Today's MOZEN: More Than Money

Michael Bloomberg, The Hill

With former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg firmly committed to running to be the 2020 Democratic nominee for President of the United States, his critics (of which he has his share) are crying "foul". In addition to their concerns over his controversial Stop and Frisk policy which unfairly targeted people of color in the City, they site the extraordinary amount of his own money the billionaire is spending to advertise his campaign (over $400 million).

And, I get it.

No one wants a tainted election where the winner was only assured success by the power of the purse rather than by their strength of character. But, if history has proven anything it is that money alone is not enough to guarantee victory in the election.

Certainly, having a huge war chest gives one significant advantages like the ability to higher the best political operatives and buy enough media to make certain that your message will be heard. And, there within lies the key.

Simply put, if your message does not resonate with voters NO amount of money will buy you the election.

Ross Perot/David J. Phillip AP

In recent years, in addition to Bloomberg, there have been at least 5 other multi-millionaires/billionaires who have vied for the title of President: Ross Perot (1992), Steve Forbes (2000), Mitt Romney/Donald Trump (2016) and Tom Steyer (2020). Of the 5, only Donald Trump was successful in his bid for the Presidency. All but Mr. Trump did not even make it to their perspective conventions. And, Mr. Steyer, currently in the race for the 2020 Democratic nomination, has not risen about 3% in any poll of voters indicating that he is a VERY unlikely candidate to win it now.

So, if money were enough, why is the success rate of these wealthy and powerful men so anemic?

Well, thankfully, it appears that as important as money is in running a campaign, there are MANY other determining factors before a voter makes his or her choice.

George Washington/Painting John Trumbull

Now, this is NOT and endorsement of Michael Bloomberg. Rather, it's a call to reason. Money has indeed been a reality in politics - not only now, but since the inception of this Country. Virtually ALL of the Founding Fathers were men of considerable means (George Washington was said to be worth over $525 million when adjusted for today's standards). So, as much as progressives would like to see money virtually eliminated from modern politics, the reality is much less clear.

So, in the meantime, remember, NO candidate is without flaws. ALL of them have negatives in one form or another. It's just a matter of whose message and plan for success compliments your own. WE have the ultimate power - it's called THE VOTE -USE IT!

F LoBuono