ABC News reports on Rep. Michele Bachmann’s (R-Minn.) likely run for the GOP nomination:
“I’m in for 2012 in that I want to be a part of the conversation in making sure that President Obama only serves one term, not two, because I want to make sure that we get someone who’s going to be making the country work again. That’s what I’m in for,” Bachmann said.
While some in the mainstream media may scoff, Rep. Bachmann can raise money, and one can imagine her doing very well in neighboring Iowa (where she is very tight with Rep. Steve King).
Even if she loses, a Bachmanns candidacy would help her raise her profile nationally, as well as build a nationwide fundraising base.
A Bachmann candidacy could also complicate things for former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty. A while back, when I asked him about a possible Bachmann candidacy, he said: Well, it’s a free country. Anyone can run that’s over the age of 35. I have respect for Michele Bachmann. I’ve had a cordial and positive relationship with her.”
It’s also possible that — if Bachmann runs and Sarah Palin doesn’t — Bachmann could begin to overshadow Palin. After all, they occupy a similar niche. One wonders if Bachmann’s candidacy makes it more likely Palin will ultimately decide to get in…