And then there were ten?

The New York Times is reporting here that retired General Wesley Clark is about to join the race for the Democratic nomination for President. Clark's entry into the race would likely come after Sept. 15, according to the Times, in part because the 15th is a campaign fundraising disclosure deadline and Clark hasn't raised nearly the funds of Kerry or Dean.

The article comes on the same day that Dean is 21 points ahead of Kerry in New Hampshire. I suspect that Clark's entry into the race will expedite the departure of a few of the candidates, though probably not Sharpton or Mosley Braun, both of whom have absolutely no chance at the nod. Rep. Dennis Kucinich may be the first to bow out, particularly if he is interested in defending his congressional seat. Sen. Bob Graham may also fall out, as he seems to have generated virtually no press and only minimal public support. One would expect any Democrats who jump ship to wait until at least Iowa, and probably South Carolina, though I think it vital to the party's chance in November to clarify its race to two or three main candidates (Kerry, Dean, Clark?).