Dreamer on a Caffeine Jag

I’VE sat here now for, I don’t know, a good 45 minutes and you haven’t seen me jump around,” says Rep. John Kasich (R., Ohio), tapping his desk impatiently. This modest boast is his way of expressing irritation with claims that he’s hyperactive. Every profile quotes an Ohio colleague who dreads flying home with him when weary. A Northeastern Republican says, “He gives the impression of a guy who should ease up on the caffeine.” Kasich’s defense: “If you don’t have energy, you can’t move a mountain.”

Kasich’s energy has made him one of his party’s most sought-after speakers. He infects gatherings-of Republicans, Christian conservatives, Perotistas—with enthusiasm. Their enthusiasm might in turn lead him to run for President in 2000.

About the Author

Ramesh Ponnuru

Ramesh Ponnuru is the editor of National Review, a columnist for the Washington Post, and a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute.

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John Kasich

Presidential Election

I’VE sat here now for, I don’t know, a good 45 minutes and you haven’t seen me jump around,” says Rep. John Kasich (R., Ohio), tapping his desk impatiently. This modest boast is his way of expressing irritation with claims that he’s hyperactive. Every profile quotes an Ohio colleague who dreads flying home with him when weary. A Northeastern Republican says, “He gives the impression of a guy who should ease up on the caffeine.” Kasich’s defense: “If you don’t have energy, you can’t move a mountain.”

Kasich’s energy has made him one of his party’s most sought-after speakers. He infects gatherings-of Republicans, Christian conservatives, Perotistas—with enthusiasm. Their enthusiasm might in turn lead him to run for President in 2000.