Martin O’Malley’s presidential candidacy is unquestionably good news for urban Democrats who like Irish rock bands. It may even appeal to a broader audience.
Any Democrat looking for an electable alternative to Hillary Clinton should welcome O’Malley’s candidacy. Before he entered the race Saturday, Clinton’s lone challenger was Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, who does not even consider himself a member of the Democratic Party. O’Malley, the former governor of Maryland and former mayor of Baltimore, is positioning himself to Clinton’s left, giving liberals the chance to vote for someone who would have a fighting chance of getting elected if nominated, which is more than can be said of Sanders.
And it’s not just Democrats looking for a Clinton alternative: Clinton herself can benefit from O’Malley’s campaign. He will take some of the spotlight away from Sanders, a liberal firebrand, fracturing the opposition vote. A vigorous challenge from O’Malley would also help Clinton dispel the criticism her nomination is a virtual coronation, and it could help her clarify her positions.
This is the case even when O’Malley is wrong on the issues — as he is on the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, for example. O’Malley opposes the pact, as does Sanders, while Clinton has been straddling the issue. Ignoring a socialist is one thing. But his presence in the race should make it harder for Clinton to be evasive.
O’Malley is more than a foil, of course. Whether his campaign focuses on criminal justice policies and the broader problem of urban poverty — he tiptoed around each in his announcement speech, delivered in Baltimore — O’Malley can help to put a spotlight on urban issues.
His 15 years as governor and mayor give him more experience as a CEO than any candidate of either party. Policy and personality always trump management expertise in presidential campaigns, which may explain some of Washington’s dysfunction. But having good ideas and being able to see them through are two different things. With any luck, his data-driven approach to governing will lead to greater media attention on how candidates plan to deliver on their promises.
O’Malley faces long odds: It remains to be seen whether he can catch Sanders in the polls, no less Clinton. But win or lose, his campaign can benefit Democratic voters.