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Keller @ Large: Trump A Publicity Stunt?

BOSTON (CBS) - Believe it or not, like it or not, Donald Trump is now the flavor of the month in American politics, or should I say, the curiosity of the month.

I can tell because hardly a day has gone by in the last few weeks when someone did not approach me and ask if the Trump for president pseudo-candidacy was for real.

Listen to Jon's commentary:

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Yes, people are curious about Trump, due, I think, to his near-universal name recognition and his blunt speaking style, which understandably strikes some as a refreshing break from the transparent double-talk that passes for political rhetoric so often.

Trump's personal saga of boom, bust, and recovery surely strikes a chord with many of us; while I am not a fan of his wretched TV show, others are, for reasons that could potentially translate into political success, because if there's one thing many of us would like to say to our political leaders, it's "you're fired."

So, for personal amusement if nothing else, let's take a moment to analyze the potential path of a Trump for president campaign.

I see some problems there.

He claims to be disgusted with the Obama administration's handling of the economy, but it will be interesting to see how he handles questions about his use of high-interest junk bonds to finance real estate purchases, exploitation of local tax-credit and subsidy schemes, and general mastery of the bag of tricks of crony capitalism.

Having once championed universal health care before now opposing the Obama plan, Trump will be expected to outline his own ideas, and just urging folks to play more rounds at the magnificent Trump golf courses likely won't suffice.

But the key question most of the curious have about Trump is this: is he sincere, or is this a cheap publicity stunt.

Reportedly, Trump may announce his decision whether or not to run during an episode of "The Apprentice" during the key May ratings period.

Does that answer your question?

You can listen to Keller At Large on WBZ News Radio every weekday at 7:55 a.m. and 12:25 p.m. You can also watch Jon on WBZ-TV News.

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