Ironically, Pawlenty’s weakness is also his greatest strength. In a field where most candidates come with baggage wrought by long political careers, messy personal lives, and the scrutiny of the national spotlight, Pawlenty has the advantage of entering the race with a clean slate.
“His biggest strength is that he has no glaring weaknesses like other candidates,” says Lichtman. While his contenders will be pressed to defend their character and career flaws, Pawlenty can craft his persona on his own terms.
And, says Schier, he’s no laggard when it comes to governing.
“He’s smart. He’s a very bright man, a quick study, very skilled at governing,” says Schier. “He understands governing strategies and tactics and he’s intelligent and experienced at achieving his goals in governance. Those are two traits that recommend anyone for presidency.”
