The 2008 race is a reminder that political family ties can cut both ways. Yes, a brand name helps with fundraising, staffing, and media attention. But it can also come with unpredictable, uncontrollable baggage. One of the reasons Hillary Clinton is commanding so much more support now is that her tenure at the State Department allowed her to more strongly define a political persona that is distinct from her husband’s.

And if Jeb Bush runs in 2016, his surname will provide him with no free passes; he will have to show how he is different than his brother in as many areas as he can, as often as he can.

Furthermore, it’s not as if Clinton and Bush are unfairly eclipsing other potential candidates. Few other Democrats are being mentioned because few other Democrats are seriously interested in running. Don’t blame Hillary because people like her!