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Spitzer Takes the Helm
A Dead End Job No More?
Giuliani and Bloomberg look to escape the Curse of Gracie Mansion
Political circles are abuzz these days with speculation that either Rudolph Giuliani or Michael Bloomberg—or both—will join the 2008 presidential race. There is every reason to believe each could be formidable, and perhaps even successful.
Except, that is, for a fact of political history that has undercut every New York City mayor with higher ambitions for the last 140 years. King Tut and Tecumseh have actually killed people with their curses, but when it comes to political careers, little has been more universally deadly than a stay in Gracie Mansion.
Going into the race, both the former and current Republican mayors have strong hands to play. Giuliani was spectacularly successful in fighting crime, and helped usher in a rebirth of the city during the 1990s. Bloomberg has proven impervious to most political manipulation, adeptly transferring his corporate management style to the city and helping lead its resurgence following the Sept. 11 attacks. Both were overwhelmingly reelected as mayor.
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