Lieberman says he will run even if he loses primary
Sen. Joe Lieberman, D-Connecticut, facing a tough challenge in the Democratic primary, is launching a separate, petition effort to get on the November ballot as a precaution in case he does not win, CNN has learned.
Interesting move. I had heard some rumors, but didn't take them too seriously. I didn't believe that anybody would do that or that the party would tolerate it. But I guess the party insiders are more serious about stopping party outsiders and grass roots types then I thought.
And make no bones, that is a significant part of what is going on here. Lamont's running against Lieberman is a grass roots backed insurgent against the entrenched deal makers. Lieberman is just acting in his own selfinterest, but the rest of the party insiders are more interested in keeping Lamont out.
The way the law in Connecticut is written, anybody can put themselves on the ballot by getting enough petitions. This means he won't have to leave the Democratic party to put himself on the ballot. That point could be important in him squeezing enough Democratic votes out. If he does go this route, the election will hinge on Lieberman playing to the states independents. But given Connecticut's breakdown and how Lieberman supports plays out it could work.
Of course Lieberman could still win the primary. But considering how much taking these steps will reduce his credibility and support among Democrats, he would only be doing if he thought there was a serious chance of Lamont winning.
Jay
