Is Rudy In?

Rudy Guiliani, the former mayor of New York, has removed some "hedge" phrases from this presidential exploratory filing. He is now, legally, on the same footing as two other GOP probables: U.S. Sen. John McCain of Arizona and former Mass. Gov. Mitt Romney.

Rudy Giuliani, the former New York City mayor who became a national hero for his response to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, suggested Monday that a formal presidential announcement was a matter of when, not if.

"Today we just took another step toward running for president," the Republican said, hours after filing a so-called "statement of candidacy" with the Federal Election Commission, which moved him closer to a full-fledged campaign.

"It's a big step, an important one. Quite honestly, we're probably ahead of schedule," Giuliani told reporters in Long Island while campaigning with a state Senate candidate. "We still have to think about a formal announcement and how to do it, but this is a pretty strong step."

C'mon, Mr. Mayor, America needs you in this race. Run, Rudi, Run!

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