 1970 he joined the office of U.S. Attorney. He became a full executive U.S. Attorney in 1973. After he was appointed Associate Deputy Attorney General of the United States and Chief of Staff to the Deputy Attorney General. Giuliani left Washington and returned to New York and from 1977-1981, Giuliani joined Patterson, Belknap, Webb, and Tyler law firm. In 1981 he was appointed Associate Attorney General of the United States making him the 3rd highest Ranking official in the Justice Department. He oversaw federal law cases around the country. In 1983 He became a U.S. Attorney for Southern District of New York. That psotion gave him prominence in the world of Law and in the State of New York. There he became one of the biggest fedral prosectutors indicted the biggest criminals on the East Coast. In 1989 he resigned as a U.S. Attorney and joined the White & Case Law Firm. In 1990 he joined Anderson Kill Olick & Oschinsky. Giuliani became more and more interested in politics and started as a Democrat before switching to a register Independent. He then decided to become a full Republican. In 1989 he decided to run for Mayor of New York City. He recieved the party nominations of both the Republican and Liberal parties, but he lost to Democrat Dave Dinkins; losing in the city's closest election up till that time 50,000 out of 1,900,000. This didn't keep Giuliani from running again in 1993 for Mayor. Giuliani attacked Dinkins poor mayorship and it became a very bitter race. His efforts though narrowly got him elected Mayor. he became the first Republican Mayor since 1965. Mayor Giuliani decided first to combat crime control in his first days in office. He wanted to make the un manageable city of New York to become a city clean of crime. He came up with a pan with Police Commissioner Bill Braton to decrease crime and he hired a top of the knotch team to help him. Bratton was probably more successful in making New York City one of the safest metropolitan areas in America, and many say when Bratton was featured on Time Magazine's cover that Giuliani removed him from office, but this is unlikely. Mayor Giuliani was known for his real estate business dealings and urban construction of the city. In 1997 he was re-elected Mayor 59%-41%. Mayor Giuliani became a big New York politician. He had his eyes set on Capitol Hill. In April of 1999 he filed an exploratory committe for running for the U.S. Senate. Democrats drafted then U.S. First Lady Hillary Clinton to run against him. Giuliani and Clinton were expected to make the race very close, however because of his prostate cancer and the terrible divorce with his wife Donna Hanover and may affairs before that, Giuliani dropped out and Congressman Rick Lazio. On 9/11 Mayor Giuliani delivered one of the best responses to the disaster. He put up departments for terror security and put together plans for reconstruction. He really met what New York needed at the time and was hailed as a hero for his excellent response. After the attacks Giuliani's approval rating among NY voters went from 36% to 79%! The name "America's Mayor" was given to Giuliani after a memorial service and he was now one of the most popular politicians in America. Also after the attacks Giuliani was named Time Magazine's "person of the year" for 2001. He was even noted to maybe even ebing able to run for a 3rd term as Mayor, but law forbidded it. He endorsed his elected successor Mike Bloomberg. The highest honor he recieved was an honorary knighthood from Queen Elizabeth. After he left the mayorship he was more popular then ever! He founded Giuliani partners LLC after he left office and made more business success. Giuliani made more success in politics, becoming a key-note speaker at the GOP Presidential Convention in 2004. When Homelnad Security Secretary Tom Ridge resigned Giuliani was at the top of the list to succed him , but because of past scandals Giuliani decided not to seek the postion. He was expected to seek statewide office like either Governor or Senator in 2006. Polls showed Giuliani ahead in both races, but he chose not to run for either, probably to prepare for a 2008 run for the White House. In early 2006 a Draft Rudy in 2008 group formed and in November he formed an exploratory committee. Last Month he filed a statement of candidacy with the FEC to run for president. Early polling shows him as the frontrunner, and he may become the liberal candidate nominated from the Republicans.

Decision 2007: The Races, and Politics-Central endorses Northup!

Here are some anaylsis on the upcoming races this fall:

Louisiana Governor: This race has surprised many in the past month with Governor Blanco's surprising announcement that she wont run for another term. Democrats are currently searching for a replacement, but they seem to be behind Fmr. U.S. Senator John Breaux. Breaux may not be eligble to run since he is a registered maryland voter, but he would be the Democrats strongest candidate at the moment. If Breaux can't run that will leave Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu as the Democrats last chance at keeping the Governor's Mansion. Landrieu if fresh off his New Orleans Mayoral defeat and many wonder if he can actually beat the state's GOP endorsed candidate Congressman Bobby Jindal. Jindal seems to be the strongest GOP force thus far, and could actually win the race without a runoff. I believe this will be the first GOP pick-up since the 2004 elections after the terrible 2006 midterm elections.
Politics-Central Rating: Leans Republican

Kentucky Governor: Unpopular Governor Ernie Fletcher continues to pursue a 2nd term even though the race seems more and more hopeless for him. Fmr. Congressman Anne Northup, who is fresh off her narrow 2006 re-election defeat, is challenging Governor Fletcher for the Republican nomination. Businessman Billy Harper is also running for the party's nomination. Right now polls show Fletcher in a close race with Northup; either tied or narrowly defeating her. Harper continues to poll in the double digits as well. The crowded Democratic field consists of Fmr. Lt. Governor Steve Beshear, Attorney Gatewood Galbraith, Fmr. Lt. Governor Steve Henry, Demolition contractor Otis Hensley, Health Care Corp. CEO Bruce Lunsford, State Treausurer Jonathan Miller, and State House Speaker Jody Richards. Polls show every candidate except for Hensley having shot at the nomination, with Henry and Beshear leading the pack. Everyone of those candidates could have a chance at beating Fletcher, but can they beat Northup? Of Northup ousts Fletcher the Democrats can't go negative. Fletcher has plenty of dirt while Northup doesn't. Northup could actually stand a better chance at holding this GOP governor seat.
Politics-Central Rating: Leans Republican

Mississippi doesn't need examining considering that Governor Haley Barbour should cruise to an easy landslide re-election.

We also want to note our first and probably only 2007 election endorsement. Politics-Central officially endorses Fmr. Congressman Anne Northup for Governor in 2007.

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings #18.

Here are this week's Presidential Power Rankings.

Republicans:

1st: Rudolph Giuliani (falling) Giuliani has fully regained his frontrunner status on Politics-central with continual leads in polls. Giuliani however didn't score so well among fundraising numbers. His numbers have fallen though with Thompson's entrance.

2nd: John McCain (rising) With a new finacial team, after his poor finish in fundrasing numbers, McCain could pcik up steam. He adds to list of early primary wins, with West Viginia. He now leads in NH and is gaining in IA as well.

3rd Tied: Mitt Romney (rising) Romney led the pack in fundraising this past quarter, so this may have given him a bit of momentum, but Thompson's entrance may hurt his top tier status.

3rd Tied: Fred Thompson (rising) Thompson continues to recieve top tier poll numbers. If he jumps in you could see him make the race a 3 man stage.

4th: Newt Gingrich (steady) Gingrich's name still gives him high numbers. If Gingrich does jump in this may hurt or kill what chances Romney had left.

5th: This week we had a hard time choosing the #5 spot considering there is 3-4 candidates in this area so we rank, Chuck Hagel, Mike Huckabee, Sam Brownback, and Tommy Thompson in this spot.

Democrats:

1st: Hillary Clinton (falling) Edwards jump in polls caused Obama to decrease while Hillary remained double digits ahead, however Obama raised nearly as much money as the Hillary campaign stunning many. This is suppoose to be where Hillary has her edge. The Fmr. First Lady has lost her status as the presumptive nominee.

2nd tied: Barack Obama (rising) Obama stunned the political world by tying with one of the biggest names in Democratic politics in fundraising. This one woman show has turned into a 3-candidate stage and I would be surprised If Obama actually pulled off defeating Hillary and becoming the first African American to win a major party's nomination for president.

2nd tied: John Edwards (rising) His fundraising wasn't impressive, but his support in Iowa and New Hampshire makes us wonder if Neither a woman or a Black will make a first in taking the Democratic nomination.

3rd: Bill Richardson (steady) The 3 candidate race has left 2nd tier candidates in the dust, but Richardson some how holds onto being the leader of those candidates. Richardson may become the VP candidate of he works hard enough kissing up for it.

4th: Joesph Biden (steady) Biden still hsn't rebounded from his announcement fumble, but he may make something out of this race.

5th: Dennis Kucinich (steady) Kucinich is doing very will in separating himself from the 2nd tier candidates, but everyone knows he doesn't stand a chance.

Decision 2008: Jim Gilmore

After 2 months of Hiatus Politics-Central continues our "Candidate of the Week" section when we go by ABC's through every presidential candidate giving a brief biography of them. Today Former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore is our subject.

Governor Jim Gilmore was born on October o6, 1949 to a grocery store meat cutter in Richmond, Virginia. Gilmore when to school in Virginia and attended the University of Virginia. He went on a 3 year military tour in W. Germany in the early 1970's after recieving an undergraduate's degree. He entered UV's law school afterwards graduating in 1977. While in college he was elected s statewide officer in College Republicans. He also met and Married his wife, First Lady Contender, Roxane. He ran for county prosecuter and was elected in 1987. He was re-elected in 1991. Gilmore gambled his political career in 1993 when re ran for State Attorney General. he was considered a long shot, however he was elected that November. Gilmore was a legal wizard of the taxpayers and this gave him unfounding popularity. He announced in 1997 his candidacy for governor. He was an underdog, however he over came this and was elected Governor of Virginia in 1997. he became known for his immense tax cuts amking the largest tax cut in the state's history. Taxpayers gave the governor high marks. Governor Gilmore also worked to keep weapons out of criminals hands. Governor Gilmore earned national attention with his positive response to 9/11. He made his own commission to look into the attack and volunteered his own time to the victims of the attacks. After leaving the Governor's mansion in 2001, he was appointed Republican National Committee and helped his party gain seats in both houses of congress in the midterm elections. After the elections, Gilmore left the RNC. Governor Gilmore left the politcial field for 4 years until a "Draft Gilmore for President committee" was formed. he then formed an explorartory committee. Gilmore's campaign is considered the conservative alternate to Mitt Romney and his campaign expects him to be among Giuliani, McCain, and Romney by the end of the year. This may not happen with the appearence of new top tier candidate Fred Thompson who is also trying to become the conservative alternate to Romney.

This was this week's candidate stay tuned for "America's Mayor" Rudolph Giuliani soon. Since our Hiatus we may have up to 3 candidates just this week.

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings Week #17

Here are the end of the month rankings. If you remember here we include every main presidential candidate. Poly Awards will be announced next Friday and I have yet to continue Our candidate of the week section, because of how busy I have been. I will continue with Jim Gilmore soon!

Republicans
1st Tied: John McCain (rising) McCain is climbing back in new polls and some now show him performing better against Hillary Clinton than Giuliani is. His strength is really showing in early states: NH, IA, FL, MI, and SC. His fundraising is lagging however. He needs to improve here.

1st Tied: Rudolph Giuliani (steady) Giuliani is at a stand still really in supoort. He remains strong in polls, however Thompson is taking support away from him. Giuliani and McCain could remain in a tie for awhile unless McCain falls really behind in money or Thompson comes out of nowhere and makes it a 3 way.

2nd: Fred Thompson (rising) The first week of being a potential presidential candidate has been great for this former senator. Heavy media attention and Polls have really made this story of him running a buzz. New Polls show him in 3rd or 4th and only 9-12 points behind Sen. McCain. Could he get in the way of McCain and Romney's comeback?

3rd: Mitt Romney (falling) With Thompson's entrance comes Romney's fall. Now that he passes and old challenge (Gingrich) he faces another huge one. Can he take this rising giant down too or will he lose his spot among top tier candidates.

4th: Newt Gingrich (steady) Newt's back in the game. Well he has been there for awhiel. Gingrich, despite fallen media atteantion remains in the top 5 among polls and sometimes in the top 3! Look for him to drop soon.

5th: Mike Huckabee (steady) After learning that Huckabee would carry his homestate by 20 points, we gave Huckabee a little bounce, since many candidates are losing their homestates to top tier candidates. His national numbers, and fundraising are slowly raising, and he could be a possible darkhorse.

6th: Chuck Hagel (falling) Hagel has lost the media attention after not announcing whne many thought he would. His appearence in the fourm that was held a week ago gave him little buzz. He could continue dropping spots if he doesn't get the media's attention back.

7th: Sam Brownback (falling) Brownback use to be in the top 5 in support, but he has had a bit of a dryspell. Everyone has forgotten about him. I dont expect him to rebound soon.

8th: Tommy Thompson (steady) Having another Thompson (unrelated) in the race may hurt his canddiacy, but its not likely. He is rising in Iowa so that may help him.

9th: Jim Gilmore (steady) Gilmore or Gilmore who? has many have called him, is another victim to the spotlight staying on Top Tier candidates. His conservatism has been forgotten about since Thompson's entrance into the race. He no longer threatens Romney's conservative support.

10th: Tom Tancredo (steady) Tancredo remains barely in the top 10. Some numbers have him at 3% and he is calling himself David in the David and Goliath story. Boy is he right, but I don't think he will find the weakness to the Goliaths he is running against.

11th: George Pataki (falling) Pataki has done almost everything short of just coming out and saying he isn't running so we will put him near the bottom.

12th: Duncan Hunter (steady) Hunter still doesn't realize he is near the bottom, however he still campaigns vigoursly in IA, and NH.

13th: Ron Paul (steady) The highest number of support I have seen for Paul is 3%. his average is either to small to show or just 1%. He really is at the end of the list of GOP's running in 2008.

Democrats:

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) Hillary's fundraising base is impressive as many expected, with the former president and her husband campaigning with her, but her support continues to drop as her main challengers Obama and Edwards continue to rise.

2nd: Barack Obama (steady) Obama is now gaining on Clinton nationally and in key states. A new poll in Iowa showed Obama right in the game only a few points behind Hillary and Edwards.

3rd: John Edwards (rising) With the news of his wife's cancer return, comes newfound support in such states as Iowa. His lead has increased, but experts predict his support will take a huge dip in polls, maybe even costing him his top tier status.

4th: Bill Richardson (steady) Well now I think Richardson knows he has it lost, and is now trying everything but kissing Hillary's feet to become her running mate. I dont think he will get that either. A woman and a hispanic on the same ticket may be risky. Don't expect a Clinton-Richardson ticket in 2008.

5th: Wesley Clark (steady) Clark will probably not run since he stated he would be quick about announcing a run for the White House again. His numbers are starting to show how waiting is hurting his chances.

6th: Joe Biden (steady) Biden hasn't rebounded yet from his announcing mistake yet, but if a major candidate like Edwards loses steam, and Gore doesn't decide to jump in he could get into the running.

7th: Dennis Kucinich (steady) The congressman moved a slot since his peace candidate status has separated him from the other minor candidates in the Democratic race.

8th: Christopher Dodd (steady) Sen. Dodd continues to remain at the bottom of polls. You would think a senator with so much experience would perform better, but with the biggest names in Democratic politics running, its hard to compete.

9th: Al Sharpton (falling) Sharpton was considered to be a candidate already when he stated he didn't why he shouldn't run again in 2008, but he still remains reutral on the subject of his running.

10th: Mike Gravel (steady) Gravel has only be included in 2 polls and both showed his high at 1%. Gravel isn't going anywhere and everyone knows it.

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings Week #16 McCain coming back?

Here are this weeks Presidential Power Rankings:

Republicans

1st (Tied): John McCain (rising) McCain comes out on top in Iowa and New Hampshire. He also comes out on top in MI, SC, and FL which are expected to have primaries after NH. With 5 wins in those states that is enogh to put him back in the #1 spot for the first time in 2 months. Even though he trails in Nationwide polls these states are enough to take the nomination.

1st (Tied): Rudolph Giuliani (steady) Giuliani still remains ahead by double digits in nationwide polls, however he is falling in key states. Giuliani's is lagging from Fred Thompson's entrance and McCain's campaign start.

2nd: Mitt Romney (steady) New polls out of New Hampshire show Romney within striking distance of winning there. Only 6 points behind McCain there if his numbers improve in New Hampshire he could become a serious threat to frontrunners: McCain and Giuliani.

3rd: Fred Thompson (rising) Thompson enters the race with hight poll ratings in key states and is within striking distance of Top-Tier candidates. Should he decide to run this Actor who played the president could actually become president.

4th: Newt Gingrich (falling) Romney and Thompson are starting to pass Gingirch in polls and in support. His delay in running will end his chances. I dont see him running.

5th: Chuck Hagel (falling) Hagel is falling in polls and we stillaren't sure he will even run. Hagel I think is killing his chances by waiting.

Democrats:

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) Hillary has finally stopped falling in support, however the damage has been done. Nationwide polls now find her main challengers at least 5 points higher and her 15-20 points lower. can Hillary rebound?

2nd: Barack Obama (rising) With Edwards slum in polls we will continue to rate Obama as rising. Obama now is within striking distance of the #1 spot.

3rd: John Edwards (falling) Edwards's wife's new probably doesn't help his recent slip in numbers. Obama and Clinton continue to slip away as he loses his top tier status.

4th: Wesley Clark (steady) It still seems unlikely that he will run, however he remains a strong 2nd tier candidate.

5th: Bill Richardson (steady) No real changes from ast week. Same old same old.

Decision 2007: Blanco's out!

Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco, has announced she will not run for a 2nd term in 2007, facing tough competition from the opposing GOP party. Blanco had been plaqued by her viewed poor handling of Hurricane Katrina. Her approval numbers averaged around the low 40's and 30's and her main challenger GOP Congressman Bobby Jindal currently holds a comfortable lead over Blanco. Look for the Democrats to rally support around State Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu who has yet to state whether he will run for governor in 20077, but has stated interest in the race. Fmr. Sen. John Breaux is expected not to run and Democrats and other political leaders feel he cant run since he resides in Maryland. With Blanco out I do see a little hope for Democrats to keep this seat, but I still see Jindal as the next governor of Louisiana.

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings week #15

Republicans:

1st: Rudolph Giuliani (falling) Giuliani is beginning is small, but expected dip in polls and support. New recent polls have shown his gigantic lead cut in half. Key states are also moving away from Giuliani's collum.

2nd: John McCain (rising) Finally McCain's support is moving on up. A Fox poll has him only down by 2 and American Research only has him down by 4. FL, MI, and SC have swung his direction lately and he has begun to increase his lead in NH and almost tie with Giuliani in Iowa.
The McCain Train is back on track.

3rd: Mitt Romney (rising) Romney now comes in close 3rds or even 2nds in NH and in MI he is gaining. Utah, an easy win for Romney is also moving up in primary dates so this might increase his momentum.

4th: Fred Thompson (rising) The buzz has just arrived about a possible Thompson run. After acting as the president he wants to become one and he is the top of political news this week. Should he decide to jump into the 2008 race he would really shake up the playing field.

5th Tied: Newt Gingirch (steady) Gingrich still remains 3rd or 4th in most polls and that is enough to get back into the race.

5th Tied: Chuck Hagel (steady) Still deciding whether to run or not, Hagel, being the strongest GOP opponent of the President would really skae up the field.

Democrats:

1st: Hillary Clinton (falling) Clinton's numbers continue to plummet as the first roud of the primaries comes to an end. Cand she rebound? We will say this race is still hers to lose.

2nd: Barack Obama (rising) NH, IA, MI, FL numbers for Obama are rising along with rising national support. Can a rockstar defeat the Queen of Democratic Politics?

3rd: John Edwards (steady) The only place Edwards is performing well in is Iowa and that is enough to keep him alive. If Florida and Michigan become scheduled the same week as South Carolina, I think Edwards will have a hard time stealing the momentum.

4th: Bill Richardson (steady) Richardson's experience in politics has yet to help his presidential ambitions. he has alot of work to do.

5th: Joe Biden (steady) Biden still has between 2-5% in some Super Tuesday states. This might revive an already dead campaign.

The Nominees are in!

Here are the nominees for the following Politics-Central Poly Awards:

Best Presidential Candidate in the Field of Trust:
Illionis U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D)
Arizona U.S. Senator John McCain (R)
Texas Congressman Ron Paul (R)
Fmr. N. Carolina U.S. Senator John Edwards (D)

Best Presidential Candidate in the Field of Experience
New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson (D)
Arizona U.S. Senator John McCain (R)
Texas Congressman Ron Paul (R)
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani (R)

Best Overall Presidential Candidate
Illionis U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D)
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani (R)
Fmr. MA Governor Mitt Romney (R)
New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson (R)

Best Political Blog covering the 2008 Presidential Election
Politics1.com
ConservativePresident2008.blogspotcom
TheNextPrez.blogspot.com
Our very own Politics-Central.Blogspot.com
OvalOffice2008.com
KrustyKonservative.blogspot.com

1st Annual Politics-Central Poly Awards!

We here at Politics Central started the first annual Poly Awards.

For the first round we will only have 4 categories but in the April we will add more categories. The TOP 5 selected in every category will become the nominees and in 2 weeks the winners will be revealed.

The Categories

Best Presidential Candidate in the Field of Trust

Best Presidential Candidate in the Field of experience

Best Presidential Candidate overall

Best Political Blog covering the 2008 Presidential Election

Coming soon!

Best Politcal Blog Publisher and Editor

Best Political Blog covering the 2007 National Elections

Best Political Blog covering Political News Overall

Nex Friday the nominees will be revealed and voting will begin!

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings #15

Here are this weeks rankings.

Republicans

1st: Rudolph Giuliani (steady) Giuliani's lead has stopped growing, but it remains wide. Giuliani is surprisingly remaining strong. I still expect Giuliani's numbers to decrease and for him to lose his frontrunner status to either McCain or Romney.

2nd: John McCain (steady) McCain, to my surprise is falling in suport, but I would never count him out. he is a strong candidate and along with Romney, the most presidential candidate running. His immense experience could also help him rebound.

3rd: Mitt Romney (rising) His endorsement and financial support continues to be impressive and is cotinuing to slowly rise in polls. I expect Romney to rise even more with Newt's slip.

4th: Chuck Hagel (rising) This Monday could be the start or the end of the Hagel momentum train to the nomination. I expect Hagel to gain in support if he decides to run for president.

5th: Newt Gingrich (falling) Gingrich's slip about his affair could really hurt his presidential chances. Gingirch continues to ruin his chances. gingrich did have high numbers awhile ago, but he continues to slip in polls while Mitt Romney strengthens in numbers.

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (falling) A new American Research Poll has Obama only 3 point behind Hillary. Hillary's lead has fallen and Obama continues to grow in support. I think Hillary has a fight on her hands.

2nd: Barack Obama (rising) Obama continues to griw by almost 5 points every week if this continues he could for the first time take the lead away from Hillary.

3rd: John Edwards (falling) New national polls and polls in South Carolina show Edwards in a distant third. The only factor Edwards can rely on is that he is the most electable Democrat.

4th: Bill Richardson (steady) His experience has yet to help his poor numbers. he may drop soon and lead the way for maybe a Clark or Biden rebound.

5th: Joe Biden (steady) Biden has poor national numbers but averages between 2-5% in key states. These numbers show a possible rebound after his announcement slum.

New American Research Polls
(R)Rudy Giuliani 48%
(D)Hillary Clinton 42%

(R)Rudy Giuliani 46%
(D)Barack Obama 41%

(R)John McCain 45%
(D)Hillary Clinton 42%

(R)John McCain 46%
(D)Barack Obama 42%

GOP Preference National
(R)Rudy Giuliani 34%
(R)John McCain 30%
(R)Newt Gingrich 12%
(R)Mitt Romney 7%
(R)Sam Brownback 1%
(R)Mike Huckabee 1%
(R)Tommy Thompson 1%
(R)Chuck Hagel 1%
(R)George Pataki 1%
(R)Jim Gilmore 1%
(R)Tom Tancredo 1%
(R)Ron Paul 1%
(R)Duncan Hunter -%
Undecided 9%

Dem. Preference National
(D)Hillary Clinton 34%
(D)Barack Obama 31%
(D)John Edwards 15%
(D)Bill Richardson 2%
(D)Joe Biden 1%
(D)Wesley Clark 1%
(D)Chris Dodd 1%
(D)Dennis Kucinich 1%
Undecided 14%

Florida GOP Preference
(R)John McCain 38%
(R)Rudy Giuliani 28%
(R)Newt Gingrich 8%
(R)Mitt Romney 7%
(R)Chuck Hagel 1%
(R)Mike Huckabee 1%
(R)George Pataki 1%
(R)Jim Gilmore 1%
(R)Tom Tancredo 1%
(R)Duncan Hunter 1%

Michigan GOP Preference
(R)John McCain 35%
(R)Rudy Giuliani 30%
(R)Newt Gingrich 9%
(R)Mitt Romney 8%
(R)Chuck Hagel 1%
(R)Mike Huckabee 1%
(R)Tom Tancredo 1%
(R)Tommy Thompson 1%

South Carolina GOP Preference
(R)John McCain 35%
(R)Rudy Giuliani 29%
(R)Newt Gingrich 10%
(R)Mitt Romney 5%
(R)Mike Huckabee 1%
(R)Jim Gilmore 1%
(R)Tom Tancredo 1%
(R)Duncan Hunter 1%

Decision 2008: Hagel to announce 2008 plans.....

Nebraska U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel announced Wedensday that he will announce his plans for 2008 monday. Hagel has been suggested as a possible presidential candidate, so he could announce his canddiacy monday, however he could even announce he will not run for president and not even for reelection in 2008. Hagel is a strong opponent of the troop surge in Iraq and has often been the GOP leader of attacks on the president. He co-sponsored that non-binding resolution last week against the trrop surge. Hagel is likely going to be the last to decide among the GOP except for of course Newt Gingrich. Hagel's candidacy shouldn't be underestimated, because it is expected that he will perform well in key early states. I guess we will all have to tune in on Monday and see if Hagel will make a run for the White House or step out of the political spotlight.

McCain announces on Letterman!

Last week on Letterman Politics-Central's endorsed candidate, Arizona U.S. Senator John McCain announced on "The Late Show with David Letterman" that he will run for president in 2008! McCain enters the race near the top og GOP contenders and could very well become our next president. He is set to formally announce in April. So far McCain's only serious challengers are Rudy Giuliani and Mitt Romney. We well learn soon how this closely contested GOP race will turn out.

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings Week #14

Here are this weeks rankings. sorry this is so late. I will continue my Candidate of the Week section next week.

Republicans

1st: Rudolph Giuliani (rising) Giuliani's lead has grown to the double digits in most polls, but Giuliani's lead could be upset when he loses key states, because he is still in a dead heat in most states. I will say Giuliani has a good fundraising base.

2nd: John McCain (steady) McCain's support nationwide is falling apart, but His lead has grown in NH and SC. Giuliani's lead remains strong in Iowa, but isn't rising there. McCain could easily catch up when his campaign gets in full swing.

3rd: Mitt Romney (rising) Romney remains strong in polls and is gaining. He has officially pasted Gingrich in most polls and is in the double digits in NH. His fundraising base is impressive as well.

4th: Newt Gingrich (falling) gingrich is majorally falling, becuase many don't think he will even run.

5th: Mike Huckabee (rising) Huckabee, is in our opinion, the strongest darkhorse candidate. Being Governor gives him mor eleadership skills that that of Hagel and Brownback. He could easily jumpinto the top 3 if Gingrich doesn't run.

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (falling) Hillary's lead is diminishing. About 2 weeks ago Hillary had a 30 point lead not it is only 10! Rasmussen has Obama only 8 points behind. It is still hers to lose, and she is doing a great job at losing it.

2nd: Barack Obama (rising) Obama is now only a few points behind Hillary and is moving up fast. His rockstar appearence and Hillary's attacks have helped him gain in strength.

3rd: John Edwards (steady) Edwards's numbers in IA and SC remain strong so he is still a strong competitor. I wouldn't count him out yet.

4th: Bill Richardson (falling) Richardson's campaign appears so far to be a lost cause. He isn't going up or down in polls. Richardson shouldn't be counted out yet though.

5th: Joe Biden (falling) Polls out of Delaware show Biden in 3rd! If you cant be a favorite son in your homestate you shouldn't even try.

Sorry no rankings today!

Sorry about not posting for awhile. My time has been preoccupied. I will try to give my rankings by monday!

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings Week #13: Giuliani and Hillary continue to lead.

Its that time to post my end of the month Presidential Rankings. This includes every announced candidate running for president or possible contenders. Vilsack won't be included since he ended his campaign today.

Republicans

1st: Rudolph Giuliani (steady) Lead remains high in nationwide polls, but his organization in key early states is poor. He may lose key staes and throw his campaign out the door.

2nd John McCain (steady) McCain remains steady in polls, but his support among states in IA and NH remains strong. He has slipped in polls, but this can be expected since he has rarley campaigned.

3rd: Mitt Romney (rising) More polls in New Hampshire show a a strong Romney showing. He is now well known and could become a serious player with climbing numbers.

4th: Newt Gingrich (steady) Gingrich numbers are slowly starting to fall as Romney's rise. He will likely not run for president in 2008 with falling support.

5th: Chuck Hagel (steady) Hagel has yet to stae whether he is running, but his numbers in Iowa are doing very well for a long shot so this earns him a top 5 spot.

6th: Sam Brownback (steady) Brownbak remains in the top 5 in polls, but his support in key states remains at a steady 1%

7th: Mike Huckabee (steady) Huckabee is a long shot, but experts predict he is the most liely darkhorse as a Fmr. Governor and we rank him #1 or #2 as a chose for VP.

8th: Jim Gilmore (steady) Being a governor and having conservative views could sway voters over. Don't count Gilmore out yet.

9th: Tommy Thompson (steady) His support in Iowa is growing and he is getting a fundraising base. He could be a strong candidate.

10th: George Pataki (falling) It isn't likely Pataki will run so he we rank him very low.

11th: Duncan Hunter (steady) Hunter is really known so he will remain near the bottom.

12th: Tom Tancredo (falling) Tancredo is still trying to revive himself from his remarks made earlier in the campaign. I don't look for him to revive.

13th: Ron Paul (steady) His radical Libertarian views and his unpopularity isn't helping his campaign.

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) Clinton has risen in National polls, but has fallen in key states, so she remains at a steady pase.

2nd: Barack Obama (steady) Obama is gorwing in support slowly, and could pull off early wins in NH and SC. Obama is I believe the most successful black candidate for president.

3rd: John Edwards (rising) Edwards's polls in IA are strong and he is the strongest candidate in GOP match-up polls. Edwards we believe seems to be the most electable Democrat running.

4th: Bill Richardson (steady) His numbers are low, but cpuld change with his experience and charisma.

5th: Joe Biden (steady) His remarks have gotten him in to troubl, but he remains a somewhat strong candidate.

6th: Wesley Clark (steady) Clark has moved down a positin for his reluctance to announce.

7th: Christopher Dodd (steady) Dodd remains alomst dead last in polls and avearges about 1%. He is too unknown.

8th: Dennis Kucinich (steady) Peace candidate mask hasn't really helped Kucinich, and is the same old candidate as in 2004.

9th: Al Sharpton (steady) Sharpton probably will run for soemthing to do. He knows he doesn't have a chnace of winning.

10th: Mike Gravel (steady) Gravel is too unknown and forgotteh for a presidential run and isn't doing too much campaigning. He has so little support he isn't included in polls.

Decision 2008: Vilsack quits the race.

2008 Presidential Candidate and Former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack today formally withdrew his candidacy for president in 2008, becuase of poor showings in polls compared to frontrunners Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and John Edwards. Vilsack polled 3rd and 4th in even his homestate of Iowa 10-15 points behind Edwards. Vilsack was hoping an early win in Iowa would surge him to victory in other key victories, but if he lost Iowa it would instantly kill his campaign. If his homestate wouldn't support him who would? His withdrawal from the race could help increase John Edwards's lead in Iowa.

Decision 2008: Democrats meet in Nevada and other news

Yesterday every announced Democratic Presidential Candidate in 2008 met in Nevada except for Illionis U.S. Senator Barack Obama who felt it was too early to hold a forum or debate. They discussed everything from Iraq to Healthcare. We have yet to rate the overall "winner" of the forum, because we haven't fully accessed Sen. Edwards and Sen. Clinton.

According to new IA polls Edwards lead is slipping, and Giuliani's lead is strengthening. McCain and Clinton's lead in NH are slipping one poll shows Giuliani and Obama ahead in NH.The frontrunners could be dethrowned. New national and NH polls show Romney having an average of a bout 13% which is an all time high only 10 points behind McCain and Giuliani and Edwards and Obama are strating to lead in key early states. Florida could wind up dethrowning South Carolina's importance in 2008 if its primary gets scheduled on the day. Polls have yet to come out of Florida except for General Election polls so it is open territory, but this could be a strength for McCain with his strength in the south like South Carolina.

Independent/Write-In Presidential candidates such as Bob Hargis have started to work for Unity'08's nomination for president and with it a promised 50 state ballot access which could really help a independent perform better overall. The chances of an Independent getting elected are about 1 out of 1-10,000. The only to possible candidates that could actuallt get over 5% is Fmr. Minnesota Governor Jesse Ventura, and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Bloomberg has been offered a chance to seek Unity'08's nomination, however he has yet to mention a run as an independent, but he has turned down a GOP run. Ventura says he hasn't ruled out 2008 yet. Ralph Nader has stated he is considering running for president again. He has yet stated whether he will seek the presidency as a Reform candidate, Green Candidate, or just an Independent.

Independent Power Rankings

1st: Michael Bloomberg (steady) Bloomberg isn't likely to run, but wiht Unity'08's support and other 3rd party support Bloomberg could go far.

2nd: Jesse Ventura (steady) Ventura has dropped out of the spotlight lately, but since Kinky Friedman's strong showing in Texas, Ventura could be a strong candidate.

3rd: Ralph Nader (steady) Nader has been toying with the idea of running again, but it is unlikely he will get his near 2,000,000 votes back in 2000.

4th: Bob Hargis (steady) If Bloomberg and Ventura do not run and he gets Unity'08's support he good rank among usual 3rd party candidates.

5th: Steve Adams (steady) Adams a local pastor and small businessman has strong support on the internet.

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings Week #13: Giuliani and Hillary lead.

This is this week's rankings. Giuliani entering his 2nd straight week in the top spot, but can he hold it? McCain has started to campaign and within months the two will meet to debate. Hillary remains ahead with Edwards's slip this week, while Obama remains in his position.

1st: Rudolph Giuliani (steady) Giuliani is now officially in the race, and remains ahead withthe momentum, but will his lead hold with the McCain train starting its engine.

2nd: John McCain (rising) McCain's campaign is being set up and his train is leaving the station and the momentum could wing his way. McCain also keeps on rolling the money and endorsements. He needs to work hard to catch up with Giulani's bank.

3rd: Mitt Romney (rising) Romney is rising in polls and in money. He is raising jaw dropping amounts of money and we all know the 2 candidates who face off next November will need alot of money.

4th: Newt Gingrich (falling) Romney is steaming ahead of Gingrich and Gingrich's delay in campaigning may really hurt his chances. The only thing keeping him from being removed from the top 5 is his surprisingly great numbers.

5th: Chuck Hagel (rising) Hagel remains strong in key early states and is rising in national polls. If actually does run he may have a shot.

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) Clinton remains strong in early numbers, but bit by bit she is slowly dropping in support. She is the one to beat, but she hasn't got this won yet.

2nd: Barack Obama (steady) Obama's momentum has stopped and he remains in a distant 2nd in almost every poll. Obama needs an early win to take down the Hillary machine.

3rd: John Edwards (falling) Edwards slip this week may hurt him but he remains ahead in IA and SC 2 key early wins. Thiscould give him the momentum to take the nomination away from Hillary.

4th: Bill Richardson (steady) Richardson's experience has yet to show any strength , but it could in the future.

5th: Wesley Clark (steady) Clark is a long shot, but his 4-5% showing in early states may turn into something.

Decision 2008: Edwards slumps? Endorsements race

Did the mistake made by 2 Edwards campaign aids really end his chances of winning the White House. Bill O'Reilly thinks so. He stated on his show The O'Reilly factor that he felt Edwards was done for. Many political bloggers have yet to pick up on the story and the remarks made by those aids about faith has yet to come out and really hurt Edwards, so i don't feel this hurt him. Giulian pciked up nearly 5 legislators from Mass. yesterday raining on romney's announcement parade. McCain also has picked up one there also. Congressman David Dreier, Ranking member on the House Rules Committee is also set to endorse Giuliani. Romney and McCain are currently fighting for endorsements in NH, SC, and IA. Giuliani is recieving poor endorsements support there, but his number sremain ahead of McCain in IA. 2 black South Carolina State Senators have officially endorsed Hillary Clinton for president, slapping Obama in the face. Obama's announcements has yet to give him endprsement support, but his numbers are slowly rising.

Decision 2008: Mitt Romney and Barack Obama are officially in!

Just a brief update. In the past 3 days 2 big candidate threw their hats into the ring officially only a month after their exploratory campaigns were launched. Illionis U.S. Senator Barack Obama officially announced his candidacy for president from the steps of the old statehouse in Springfield, illionis the same place Abraham Lincoln announced over 100 years ago. Fmr. Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney announced his intention to run for president in 2008 from his old home of Michigan. Both are currently in the top in our rankings and very much could be the nominees.

Politics-Central Polls: 2008 Presidential Polls

Our 14 2008 presidential polls have finally come to an end. Here are the results to our online survey polls.

(Note: these our online polls and are very inaccurate)

(D)Hillary Clinton 44%
(R)John McCain 33%
Other or Neither 22%

(D)Al Gore 50%
(R)John McCain 38%
Other or Neither 12%

(R)John McCain 45%
(D)Barack Obama 44%
Other or Neither 11%

(R)Rudolph Giuliani 25%
(D)Hillary Clinton 13%
Other or Neither 62%

(D)Al Gore 50%
(R)Rudolph Giuliani 26%
Other or Neither 24%

(D)John Edwards 50%
(R)Rudolph Giuliani 13%
Other or Neither 38%

(D)Barack Obama 63%
(R)Rudolph Giuliani 25%
Other or Neither 13%

(R)Mitt Romney 43%
(D)Hillary Clinton 29%
Other or Neither 29%

(R)Mitt Romney 91%
(D)Al Gore 7%
Other or Neither 2%

(R)Chuck Hagel 84%
(D)Hillary Clinton 3%
Other or Neither 13%

(R)Newt Gingrich 75%
(D)Al Gore 20%
Other or Neither 5%

(R)Sam Brownback 88%
(D)Barack Obama 11%
Other or Neither 1%

(R)Chuck Hagel 78%
(D)John Kerry 18%
Other or Neither 4%

(R)Mike Huckabee 51%
(D)Bill Richardson 45%
Other or Neither 4%

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings #12, Giuliani and Hillary to fight?

Here are these weeks presidential power rankings. No real major changes or surprises.

Republicans:

1st: Rudolph Giuliani (rising) the surprise of his jumping into the racegave him the momentum for the week and he has bagen to distance himself from McCain in polls. Also many republicans don't know about his weakness, social issues. Giuliani is very liberal, with Pro-choice, Pro-gun control, and Pro-gay marriage views. Giuliani could get away with becoming one of the most liberal candidates slected by the GOP. Giuliani's financial base continues to lead the field as well.

2nd: John McCain (steady) McCain continues to lag in polls and in media spotlight to Giuliani. McCain however already has the endorsement support and his organization and planning could help him regain the lead.
McCain's numbers in NH are slipping and he is now considered tied to Giuliani there.

3rd: Mitt Romney (rising) One poll out of NH has Romney tied with 20% fir 2nd with Giulian which is strongest shwoing in any poll. Romney's endorsement support, support in media attention and his numbers are rising and he could become another "comeback kid".

4th: Newt Gingrich (steady) Gingrich remains in double digits and is tied for 2nd in some states with McCain. We will continue to post Gingrich stong if his numbers remain high, even if it looks as if he wont run.

5th: Chuck Hagel (steady) His polling among nationwide polls is low but his numbers in key states is impressive considering he is embattling the biggest names in the GOP.

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) Clinton's numbers are regainign and her lead remains in the double digits nationwide. Her numbers are lagging in Iowa and New Hampshire, but they could comenack up with her recent campaigning trips to those states.

2nd: Barack Obama (steady) After recieving better poll numbers in states he regains his standing as the #2 man, but currently in polls he isn't winning any state in polls while Edwards has 2 under his belt and Hillary had 20+.

3rd: John Edwards (rising) Edwards remains very strong in Iowa with a double digit lead in most polls and is considered liley to take or do well in South Carolina, a state he won in 2004. This could give him Kerry's momentum back in 2004 to upset Hillary and Obama.

4th: Bill Richardson (steady) Richardson's experience as a mmber of the president's cabinet, US Ambassador to the UN, and a successful two term governorsip could give him the edge soon.

5th: Joe Biden (falling) Biden's poor announcement day mishap really hurt him, but I don't feel it killed his chances.

Decision 2008: Presidential Field as of now!

The list of presidential candidates has doubled since our last posting of candidate so here is the complete list of announced or soon to announce candidates:

Democratic Candidates
Delaware U.S. Sen. Joe Biden (announced)
New York U.S. Sen. Hillary Clinton (to announce)
Conn. U.S. Sen. Chris Dodd (announced)
Fmr. N. Carolina U.S. Sen. John Edwards (announced)
Fmr. Alaksa U.S. Sen. Mike Gravel (announced)
Ohio Rep. Dennis Kucinich (announced)
Illionis U.S. Sen. Barack Obama (to announce)
NM Governor Bill Richardson (to announce)
Fmr. IA Governor Tom Vilsack (announced)

Republican Candidates
Kansas U.S. Sen. Sam Brownback (announced)
Fmr. VA Governor Jim Gilmore (ex. committee)
Fmr. NYC Mayor Rudy Giuliani (to announce)
Fmr. AR Governor Mike Huckabee (ex. committee)
California Rep. Duncan Hunter (ex. committee)
Arizona U.S. Senator John McCain (to announce)
Texas Rep. Ron Paul (ex. committee)
Fmr. MA Governor Mitt Romney (to announce)
Colorado Rep. Tom Tancredo (ex. committee)
Fmr. WI Governor Tommy Thompson (ex. committee)

The first debate/forum is about to be held in Nevada by the democrats on Feb. 21st inviting all of the democrats listed above.

Politics-Central hits 9,000 vistors!

We here at Politics-Central are honored that we have reached the 9,000 different vistor mark. Thanks to all who have stayed with us since last July. On to 10,000

Decision 2008: Is Rudy really running?

Today Fmr. New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani filed a official statement not paperwork with the FEC to run for president. I expect Giuliani to announce soon. He has been very quiet since he formed his exploratory committee back in November. He has just recently set up a website for his ex.committee and has just started visiting key states. Now the question is will his lead hold. Currently he leads a crowded field of candidates, becuase of his fame from the tragic 9/11 disaster. Is that enough to bring him from city hall to the White House. Giuliani is questioned for his liberal views on gay marriage, gun control, and abortion. Giuliani could lose his lead becuase of this. The GOP hasn't picked a liberal candidate in years. New polls from the American Research Group show a slip in Giuliani's lead. He is not tied for 2nd in NH and only has a 5 point lead in Iowa. The polls show: Iowa GOP Giuliani 27%, McCain 22%, Gingrich 16% and Romney 11%. In NH the poll showed McCain 27% Giuliani 20%, Romney 20%, and Gingrich 11%. Among Democrats in Iowa it showed Clinton 35%, Edwards 18%, Obama 14%, and Vilsack 12%. In NH Clinton 39%, Obama 19%, and Edwards 13%. These are different numbers from other polls. Other polls in Iowa and NH show Edwards and Obama way ahead of Clinton so it is unclear who is winning so far.

Happy Superbowl Sunday!!!!!! Colts vs. Bears

No posts today so just enjoy the superbowl! It should turn out to be a good game! Our predicitions:

Colts 24

Bears 17

Decision 2007: Louisiana Races

I know it is a bit late after our Kentucky post, but he is our info. and analysis on the Louisana Races in 2007. Incumbant Democratic Governor of Louisiana Kathleen Blanco is up for reelection this year and she faces an uphill battle. Her unpopularity arose when the people of the bayou blamed her for much of the disaster of Katrina. The state democratic party is hoping another big name will run and surpass Blanco and the most vote getting democrat in their october first round of voting, because Blanco trails her main GOP challengers by a wide margin. Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu might be hoping to become that candidate. Congressman and fmr. GOP challenger to Blanco in 2003, Bobby Jindal has decided to jump in and run again for governor. His only GOP challenge is State Senator Walter Boasso, however Jindal's popularity in numbers shows a minor challenge. It looks as if the will come down to Blanco and Jindal and Jindal may even defeat Blanco right off the bat and their might be no need for a runoff like many expect. We predict a solid GOP pick-up and so far it looks like 2007 might be a little kinder to the GOP than 2006 to bad their is only 3 big races throughout the country and 2 look to be solid GOP.

Decision 2008: Presidential Power Rankings #11, Giuliani and Hillary again.

This our 11th Weekly Presidential Power Ranking since we started posting them. I hope you have enjoyed our rankings so far

Republicans:
1st: Rudolph Giuliani (steady) Giuliani has once again risen to the #1 spot again on our site. His numbers are strong everywhere and new polls show him tied with McCain in NH for the first time. McCain is now only winning in South caolina and Missouri. They both are falling in Democratic match-ups. Giuliani now tops all GOP candidates in fundraising thus far.

2nd: John McCain (steady) McCain has had a bit of a set back in fundraising and in poll numbers, however the endorsements and internet support is rolling in. Political professionals are lining up to work on this soon to be campaign and this could help McCain gain the advantage over Giuliani.

3rd: Mitt Romney (steady) Romney is picking up steam slowly and could become a major contender soon with new poll numbers out of NH showing him in the 20's. Romney is almost tied with Gingrich for 3rd place in nationwide polls and is picking up more and more professionals to work on his campaign and endorsements.

4th: Newt Gingrich (steady) Gingrich still holds on to strong poll numbers, but is now showing little interest in the presidential race.

5th: Mike Huckabee (rising) Huckabee is lagging in polls to Brownback and Pataki, however Pataki has pretty much opted out and Brownback is falling in support. Huckabee also with governor experience could become a potential darkhorse.

Democrats

1st: Hillary Clinton (steady) Clinton has regained stableness as the frontrunner, however only leads in NH in 1 poll and trails in Iowa in every poll. Hillary is rising in numbers against McCain and Giuliani, but has been falling in numbers against Obama and Edwards. Will Hillary win? Well right now it is hers to lose.

2nd: John Edwards (rising) Edwards is now gaining in nationwide support and is reaching a double digit lead in Iowa. He also leads in another important primary, South Carolina. Edwards also is rising in electability factors, since he is now leading Giuliani and McCain or barely trailing.

3rd: Barack Obama (steady) Obama is lagging in support in NH a big state for him. He is behind Hillary in the state for the first time in awhile. Obama is however in a steady 2nd in Iowa ahead of Hillary and Vilsack. If the momentum goes his way he could swing a victory in both states. and 2 early wins here could give him the election.

4th: Bill Richardson (rising) Richardson has risen in rankings from the Biden slip this week. His experience could give him the advantage and he could become a darkhorse.

5th: Wesley Clark (steady) Clark remains strong in early states such as Nevada and could pull out a possible good showing in NH. Clark still hasn't stated whether he will run or not, while most of the others a in the full swing of the campaign.

Stay tune for more rankings.

Saying Goodbye to a great blog!

We just want to give a little space to say goodbye to The Next Prez. The Editor Doug Daniels decided to hang it up after a year and half of continual coverage of the 2008 Presidential race due to schedule changes. This blog will be severly missed.

Stop by http://thenextprez.blogspot.com/ and say a goodbye to Mr. Daniels and his great blog.