Inside the Beltway: Can Richardson Seize the Day?

I spent the morning listening to the A-list Democratic presidential candidates speechify at the Democratic National Committee's winter meeting, and walked away thinking that Bill Richardson better bring his A-game when he speaks tomorrow if he wants to capture the hearts and minds of these activists.

Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton and former Sen. John Edwards each gave strong, well-received speeches. They also looked impeccable, and demonstrated the poise and polish that has vaulted them to the top of the pack.

Hillary just seems so smart and capable. Edwards has the air of a winner, and he can emote on the stump with the best of them. And of course, Obama has that effortless, cerebral cool thing going. What's Richardson's style on the stump? We'll see tomorrow morning when he speaks.

Meanwhile, I was struck by the fact that New Mexico's governor seemed to be the only candidate without a campaign table in the Hilton lobby. Rep. Dennis Kucinich's table was passing out pins and bumper stickers like crazy. Former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack's crew was doling out popcorn (Iowa, get it?) and fliers.

Shouldn't someone from Richardson's camp get over to the Hilton with some salsa or something?