He has a down-home, folksy image, and he carries himself well. Can that survive people knowing he has a house of around 9,000 square feet, or that he can afford a Gulfstream jet?
I gained this insight when I saw his house.
I have a long-standing hobby of being in touch with the local real estate market, and when I typed Simon's name into a search engine and found his address, I couldn't resist checking it out.
It's big. Very big. It looks like you could fit at least three typical homes in it. And it's immaculately maintained, the type of residence you just know has a huge staff making sure it stays that way.
It doesn't make you think of down-home. It makes you think of almost impossible helpings of wealth and power.
I have the impression that this is not an image voters like. They would rather think you have an average suburban place somewhere, instead of your own Gulfstream jet.
I think that's why Simon doesn't want to release his tax returns - and I don't blame him one bit.
Especially since I want him to win.
D
PS If you're curious to see what I mean, yes, I did get a picture; if there's demand, I'll post it when I get home.