A year ago it appeared, with any luck, John Edwards’ drive for the White House would die a quick death. Today, Edwards’ fortunes soaring. What happened?

Edwards was on Jay Leno the other night and, I have a feeling, he’s stolen a page from Barack Obama’s play book. Obama is an unusual politician. Because of the way he talks. He explains a problem by holding a debate with himself, examining both sides with a curiosity which is – or appears to be – almost entirely unpolitical. At the least, it’s not the kind of rhetoric we usually hear from our candidates for President.

John Edwards has started doing something which is not exactly the same – but which is similar. Imitation can backfire as a cheap reflection of the original, but that is not the case with Edwards. He has adapted so deftly, even though it seems incredible, rather than collapsing like an empty tent, his campaign is off and rolling. In fact, he’s doing so well he’s leading Hilary in some polls in Iowa – which means the fireworks are about to start. Which means Edwards may soon face a tougher test.

John Edwards has been a fortunate candidate. In his races for Senate and President, luck or fortune has spared him the kinds of withering personal attacks many candidates endure. But John Kerry is already sniping at him, and when Hillary focuses the fire of the formidable Clinton ‘PR’ machine on him that will change.

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