With only 4 months until votes were cast in the first primaries for the presidential election of 04 retired General Wesley Clark entered the race. He entered the battle field without a campaign manager without funding and honestly… without a hope.

Despite his numerous position papers, strong grassroots campaign, remarkable fundraising and his direct straight shooting demeanor Clark just could not muster the support needed to win him the Democratic nomination. He entered the race too late and he & his supporters paid the price. The momentum and bandwagon appeal the other more established candidates had built was too large of an obstacle for Clark to over come.

Thankfully however, Wes Clark is a smart man and has learned from his prior mistakes.

I think it was clear that I got in too late last time

the retired general and former NATO commander told The Associated Press in an interview on Nov. 28th.

It’s one of several mistakes that if I were to run that I would hope I wouldn’t repeat.

he continued. And indeed its one mistake many of his supports are hoping he doesn’t repeat as well.

“Clarkies” (as they are called online) on the grassroots level and higher up are waiting for an official announcement. While spring is a more traditional time for such a decision many hope that at the very least Clark will announce a Presidential Exploratory Committee that would pave the way to an official candidacy.

Regardless of official announcements or lack there of, one thing is for sure, Clark is gaining support and making headlines. Here are just a few recent stories featuring the biggest missed opportunity of 04 and our best chance for sound leadership in 08.

Clark urges diploymacy, stresses China’s future strength - 11/28/06
MSN/CNN Finally Recognizing Clark as Possible Candidate - 11/28/06
Next Move in Iraq, Americans (& Clark) want a new approach - 11/21/06