Like a bride getting ready for her wedding day, 2008 presidential hopefuls may be gearing up for their big day prematurely.

Still 21 months away, all this early action and committee forming may seem out of place, but these tactics could be essential for recognition and fundraising.

“Because of the enormous amount of money that serious presidential candidates must raise, and because of the number of states that are moving their primaries and caucuses earlier in the year, it is essential for presidential candidates to announce so early,” said Matthew Streb, an associate political science professor.

Another issue, the large number of candidates who have announced intentions, is to be expected, Streb said.

“Since there is not an incumbent running for president, or, for that matter, an incumbent vice president running for president, it is not the least bit surprising that so many candidates have thrown their hats into the ring,” Streb said.

Raising the money needed for a competitive campaign could prove difficult for many candidates. The playing field could narrow quickly, and long before the primaries.

“Several will no doubt drop out before the Iowa caucus because of their inability to gain traction and raise money,” Streb said. “Others will drop out shortly after Iowa. It will become a two- or three-person race on both sides very quickly. I wouldn’t be surprised if we didn’t know who the two nominees will be by February 2008.”

Campaigning this early in the game may cause voters to become irritated with the election before it even takes place.

“When starting this early, there’s voter fatigue, and more time to spend money, which means they have to raise more money,” said State Rep. Bob Pritchard (R-70th). “In Illinois, we’ve seen political corruption, as candidates have to raise lots of money. I’ve heard presidential candidates now have to raise about $1 billion; it’s ludicrous.”

Streb agreed that early campaigning could have its pitfalls.

“Starting the presidential cycle so early can be good because it allows people plenty of time to learn about the candidates. Ultimately, though, it is a bad thing. People will be sick of the race before the first voting even takes place.”

Kevin Chambliss, vice president of the NIU College Democrats, feels the early start in campaigning is more advantageous for Democrats than Republicans.

“Starting this early is good because it keeps up the momentum from the 2006 midterm election,” Chambliss said. “People are excited about what’s going on in the country, and politicians want to ride that out.”