While some argue that front-runner status brings with it unbearable pressure and scrutiny, there is no better place for a candidate to be. The nation's political reporters will deny their power -- and may not fully realize the extent of their influence -- but recent history shows that earning the front-runner designation is an overwhelming advantage. As odd as it may seem to say at this absurdly early date -- the first primary is nearly a year away -- it now may be John Kerry's race to lose.
This sounds like a perfect example of one of Dr. Cline's structural biases of the media.
