Chris Cillizza EXPLAINS the potential political benefits for Rick Santorum and John Thune that could accrue from their recent jabs at Sarah Palin.
An excerpt:
For both Santorum and Thune, going after Palin — whether intentionally, unintentionally or a somewhere in between — is a smart political strategy.
It’s the political equivalent of punching up; anytime a lesser known candidate takes a swing at a better known candidate — and that better known candidate responds — it’s a victory for the little guy.
It’s why long-shot challengers always call for debate against incumbents — and why incumbents almost never agree to them.
But, Palin’s demonstrated willingness to engage almost anyone — literally — who speaks ill of her virtually ensures that other lesser known candidates looking to make a name for themselves in the 2012 field will follow the Santorum/Thune route in the very near future.
