Candidate filing for statewide Missouri offices is in a light period. Most candidates file in the first few days or in the last few days. That is when they can be assured the most press coverage, or “earned media” in political speak. But not all candidates want the publicity.
Enter Charles Wheeler, newly filed candidate for State Treasurer. Wheeler, a former coroner, Kansas City Mayor and State Senator filed in a press vacuum yesterday morning. A Google news search shows all of one article regarding the filing. The KC Star has an online article, but no mention in the print edition that we could find.
Wheeler can’t possibly believe he can win statewide office, so why file? When asked his reason for running he said, “I like politics.” That’s not exactly the smartest or most noble reason to file for an important office.
The Source hopes Wheeler is smart enough to hire a driver to take him through the thousands of miles of campaign trips lying ahead of him. As we have previously reported, Wheeler has a history of traffic accidents, including one during his last attempt at politics.
The only question left unanswered is if Kay Barnes will endorse Wheeler for Treasurer like she did when he lost the Jackson County Executive race in a landslide. We bet Wheeler hopes not.
Who's behind this campaign? Last time Katherine Shields put him out there for her own reasons. Who wants a shadow office holder this time? Shields? I hope not.
Posted by: I smell a rat | March 18, 2008 at 10:33 AM