Politics
Is Herman Cain still relevant?
Herman Cain. PHOTO/File
Herman Cain is throwing his weight behind a handful of Republican congressional hopefuls who are intent on advancing the conservative platform he espoused — including his signature “9-9-9” tax plan, campaigning for some of them and endorsing others.
Cain’s emergence on the congressional trail after abandoning his White House bid in December following numerous allegations of sexual improprieties is part of an effort to leave an indelible imprint on the 2012 election and to remain in the spotlight. It’s a role similar to the one former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin embraced in 2010, when she sought to raise her profile by throwing her backing to conservative candidates she labeled “Mama Grizzlies.”
“My sense is that he really wants to continue his message. Despite the fact that he’s no longer in the presidential race, he really wants to continue talking about issues,” said Florida Republican Craig Miller, whose Senate candidacy Cain has endorsed. “He’s trying to influence the debate.”