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Does Obama pick a Cheney or a Gore?
Lots of VP chatter going on out there and since we are done with primary and caucus nights, this is about as good as it gets these days for political junkies and passionate supporters.
In all the analysis of potential VP choices, one area seems less touched than others. Does Obama pick someone who is lined up to be President in 8 years (a Gore, even if it did not work out or was stolen) or does he pick someone who is almost certain not seek the #1 job or even be replaced if needed after the first term (a Cheney).
There are a number of high profile Gore types out there, too many to list. I think many Democrats, rightly so, are greedy and want 16 years wrapped up into this one election, so the Gore type gets the most net excitement.
That said, a Cheney type would be one way to be Clinton friendly (she is not on the ticket, but the door is then open in 8 years), give the party (and candidate) more flexibility, and it provides for Obama what Cheney provided for Bush eight years ago (these sense for older voters that you can take the risk on him).
The perfect Cheney type is someone who will not be 70 by November (sorry Sam Nunn, you take away the age issue) and who will be at least 70 in 8 years. The top contender would be Joe Biden, both others include John Kerry, Chris Dodd, Dick Gephardt, Bob Kerrey, Wes Clark, General James Jones, etc.
I am torn as to which type interests me most, but I guess the most important types are the winning and governing types.
Comments (3)
A Cheney in the sense that it's Gravitas, Gravitas, and more Gravitas.
General James Jones is my pick.
June 11, 2008 2:55 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm torn between Schweitzer and Biden. I'll bet even money it's one of those two who gets the VP slot.
June 11, 2008 2:59 PM | Reply | Permalink
I definitely say Gravitas also -- someone who could well BE President if needed, who will give that 'reassurance' to voters who are edgy about the new or unfamiliar, but who would not be running in 8 years. Face it, that is the one real advantage McCain has with anyone who would be willing to vote for Obama in the first place -- he's known, he's familiar, tested, knows his way around, likeable.
Joe Biden (who I think would be the best match-up in every way) and John Kerry head and shoulders above the rest (*Lots* of people voted for Kerry and lots more wished they had!) Both good campaigners - both totally vetted - both likeable - both experienced in *getting things done in Washington* which is always a critical need for anyone new to that scene. (One reason Gore was so good for Clinton, LBJ so good for JFK)
This is a helpful way to start thinking about the many possibilities - thank you, Grant. I just wish the category I chose wasn't 'a Cheyney' (ugh).
June 11, 2008 5:09 PM | Reply | Permalink
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