Warner signs up key New Jersey fundraisers
By Wally EdgeJust 2% of New Jerseyans picked former Virginia Governor Mark Warner as their first choice for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination in a recent Strategic Vision poll, but Warner has suddenly joined the top tier of contenders for New Jersey's dollars -- and thanks to the new early (February 26) primary -- for delegates as well. He did that by securing the services of three key Democratic fundraisers, including John F.X. Graham, the popular and respected insurance company owner who served as Co-Chairman of John Kerry's 2004 New Jersey campaign organization. Graham (along with Alfred DeCotiis, the head of a politically active North Jersey law firm and a Democratic National Committeeman, and Michael Kempner, who opened a powerful lobbying firm after working as Bob Torricelli's top fundraiser) brings the virtually unknown Warner instant credibility in New Jersey political circles. Graham's decision to raise funds for Warner's political action committee is also a potentially serious blow to Kerry's '08 prospects. Graham signed on with Kerry in early 2002 and played a key role in Kerry's ability to raise $5 million in New Jersey -- his fourth highest revenue producing state. This is also a signal that New Jersey's major Democratic fundraisers won't necessarily sit on the sidelines and wait for Governor Jon Corzine to pick a horse in the '08 race. Democratic insiders specualte that Corzine will back New York Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton if she runs.
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no love lost for Kerry, apparently. Can't blame them, but they'
no love lost for Kerry, apparently. Can't blame them, but they'll be on the outside looking in when Hillary gets the nod.
Not that I'm rooting for Hillary, but geez, I think this is a little early to be signing on with an unknown like Warner.
Warner doesn't have a high profile in New Jersey yet, but I cert
Warner doesn't have a high profile in New Jersey yet, but I certainly wouldn't call him an "unknown". If HRC decides not to run, he _is_ the frontrunner. Did a hell of a job as Governor of Virginia.
the family decotiis is never on the outside looking in. don't c
the family decotiis is never on the outside looking in. don't cry for them, you can be sure they've got the table covered.
if the old man is going with warner, you can bet the sons are going with hillary. and that doesn't count the gop partners who will cover their field.
Hell hath no fury like Hillary scorned. She appeared in Newark
Hell hath no fury like Hillary scorned. She appeared in Newark this past Sunday to help Don Payne. That is all about 2008 unless you believe Donald has a tough re-election effort.