Chris Koster’s Coalition
As you already know, Chris Koster is making a major announcement today. (The party-switch cat was out of the bag when media pitches were handled by Lis Smith, formerly of Claire McCaskill’s campaign.) After the shock wears off, the biggest question will remain: What makes Chris Koster think he can switch dugouts, throw on a new jersey and butt his way into the Missouri Democratic Party’s starting lineup next November?
Actually, there are a few reasons why Koster might leapfrog life-loyal Dems like Jeff Harris and Margaret Donnelly and win his party’s nod. Koster can expect significant support from the following constituencies:
1.) Union guys. If you don’t know the story of Koster, the Cass County Courthouse and project labor agreements (PLAs), look it up. Sen. Tim Green’s endorsement will go a long way in North St. Louis County, where many white plumbers, steamfitters and pipefitters still reside.
2.) Fans of Rich Koster. Chris’ late father was the conservative lynchpin on my man Martin Duggan’s Donnybrook television show. The elder Koster passed in 1994, but his residual name ID remains today — as do his wealthy friends (think: Ray Hartmann) who will gladly pony up with cash and public support of Rich’s kid.
3.) 18-35-year-old women. Putting aside the vast majority of young women who study candidates’ platforms and vote on the issues (play along), is it reasonable to assume that the single guy (Koster) will trim votes away from the woman candidate (Donnelly) and the married guy (Harris)? I think so.
4.) Black people. Like current Attorney General Jay Nixon, Chris Koster is a tall white man who believes in the death penalty. Unlike Nixon, Koster has no baggage among black leaders. Could community activists accept Koster as Nixon Lite — a palatable (if watered-down) alternative to the full-bodied brew? I think so — especially when you compare Koster to his primary opponents. Witness Koster’s appearance in this priceless video from Antonio French.
I have a feeling Jeff Harris could develop conversational rapport with just about anyone, but can you imagine him attempting one of those complicated handshake/hugs? Handling such a large urban crowd wouldn’t be much easier for the dainty Donnelly, who might find it hard to hug someone while clutching her purse.
5.) People who want to see Jeff Roe post more “candid” pictures of Lis Smith. Oh, like you didn’t look.
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