Former Congressman Walsh Enters Republican Primary Against Trump

Former Congressman Joe Walsh has just tweeted out”I’m in.” meaning he is challenging President Trump for the Republican Primary nomination.

Here’s the tweet…

Friends, I’m in. We can’t take four more years of Donald Trump. And that’s why I’m running for President. It won’t be easy, but bravery is never easy. But together, we can do it. Join me… join us: go to joewalsh.org. Let’s show the world we’re ready to be brave.

Short take? This is a selfish, childish and stupid move, likely done to enhance his own after-politics pundit brand. Now he can add “Former Presidential Candidate,” to his title when he goes on talk shows.

Here’s why it’s almost always a dumb idea to challange the incumbent President in the party primary:

1. If the challenger wins, he will be unlikely to prevail in the General Election. Base turnout will be depleted and those persuadable voters in the middle, aren’t going to give the candidate any “conscience credit.” They will either vote Democrat or stay home, setting the stage for a rout of epic proportions.

2. If the incumbent beats the challenger (as will surely be the case in this instance) he will have sucked valuable energy and resources from the incumbent that would better used in the General Election…not to mention adding to the pile of oppo research the Democrats have.

All in all, this is a bad move. The Republican Party needs to disavow this pusillanimous poltroon and send him packing.

Mike Ford, a retired Infantry Officer, writes on Military, Foreign Affairs and occasionally dabbles in Political and Economic matters.

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