Let George Do It

Just in case you haven’t heard: May 28 is the date that George Pataki will announce whether he’s running for the Republican presidential nomination.

Yes! George Pataki. Of New York. How can you not remember? He was governor for 12 years, for heaven’s sake.

Actually, I can understand how it slipped your mind. In 1999, when Pataki was still in office and much more famous than he is today, he went to New Hampshire to feel out his presidential prospects, and I remember having an argument with a cabdriver in Manchester who was sure that the governor of New York was Rudy Giuliani.

This is the season when America grows its crop of presidential candidates, and even if the names are improbable, attention must be paid.

While the Democratic side has not been particularly fertile, the Republican contenders are multiplying like gerbils. Six hats are already in the ring. On May 27, Rick (Remember Me?) Santorum will tell us where his metaphorical headwear is going. A coy tweet from Texas reveals that Mr. and Mrs. Rick Perry “have been discussing the future of this great country and how our family can play a role,” and promises “a special announcement” on June 4.

Donald Trump claims he’ll have some exciting news in June, too. It’s been a hard couple of weeks for Republicans, but the future is filled with cheer. No reason worrying about Jeb Bush cratering when you have Rick Santorum, Rick Perry, Donald Trump and George Pataki to look forward to.  READ MORE