Sen. Bob Graham's prudent decision to bow out of the presidential race leaves him with another choice he should make known soon: whether he'll run for re-election to the U.S. Senate.
Published October 8, 2003
Sen. Bob Graham's wide popularity and successful campaign strategies served him well at home, but they never translated to the national stage. So when Graham announced Monday night that he would drop his faltering presidential bid, he made the right choice at the right time. Now, Graham has one more important decision to make - whether he will seek a fourth term in the U.S. Senate - and he should not wait long before revealing it.
Graham has served the state and nation ably in Washington, and was arguably the most qualified candidate in the crowded Democratic presidential field. Even after dropping out, Graham would likely improve his party's chances to win Florida's important electoral votes if he is chosen as the vice-presidential candidate. And this is why Graham should reveal his intentions soon.
It would not be fair to his party or Florida residents for Graham to seek re-election to the Senate while quietly anticipating the second spot on the Democrat's presidential ticket. Nor would it be in keeping with his high standards for public service. So Florida's senior senator should make it clear: If he seeks to retain his Senate seat, he will rule out the vice presidency.
Graham is understandably disappointed at the failure of his star-crossed campaign for the presidential nomination. Medical treatment for a heart problem and his duties on the Senate Intelligence Committee delayed his entry into the race. He was never able to gain ground, either in financial contributions or in the polls. Traits that endeared him to Floridians - understated political rhetoric and the common touch - never caught on in the early primary states. Graham's efforts to sharpen his criticism of President Bush seemed out of character.
None of that should detract from Graham's service to his state, as legislator, governor and senator. In the Senate, he has consistently sought principled yet pragmatic solutions to the nation's problems, from Medicare reform to the fight against terrorism. In an increasingly partisan and ideological Congress, he has effectively sought common ground.
If Graham still has the desire to remain in the Senate, Floridians should welcome his candidacy. The best-known Republicans who have announced their interest in the seat are far to the right of the state's political mainstream, notably House Speaker Johnnie Byrd and former U.S. Rep. Bill McCollum. They would find Graham a tough opponent despite his recent political setback.
But if Graham still wants a spot on his party's national ticket, he should bow out of the Senate race early and give other Democratic candidates enough time to compete effectively. Former state Education Commissioner and University of South Florida president Betty Castor announced her interest if Graham chooses not to seek re-election, as have U.S. Reps. Peter Deutsch, Alcee Hastings and Allen Boyd, and Miami-Dade Mayor Alex Penelas. Those potential candidates cannot afford to wait much longer before gearing up.
Bob Graham finds himself at a crossroad in his own political career as well as a key figure in his party's success in next year's general election. We believe he can be trusted with that great responsibility.
