It is Still a Horse Race

History Favors Kerry, But Geography May Not

John F. Kerry prevailed, Howard Dean survived -- and the Democratic presidential contest between the two New Englanders now moves to a set of southern and border states where many Democrats think John Edwards and Wesley K. Clark may pose new challenges to Kerry's claim on the nomination.

Howard Dean may have a hard time figuring out what happens next after his second-place showing because New Hampshire was supposed to be the springboard that would propel him through more conservative states like Missouri and South Carolina. Yet the grittiness of his comeback fight after the disaster in Iowa was impressive. Dr. Dean also seems to be learning from his mistakes, and improving. He has expanded his message and appears to be finding at least a tentative balance between a flat policy speech and an angry harangue.

Mr. Kerry's ability to win the hearts of Democrats all around the country is not so certain that his strongest opponents should give up now. When the primaries come in from the cold, Mr. Kerry should not be running alone.