Caution maks Bayh's moves (12/21/06)

Surprised? Not really.

While those of us who have watched Evan Bayh's political career over the past couple of decades have always suspected he wants to be president, his withdrawal from the race for the Democratic nomination was really not a shocker.

Two characteristics have marked Bayh's maneuvering over the years: Caution and calculation.

His caution is almost legendary.

Few governors of either party have been so inclined to put their finger to the wind before taking action. Bold and visionary are two adjectives that could never be applied to his terms as the state's chief executive officer.

In his public utterances as a politician, Bayh has always carefully crafted his remarks. He has always dodged occasions that might prove to be political liabilities in the future.

Local folks remember Bayh's attendance at the announcement of the Tyson Mexican Original plant coming to Portland.

No matter how much he was cajoled, he wouldn't put on a Tyson hat or jacket for a photo opportunity.

It was as if some inner censor were at work, worrying about how such a picture might be used against him in the future. (Think of that famous photo of Calvin Coolidge in an Indian headdress and you'll see what he was worried about.)

That caution has always been paired with calculation as the candidate weighed his next step.

In this case, it's clearly to position himself as an attractive option for the vice presidential nominee.

And if the Democrats are successful in 2008, that would provide Bayh with the cautious and calculated route for his own run for the White House at some future date. - J.R.[[In-content Ad]]