[jraines]

Just those who will make it their business to believe it’s possible (politcal consultants). Exhibit A: Bloomberg campaign

If they were eligible, Schwarzeneggar (years ago) or Musk (now), would have a better shot —- still small —- because it would be a circus. And we have evidence that a circus can get you elected.

[toyg]

Schwarzenegger would be a walk-in, regardless of which party he gets behind him.

There is a parallel reality where Democrats pushed hard to change the eligibility rules during Obama’s second term, selected Ahnold, and continued the Obama legacy of slow-going, moderate social progress. Sadly we are in a darker timeline.

[threatofrain]

Arnold took a political beating from both sides when he failed to accumulate the capital to push any of his ideas through, and the experience appears to have left the governor with no enthusiasm to continue.

[fatbird]

A bit weirdly, Bloomberg is exhibit B; Howard Schultz's attempt a few months earlier was Exhibit A, and about as successful. At some point, those same consultants had to convince Bloomberg he wouldn't be another Schultz.

[mc32]

Honestly both of them just winged it. They were unprepared for debates and when they had answers they were uninspiring, to say the least.

[AQuantized]

Musk was born in South Africa, so isn't eligible for the presidency.

Edit: Must have only skimmed this thread before commenting because the parent mentions this, oops

[Trasmatta]

That's why they said "If they were eligible".