Why Does Anyone Take Dennis Kucinich Seriously?

Unlike 2004, when he at least had a unique policy position by being so strongly anti-war and significantly to the left of the rest of the field, he has no such claim this year. In fact, of the front runners, both Obama and Edwards have genuine claims to representing the left of the Democratic Party. Now, the only thing makes Dennis Kucinich unique is that he’s a kook. Look at this video of him singing “16 Tons” in the middle of a speech (This is the highlight reel and this is the whole thing.) He’s quoted here implying that animals should have equal rights as people and has stated that he’s “running for President of the United States to enable the goddess of peace to encircle within her reach all the children of this country and all the children of the world.” This guy will eat up 1/8th of the time allotted in every Presidential debate between now and next year. What a waste. At least Mike Gravel has one unique issue with his desire for national referendums and initiatives. The only thing that’s unique about Kucinich is that he’s nutty and really goofy looking. But then again, according to his website, his “courageous and visionary presidential campaign excited a new generation of young Americans to involvement in the 2004 Democratic Primary elections.” Who knew that eight white kids with dreadlocks constituted a generation?

7 comments January 22nd, 2007