After a discussion between CNC editors and U.S. Rep. Ed Markey, D-Malden, on Thursday about the 2004 democratic primaries and my prediction that Gephardt would win the primaries [Dean and Kerry were picked by others], I have decided to post my thoughts about the process here - and how I came to these conclusions.

* Dick Gephardt will win the democratic nomination sometime in late March/early April 2004.

* Howard Dean will be his vice presidential candidate.

* Ralph Nader will not run as a green.

* The greens will manage to get on 20 or so state ballots with a minor candidate but will retain ballot status in many states.

* The Gephardt/Dean ticket will win the presidency, beating Bush/Cheney 271 to 267 electoral votes.
- posted by Tony @ 7:06 AM