Yes. Unless she makes such big missteps that she seriously damages her reputation, this run is likely to be mostly upside for Bachmann, who intends to retain her House seat though the nomination process.
She will gain attention for the conservative issues she cares about and may solidify her standing as the national face of the tea party movement – making her even more of a force to be reckoned with in Washington.
“I think she wants to be a national leader of the Republican Party for the long term,” says Mr. Schier. Although her bid for a House leadership position failed last time around, her colleagues may not be able to deny her a slot the next time.
