Thoughts On Elizabeth And John Edwards
1. John Edwards' crusade is larger than John Edwards. And what a way to show that to the world. Some of Edwards's opponents are grumbling, quietly, that the candidate orchestrated this event for maximum publicity and hang time.
2. On the other hand, a Democratic pollster wondered to us whether middle America might be creeped out that Edwards wouldn't suspend his campaign to go tend to his wife. The Edwardses and their staff might be willing to promote the idea of a movement candidacy, but it's by no means clear that Democratic primary voters are ready to buy it, just yet.
3. Elizabeth Edwards is a beloved, national figure. Is any candidate's wife a better asset?
Said Tony Snow: "[As] somebody who has been through this, Elizabeth Edwards is setting a powerful example for a lot of people, and a good and positive one. She has been on top of diagnosis and follow-up. When you have cancer it's very important to keep checking. She's being aggressive. She's living an active life. And a positive attitude, prayers, and people you love are always a very good addition to any kind of medicine you have. So for Elizabeth Edwards, good going; our prayers are with you.
4. As Chris Cillizza astutely points out, it's going to be very hard for any presidential candidate to cast negative aspersions on Sen. Edwards for a while. And the press will treat him with kit gloves. Check out, for example, our Hotline Spotlight:
A Greater BattleThe struggle John and Elizabeth Edwards face is far tougher than any WH campaign. But they'll face it, together, and with a base of support greater than they've ever known.
-- Throughout early WH '08, Edwards has operated within his own context. He's a top-tier Dem but still, for better or worse, exists apart from Obama and Clinton. They announced via their websites. He traveled to New Orleans to repair Katrina-ravaged homes. While they've been wracked for weeks by insider squabbles and tugs-of-war, he has talked issues in early-vote states (Like, for example, energy policy 3/20 in IA).
-- Coverage today reinforces the distinction. Obama vs. Clinton reports dwelled on Philip de Vellis, while cable nets blanketed air w/pics of the Edwards family, paired with comments likes ABC News' Sawyer ("Together they have weathered so much joy and heartbreak") and CNN's pro-HRC Carville ("My heart goes out to him").
-- John and Elizabeth Edwards have been running for pres. longer than anyone in the '08 field, arguably since he withdrew from the '04 race in 3/04. We hope they'll remain active participants of a campaign that's been clearly influenced by their unique voices. (#11)
5. Through 3/31, would any donor possibly say no to the Edwardses?
Very commendable comments by Tony Snow for a change.
Anyone who thinks that Edwards did this to gain political advantage is a sick person.
This couple continues to amaze and inspire me. For those who say that John should stay home and attend to Elizabeth, in my mind, don't know how determined and how deeply she believes America needs his leadership.
As a Canadian this race affects me deeply. I want a safe neighbouring nation again. Not one that goes to war on lies. I know that is not the America that most represent, but the present cult at the top certainly do.
To John and Elizabeth, you don't know me, but I pray LOUDLY for you and your family. Live large, love large as you already do and the world surrounds you with prayers.
Dear Mrs Edwards,
Thoughts and prayers are with you and yours at this time. I too am a breast cancer survivor having had a mastectomy on September 14, 2004. So far, I am in remission.
One positive in your difficult situation is that you have the notoriety to impact the lives of millions. I know that you will fight tirelessly for your own health and for a cure to this scary and too pervasive disease. Your efforts are appreciated and will make a difference.
God bless you with strength in the days ahead.
Can you let us know which of Edwards' opponents are grumbling that he orchestrated this to score political points? Are you talking Republican or Democratic opponents? I can't think of a single blogger from the right who has shown anything but empathy for the Edwards' and made not of Mrs. Edwards' courage. I know Giuliani, for one, echoed similar sentiments, esp. as a cancer survivor himself. Most people, regardless of political persuasion, I would think, know someone who is a cancer survivor or has lost someone to cancer.
I also kinda doubt his Democratic opponents would stoop so low. So I'm just interested in learning who's been grumbling. Thanks
John and Elizabeth Edwards personify the intellect, grace,leadership and courage under fire that our Country has been desperately searching for. Wouldn't we all be bursting with pride to have them represent us as Pres and First Lady? Blessings to them both and for our Country.
I say anyone who criticizes the Edwards' for their way of coping with the most dreadful situations, especially the death of their son,"Let them walk in their shoes before they speak." We lost a beloved grandson and our way to handle it was to keep very busy. Purpose to move on with your life is most important.
I'm not going to refrain from criticizing the Edwards campaign myself on tactics and don't expect anyone else to given his statements yesterday, but I think his character is off limits for the time being.
Elizabeth,
I have just finished reading your book and no book has touched my heart and mind like yours. You are a true inspiration to all women, wives and mothers. My prayers are with you in your latest challenge.