He was an unknown state senator when he decided to run for the U.S. Senate. He parlayed that run into national prominence, and later became President of the United States.
I'm talking about Barack Obama, but could I also be describing Scott Brown -- who came from obscurity to the greatest political upset in memory yesterday in Massachusetts?
The parallels are eerie. Both are charismatic good-looking men, both are lawyers, both started as outsiders in the party.
The Republican Party is not exactly weighed down with talent for 2012. Tired old faces like Newt Gingrich, Mitt Romney and Rudy Giuliani abound. The party leadership seems frazzled and old. Mitch McConnell looks and talks like an undertaker, Michael Steele is too busy doing book deals. Most Americans don't even want Sarah Palin to run.
Now comes Scott Brown, who provides that electric spark that has been missing on the GOP side. He has one massive drawback, of course: He is pro-choice in a party that has demanded its' presidential candidates be pro-life.
There is something in the water in Massachusetts that makes their politicians national candidates. John F. Kennedy, Ted Kennedy, Mitt Romney, John Kerry, Mike Dukakis, Paul Tsongas -- have all run for President.
Could Scott Brown be on the same path? Is he Obama Version 2, and could he face him in 2012?
This country is now in such a strange place politically that I definitely would not rule it out.
Kelly Fincham / Memo to Scott Brown: New poll shows Americans want immigration reform / Click here
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