To all those idealists who believe money can’t buy everything, especially the United States presidency, the surprising withdrawal of Scott Walker from the 2016 Republican presidential race is heartening news. The golden boy of the billionaire Koch Bothers has had his lifeline yanked. No more money for you!
It was not too long ago the Wisconsin Governor was viewed as a formidable, top-tier candidate. He was able to secure the backing of the Kochs, who vowed to throw millions of dollars his way. But the Koch Brothers didn’t become billionaires making foolish business decisions. Apparently, they know when to cut losses.
Without adequate funding, no borderline candidate can continue a political race unless he’s a Donald Trump who can fund his own campaign. With no money and poll numbers which put him with the bottom feeders of his party – Jindal, Pataki, and Graham – Walker had no choice but to bail out.
Some have argued that Walker’s demise came as a result of being unfairly compared to the flamboyant egotist Donald Trump. Compared to the “tell it like it is” billionaire, Walker came across as weak and small. I would say almost anyone pitted against the bombastic TV reality star would look wimpy and ineffectual.
No, the core problem with Walker’s candidacy was two-fold. First, he did not have a compelling message. A career politician touting himself as a union buster just doesn’t make it on the national stage, as much as the Kochs would have liked that. Second, the man has zero charisma. He does not come across well on the TV screen. There is just a dullness to him, both in appearance and speech. What were the Kochs thinking?
It will be interesting to see which other Republican candidates will soon throw in the towel. Just as compelling, which of the remaining political puppets will be lorded with Koch money.
Republicans have outspent Democrats big time in the last two elections and lost each time. Maybe Koch money isn’t enough to win an election? It’s certainly wasn’t enough to buy Scott Walker what he needed most – charisma.
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