Bloomberg News

In today's Washington Post Michael Shear pointed toward the possibility of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg running as an independent candidate for president in 2008. This move would radically change the landscape of 2008 presidential field. Since Bloomberg is a billionaire, he could enter the race far later than other contenders, painting himself as the true alternative. While the Washington Post speculates that he could spend up too 500 million on presidential campaign, he could spend far less and still be rather competitive. With the typical primary season shift to the base of both major parties, Bloomberg could easily capture the middle 60% of Americans who don't view them self as either liberal or conservative. Just like Perot was in 1992, Bloomberg could be a viable alternative to the major party candidates, also he is more appealing because he does not have some of the odd mannerisms that Ross 'The Boss' Perot did. Bloomberg also has real world experience in business and government; governing a city more than twice the size of Oklahoma. While Bloomberg probably won't run it would be interesting to have a viable third option.