Biden His Time (Till '08)

So U.S. Sen. Joe Biden says he will be running for president in 2008. Let me say this about that: I'm pumped.

Yes, yes, a bunch of Democrats intent on shooting themselves in the foot will grouse about his vote for the bankruptcy bill earlier this year (which we're willing to forgive, since the guy represents Delaware, the Ground Zero of credit card companies). And some, no doubt, will dredge up the plagiarism woes that tanked his bid in 1988 (which we're also willing to overlook, considering the American people penchant for forgiveness, or haven't you noticed the current occupant?).

The Moderate Voice's Joe Gandelman notes that Biden will make for a tough candidate, and he succinctly wraps up the senator's strengths and weaknesses:

"Strongest point: is quite media savvy. Reporters love a good quote and Biden has given them good, solid ones over the years.

"Weakest point: You need party activists to win primaries and his supporters may not have the fire in their bellies needed to counter supporters of some of the others."

Here's the thing about Joe Biden: He has the presence, charisma and overall gravitas it takes to win. At first blush, he certainly seems a more viable -- and centrist -- candidate than Hillary.

And that's all you need, really.