Did Hillary Clinton Unleash Her Most Powerful Campaign Weapon Too Early?

Holy cow!

I just watched a YouTube clip of a newly released political ad, and I'm speechless at its exceptional effectiveness. And I'm flabberghasted that a big-gun ad that powerful is being unleashed so early... fully 8 months before the first Democratic primaries for 2008.

In it, the Hillary for President Campaign Committee unleashes its very biggest gun, Bill, to glorify, soften and praise his wife. And, of course, it works. Brilliantly. The ad captures Bill doing what he does better than anyone else: flatter, praise, cajole, and then appeal for your support.

In the last week, polls have shown Sen. Hillary Clinton opening up a lead over Sen. Barack Obama in the premature race for the 2008 Democratic nomination for the presidency. Late last week, Chris Matthews of MSNBC's Hardball commented that it may soon be impossible for Sen. Clinton's 2008 rivals to overtake her rapidly growing lead.

Indeed, this "Message from President Clinton" ad is exquisitely timed to exploit and expand Hillary's lead, and to blow ALL contenders back into second-rate status. And it could successfully achieve that cherished goal.

But it's also a huge risk by the Clinton campaign camp. It could be too much, too soon. A mistake of impatience. Their biggest gun has already now been used, and the Obama campaign camp has plenty of time to make a fresh-faced comeback. Eight months is eons in political calculations.

Bill and Hillary Clinton have taken a bold, risky move releasing this powerful political ad now. I won't venture a guess about whether or not the risk will ultimately pay off... other than to note that many consider Bill Clinton to be the best political strategist in the U.S. today.

In the meantime, enjoy watching "Message from President Clinton."

Related Reading
Hillary Clinton in 2008 Info Center Hub
Report Cards for Top Democrats in the 2008 Race
Why Campaign 2008 Started Early
Chronicles of the 2008 Race for the White House
New York Times, May 13, 2007: In New Role, Senator Clinton’s Strategist in Chief