For those who would prefer a different presidential candidate than Hillary

[MoonchildCA]

68. I respectfully disagree.

People rarely announce this early. I think anytime within the first half of next year is sufficient.
The speculation of him running, in the meantime, will give him a platform to discuss issues (which may actually be the only reason he runs anyway.)

He certainly shouldn't switch parties before he runs, that would be showing his hand too soon. Also, announcing too soon would give everyone "not yet running" someone to run against, from both sides. In fact, I'm sure that's why Hillary has not announced yet, and probably won't until next year.

A few months is forever in political terms. Nobody knows what the dynamic will be between the president and the new congress. I think it will help the candidates to have a better idea what the climate will be.

For the politically aware, I also think there is probably some midterm burnout. I think all the candidates can and should wait until next year before making anything official.

Meanwhile, it doesn't hurt to have fun with a little speculation...