It seems like Giuliani’s position as a political “what if” and “could he really be” for president has now become a “are we ready to get behind”. First the former NY Mayor seems to definitely be in the race. He told Larry King “Yes, I’m running, I think I can make a difference. I believe this country needs leadership.”

Meanwhile it is being reported both that Giuliani is being critical of and being championed by the Bush administration. If the second of those reports is accurate it makes the primary a lot more interesting.

John McCain has spent the last several years pulling himself closer to the Bush admin and their policies. This has been much to the dismay of the moderate wing of the party, of which he always claimed a good deal of ownership. According to that article some of the aides in the Bush admin now see Giuliani as the frontrunner in the campaign and as a candidate they are looking to back.

John McCain, who seemed almost certain to take the frontrunner nod just a month or two ago is now polling behind Giuliani in many indicators. The White House, feelings the pressure itself from scornful poll numbers, will ultimately stay neutral but could send the right people out there to move any campaign forward. It should be interesting to see, in the coming months, where it all ends up.

Meanwhile the Washington Post says Giuliani will seek advice from the FEC about the very large speaking fees he currently commands and has continued to earn since the creation of his exploratory committee. There are rules in place for when a non-public office holder is running and receiving such fees, “events cannot be overtly political, hand out campaign materials etc.” but in the age of the Internet and the endless campaign who constitutes overt political speeches etc. could be a tricky area. It is being reported Giuliani is holding off on receiving his latest speaking fee until it is all worked out.