Bloomberg still denying presidential ru

Bloomberg still denying presidential run

Updated: 1/8/2008 7:25 AM
By: Michael Scotto

OKLAHOMA -- Mayor Bloomberg came to Oklahoma with harsh words for Washington.

“People have stopped working together. Government is dysfunctional. There is no congeniality,” Bloomberg said.

The Mayor's presence at a nonpartisan conference brought out hordes of television cameras and reporters to listen to his every word.

“What we want is a government selected on competency,” said Bloomberg.

Some political observers thought Mayor Bloomberg would come close to announcing a third party run for president. That didn't happen.

“I'm not a candidate for president,” stated Bloomberg.

The Mayor tried to keep a low profile, allowing the other participants to speak. The panel included Nebraska Senator Chuck Hagel. He's often mentioned as Bloomberg's potential running mate. The forum was hosted by Former U.S. Senator and current president of the University of Oklahoma David Boren. They had one message for the candidates running for President.

“Hear our pleas, bring us together, bring us together,” said Boren.

That message may be getting through. The results last week in Iowa showed voters want change.

The recent tone in the race could make it harder for Bloomberg to make his case. In fact, David Boren said he didn't get the impression Bloomberg wanted to run.

“I don't think he has the ambition to run for President and I think he hopes against hope that the two parties rise to the occasion,” said Boren. “I don't like three party or four party systems.”

Still, Mayor Bloomberg makes it hard for many to believe that he's not up to something.