• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, February 12, 2007

Rupert Murdoch's political leanings have been the subject of much debate, from his alleged conservative bent to hosting a fundraiser for Hillary Clinton. Late last week, he offered a frank analysis of the coming presidential race, bluntly stating that he'd like to see former House Speaker Newt Gingrich enter the fray--although he doubts he could win.

In an intriguing juxtaposition--perhaps indicating that Murdoch may be a centrist after all--he referred to The New York Times editorial page as "outrageously biased" with a clear agenda, yet acknowledged his New York Post is firmly right-leaning. But he added he's "not really frightened" of Clinton "in terms of foreign policy, social issues and defense."

Still, he is not supporting her candidacy. The News Corp. CEO spoke at a New York media event, briefly diverging from the business of spots, dots and satellite TV.

He referred to Clinton as "intelligent" but "calculating," a person who would "be subtler than her husband." His fundraising breakfast for her only raised an estimated $50,000 and took place as a result of the urging of his News Corp. cohorts.

"She was very impressive in terms of how she handled issues and sidestepped them," he said, regarding the event.

Murdoch said he looks forward to meeting Barack Obama--admitting he doesn't know enough abut him, although he hears that Obama is impressive. Still, he wants Gingrich to enter the race, even as a long shot, to elevate the debate and inject discussion about frequently avoided issues. He called the ex-House speaker "brilliant" and "the most interesting person out there."

Another Murdoch favorite who hasn't indicated he's interested in the top job is New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg. "You won't get an abler chief executive for the country," Murdoch said.