Rep. Spencer Bachus, Alabama Republican, echoed that sentiment, mentioning Mr. Riley as a possible Cabinet official, vice presidential or even presidential candidate. “He’s got a Reagan quality,” said Mr. Bachus. “In terms of accomplishments, he’s right there at the top. He’s ran a phenomenally good government in Alabama and would be a real asset coming back here [to Washington].”
Mr. Riley is inherently limited by the fact he doesn’t court the national stage. Rep. Mike D. Rogers, Alabama Republican, who succeeded Mr. Riley in Alabama’s 3rd District House seat, doubts Mr. Riley ever would run for president.
“He’s made his commitment to public service,” said Mr. Rogers. “Now he wants to spend some time with his family and his motorcycle.”
Mr. Riley plans another solo motorcycle ride across America and Canada all the way to Alaska next year. When asked whether he will contemplate a presidential campaign on that trip, Mr. Riley downplayed the idea. Nevertheless, when pushed, he added that he has “never ruled out anything in my life.”
The question now: Will the Republican establishment take notice?
Christian Bourge is a senior editorial writer for The Washington Times.
By Stephen Dinan - The Washington Times
The FBI uses drones for surveillance on U.S. soil, though “in a very, very minimal way,” agency Director Robert Mueller told Congress at an oversight hearing Wednesday.
