Jerry Mitchell – What are Barbour’s chances?

What are Barbour’s chances?

Gov. Haley Barbour clutches powerful playing cards in his possible presidential bid. He charms fellow Republicans, excels at fundraising and possesses an unrivaled Rolodex of political connections.

“He is highly regarded all over the country, and that’s a unique thing for Mississippi,” said Jim Herring, who served as chairman over all the state Republican parties while on the Republican National Committee.

But one card threatens to spoil his hand. Can he overcome the country’s preconceptions and, yes, prejudices of him being a white conservative from Mississippi?

Clarion Ledger
2/26/11