Friends from Harvard might comprise a formidable network for fundraising and advising, but in cultivating school ties, a candidate must take care not to appear aloof to the voters at home.

James A. Barnes, a political correspondent for the National Journal magazine in Washington, articulated this potential pitfall.

"There's an important and powerful network that you're exposed to when you've gone to Harvard," Barnes said. "[But] populism is probably better in campaigning than claiming oneself to be a product of the establishment."

"Harvard is considered part of the elite establishment; quite often people think it's out of touch with the views and experiences of most Americans," Barnes added.

Classmates vs. Neighbors

Illustrating the need to connect with constituents, Edwards offered the example of David Boren, a Yale graduate and Rhodes Scholar who attended the University of Oklahoma's law school before winning a seat on the United States Senate.

But aspirants cultivating an "everyman" image must avoid appearing too much like the guy next store.

George F. Will, a syndicated columnist who has taught as a visiting lecturer in the Government Department, suggested another dimension to the challenge of a candidate from Harvard.