what’s left?

Bad show. The one potential candidate I had any hope in, or real respect for.

Same here… I’m truly disappointed in his decision.

If MPs who would’ve voted for Cruddas really want a full range of voices in the debate, they should nominate McDonnell. Even if they don’t vote for him afterwards, they should nominate him or the contest risks being too narrow.

Same here. disappointed I mean. John Cruddas has the makings of an interesting leader. So far the other possible choices are like candidates for manager of a newly opened Tesco.

What chance now of a real debate? You need a candidate who can put the others on the spot over the poor decisions they’ve been party to.

A real shame, was hoping he would at least stand, thorough debate with opinions and options are sorely needed if the contest is going to have the slightest credibility.

McDonnell should run.

Jon Cruddas: http://www.theyworkforyou.com/mp/jon_cruddas/dagenham_and_rainham

John McDonnell: http://www.theyworkforyou.com/mp/john_mcdonnell/hayes_and_harlington

Cruddas’s voting record:

Voted strongly for Labour’s anti-terrorism laws.
Voted very strongly for the Iraq war.
Voted very strongly against an investigation into the Iraq war.
Voted very strongly for introducing foundation hospitals.
Voted moderately for introducing ID cards.
Voted moderately against laws to stop climate change.
Voted very strongly for a stricter asylum system.
Voted very strongly for allowing ministers to intervene in inquests.

How does that make him left-wing? It’s not about what he says or writes, it’s about what he does – and how he votes. The man is a charlatan.

His voting record doesn’t enamour me to him.

John McDonnell on the other hand is a legend.

What a shame.

I have no probs with John McDonnell. His heart is in the right place and he’s a good man. I just think, realistically, he wouldn’t stand a chance as he’s too left wing.

Just look at it, objectively. The whole concept is the political equivalent of the Conservatives fielding Ann Widdecombe as their new leader. A vintage true Tory, yes, but probably 80% of the country would reject her outright.

Shame Cruddas not running. McDonnell doesn’t have a hope of getting the required nominations, let alone becoming leader. Looks like we’re saddled with a choice of Millibands – David, Ed, Steve or Glenn. Come on Balls at least give us some variety!

John McDonnell standing has benefits even though it’s unlikely he will win. MPs and even other candidates who want a full debate, which will be good for the party, should share their nominations. It’s in their interests if they should then be elected leader, to have had a full debate and included all sections of the party, rather than to have alienated people or seemed like they were trying to narrow the debate.

And if McDonnell has no chance of being elected, what have the other candidates got to be scared of?