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For those placing bets, he gave three clues:
USA Today, 02:44 PM/ET, August 21, 2008:
Barack Obama told USA TODAY this afternoon that "yes," he has made up his mind about whom his running mate will be -- but he would not reveal the name or just when he will tell the nation about his choice....
Obama said he wanted somebody who is "prepared to be president" and who will be "a partner with me in strengthening this economy for the middle class and working families."
He said he was looking for not just a partner but a sparring partner. "I want somebody who's independent, somebody who can push against my preconceived notions and challenge me so we have got a robust debate in the White House.".....
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Sounds like a governor to me, and certainly not a "foreign policy" pick.
David's thread below suggests it is Brian Schweitzer. That would explain the midwest/west emphasis of the coming travel schedule.
I think Clinton could be said to meet this criteria, but I think if he picked her he would plan to go to some bigger states after the announcement, especially Ohio, and maybe NH for symbolic reasons. Instead, he is going nowhere east.
August 21, 2008 5:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm with David and Joe Pettit with a hunch it's Schweitzer.
August 21, 2008 5:08 PM | Reply | Permalink
Please let it be him.
August 22, 2008 11:24 AM | Reply | Permalink
Schweitzer would be weird. From his profile in David Sirota's "The Uprising" I just cannot see him in a national role. He is great for Montana, but too much of a hick for the national scene.
August 22, 2008 11:43 AM | Reply | Permalink
How much better can you get as a personality contrast than having the VP be a 'hick'. He can do Red Neck Translation Services (RNTS) for the campaign on policy issues. Obama is desperatly in need of RNTS.
August 22, 2008 1:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Sure does. Not clear who is going to find the argument that Obama --famous author wealthy man living in a mansion Harvard Law and graduate of a prestigious prep school in Hawaii and having spent a significant portion of his youth in Indonesia -- is a regular guy just like you. At least he knows what things cost and does some of his own shopping -- anybody bought arugula in Iowa lately?
August 22, 2008 3:19 PM | Reply | Permalink
Sydney the IVth, is that you?
August 22, 2008 5:03 PM | Reply | Permalink
"That would explain the midwest/west emphasis of the coming travel schedule."
Of course the route from Springfield to Denver just happens to go through the Midwest and West.
August 21, 2008 5:09 PM | Reply | Permalink
Yes, but only for the wagon train portion of Obama's campaign. Those who travel by plane could visit any state they wanted.
August 21, 2008 5:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
Correct, but the idea is for Obama and his VP pick to do a tour.
The pick will not be the governor of Montana.
My WAG is Clark.
Everyone should keep in mind that any "hints" are calculated.
August 21, 2008 5:22 PM | Reply | Permalink
My guess is that Obama is way to smart to pick some one who is as poor at politics as Gen Clark.
August 22, 2008 11:26 AM | Reply | Permalink
Th route also goes through Bayh and the governor of Kansas territory.
August 21, 2008 5:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
Hillary :)
August 21, 2008 5:12 PM | Reply | Permalink
Totally. ;-)
August 21, 2008 5:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'd much prefer her to some who are supposedly on the short list. I would much prefer Hillary to Biden, for example. Much!!!!!!!
August 21, 2008 8:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
YAY Tena :) {fistbump}
I actually would have been content with a Clark or a Biden, but neither of them or anyone else puts as many votes in play and as much energy as Hillary. Very hopeful :)
August 21, 2008 8:57 PM | Reply | Permalink
Fist bump...isn't that a communist thing?
August 21, 2008 9:27 PM | Reply | Permalink
The fistbump is terrorist or communist - I forget. Definitely somewhere in the axis of evil. Join the fun! {fistbump}
August 21, 2008 10:08 PM | Reply | Permalink
{fistbump!}
August 21, 2008 10:18 PM | Reply | Permalink
You mean {terroristfistjab} right?
August 22, 2008 9:38 AM | Reply | Permalink
You {terroristfistjab}'d so you are one of us now. Welcome to the NSA watchlist, Frogleg :) The official Obamacan registration forms are in the mail.
August 22, 2008 10:41 AM | Reply | Permalink
Oh right! We're all terrorists now...
August 22, 2008 2:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
Definitely terrorist.
By the way, good-lookin', I'm thinking this clue leads to Biden. Schweitzer in second, Bayh in third. (Not that we'd have any way of measuring that, but hey.) I actually wouldn't mind him picking your girl as much as I would have before, strangely enough - but the Politico story about her not having been vetted at all about seals the deal. She ain't the one.
If I had my druthers, and there'd be no political consequences whatsoever, I'd love for him to pick Sebelius or Schweitzer. Bayh must mean "yawn" in another language, and though I like Biden overall, I dread the replay of the comment he made about Obama.
August 22, 2008 3:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
You called it. I don't mind Biden, but he does give the GOP ammunition with some of his gaffes. They are going to have a field day with his blunders and have already started, bt he's a good attacker and can play interference for Obama. I would have been irritated with someone like a Bayh, Kaine or Webb, so not as bad as it could be. I am seriously disappointed it's not my girl, Hill but she'll be fine. It's winning in November I'm most worried about.
August 23, 2008 9:10 AM | Reply | Permalink
Kaine. Though he seems sorta like a "Obama kiss ass", Sen Clinton would definitely challenge him. Schweitzer is a dark horse.
August 21, 2008 5:17 PM | Reply | Permalink
You named 3. He's only allowed to have 1.
August 21, 2008 5:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
Maybe it's a timeshare VP?
August 22, 2008 6:10 AM | Reply | Permalink
It's not likely to be Kaine. Mark Warner would not have been put on the program as a speaker if that's the way Obama were leaning.
August 22, 2008 4:57 PM | Reply | Permalink
Hmm, gotta admit it sounds like it could be Hillary 2.0, but also Biden fits. He's from modest background, strong ties to unions, not a kiss-ass, has independent views. Or Barbara Mikulski of MD, my long time favorite dark horse. Blue color, tough, funny, smart, liberal, wins elections.
August 21, 2008 5:52 PM | Reply | Permalink
You think someone like Mikulski fits the "ready to be president" line? I take that line to suggest someone who has played or at least attempted the presidential politics game, who has gotten their head around what it actually takes to want to do that.
August 21, 2008 6:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
No way it's Mikulski.
August 21, 2008 7:45 PM | Reply | Permalink
Mikulski actually does NOT qualify for inclusion on www.thingsyoungerthanmccain.com, which would probably exclude her immediately. :-)
August 22, 2008 5:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
its unfortunate and unfair, but i don't thin mikulski will ever be a candidate for national office. well, at least not for a very very long time...
August 21, 2008 10:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
O please - how many electoral votes does Delaware have? They all belong to Obama anyway - what votes could Biden bring?
And what middle class/working class Biden? Are you kidding? Delaware is American Corporate Central and Biden is the senator from the Bank of America.
August 21, 2008 8:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
The electoral votes that Biden could bring are all the 49/50 red/blue states that are looking for reassurance (of experience) when they see a relatively young person. There is a very large electorate out there, and some of them think that a young person's intelligence (regardless of how superior his intelligence is) is suspect.
They would rather go to the old doctor who does things the "old fashioned way" even though the younger doctor might save their lives. Biden offers both the years of experience and a willingness to look ahead. He also is not afflicted with a fear of stating the truth. OK. He occasionally spouts off and makes mistakes. I think he will be very aware of this going forward.
The only other winner is Wes Clark, but Obama has already repudiated Clark's VERY TRUE statements about McCain's lack of qualifications for the presidency.
August 21, 2008 8:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
Besides, Biden gets a lot of play in the Philadelphia market and all those liberal-Republican suburbs.
August 21, 2008 11:32 PM | Reply | Permalink
Born in Scranton, PA and lived there for 10 years, unlike Clinton's summer visits.
Rides the train to work through MD, a regular Joe.
Son is Army JAG Captain in the Guard, set to be deployed in October, so he has skin in the war.
Another Fire Sign like Obama, but not a Leo.
August 22, 2008 3:59 AM | Reply | Permalink
Biden, i hope. first choice was Clark.
Clinton is still having trouble--Bill was at an energy conference in Las Vegas saying that McCain was also progressive on energy (not), Hill's bro was at a McCain rally, she's still calling him her opponent, etc. just seems not to be a good fit right now.
August 22, 2008 2:51 AM | Reply | Permalink
Yes, middle-class, working-class Biden. Read David Brooks's column in todays NY Times. And as others here point out, he still has ties to Scranton, PA, where he has a lot of family, and where he is regarded as a home town boy.
August 22, 2008 5:11 PM | Reply | Permalink
"Blue color"? Hmmmm. So -- is the campaign theme song going to be Fats Waller's "Black and Blue"? ;-)
August 22, 2008 5:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
The one thing I can't figure out about all of this is why Obama has not milked the news cycle more with his announcement. If we all know he will be with the running mate on Sat, why wait until Friday, as it now seems, to announce? It just does not make sense.
Thus, one quick question. Obama was in VA for a 4:00 event today. What is he doing tonight? Could he be going for a Thursday evening news and all day Friday news cycle? Note: Clinton is in FL, not a bad state to announce in, and a quick plane ride down the coast.
I'm thinking it will be announced before 10:00 pm tonight.
August 21, 2008 5:53 PM | Reply | Permalink
By announcing the VP choice late, Obama restricts the ability of McCain to fundraise off a controversial choice. McCain only has until his convention to raise funds for the primary, after that his hands are tied. This might be relevant.
August 22, 2008 3:42 AM | Reply | Permalink
not milking it ???
while mcsame is shooting off toes at a record rate ???
mcsame is stumbling around like mrmagoo, trying to explain why he doesn't know how many mcmansions he owns
and Obama should change the subject for him ???
when the spotlight is on mcsame in "stupid" mode, DON'T TOUCH THE FUCKING SPOTLIGHT, PAL
the cameras are rolling, repuglitards are cringing
leave gramps mcsame alone out there
he's doin jus fine ...
why throw him so rope ???
August 22, 2008 3:55 AM | Reply | Permalink
Because McCain handed them a great gaffe to hook to the populist message.
I Count Thirteen Houses; Trad Med puts it at Seven.
Uses POW as the excuse yet again, becoming like Noun.Verb.9-11 Guiliani.
Don't know how many sugar momma bought?
Spends more on household staff than his Senate salary?
August 22, 2008 4:07 AM | Reply | Permalink
After seeing you make this assertion in multiple threads, I'd have to conclude that you're either walled up in a Faraday Cage with no signal or simply missing the cycle in some sort of critical fashion.
Veep speculation has been wall-to-wall across all media for the last two weeks. Why on earth would a savvy media operation look to break a naturally occurring chatter cycle when it's the speculation that's driving it?
A 2.0 campaign narrative will be unveiled tomorrow - letting this speculation roll unabated will simply ensure more eyes on the rollout that would have been there had there been some sort of certainty ahead of the event. It's Media 101.
August 22, 2008 9:04 AM | Reply | Permalink
than would have been there - pardons.
August 22, 2008 9:12 AM | Reply | Permalink
TrollCritic et. al. Sorry, I just don't agree. Making fun of McCain on the houses is fun, but it does not create a message. Announcing the running mate and giving the rationale for it would. Sen. Obama is still in reaction mode, the VP discussion would allow him to make a constructive turn. Also, he could still make fun of the houses AND pump his VP choice at the same time. He could could contrast McCain's stumbles with his substantive message.
I confess I find that your media advice seems designed for shallow rather than substantive politics. But maybe that's because I still haven't been able to be entirely Buddha when folks suggest I'm an idiot.
August 22, 2008 3:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm not a betting person, but I posted this cause I saw it in the story and thought it might help those who are. :)
That said, I get the strong feeling that clue #2 should be taken with a grain of salt, because that that's the talking point he's supposed to be pounding any time he saying something that could get media dissemination, i.e., I'm sure he started his day with a reminder from a top aide: remember to get an economy soundbite in there every chance you get. I think that should be taken as applying to all the possible candidates and is not specific.
August 21, 2008 6:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
sheesh--'scuse my lack of proofreading in the above please.
August 21, 2008 6:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
So who do you think it is?
August 21, 2008 7:02 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ever since Bill Clinton picked another Southerner as a running mate, and won, I think there's too many variables to bet smart. That's why the clues intrigued me, because they narrowed it down from "everyone", and I thought people with better skills at figuring odds might be able to do something with them.
August 22, 2008 2:29 PM | Reply | Permalink
Joe Biden!
August 21, 2008 7:06 PM | Reply | Permalink
No it won't be Biden.
I already posted this above, but think: what votes does Biden bring with him? Delaware has how many electoral votes? And aren't they Obama's already?
Where does Biden get all this supposed "experience?" He's another senator.
Not Biden, I really really don't want him. I'd rather have Hillary than Biden any day.
August 21, 2008 8:09 PM | Reply | Permalink
wow. i guess this is a great example of intelligent people disagreeing.
I think Biden is perfect for thejob.
He's doesn't bring votes, but obama said he's more interested in someone who can help him govern than someone who might carry a state...
and he's chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee. And he is regarded as an "expert" for whatever thats worth...
And he's a great attack dog. He's not afraid to get in your face. Just see "noun, verb, 9/11".
August 21, 2008 9:16 PM | Reply | Permalink
David Brooks agrees with you
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/08/22/opinion/22brooks.html
That's a red flag if ever there was one.
August 22, 2008 4:14 AM | Reply | Permalink
i heard some pundit say, Delaware is right next to PA, plus Biden is popular with "working class" Dems, plus lots of national security experience and working within the Senate.
August 22, 2008 2:54 AM | Reply | Permalink
I think it's wrong to say that Biden doesn't help bring votes. Seniors are the critical vote where Obama significantly underperforms McCain, and many of them are undecided. By picking a 65-year-old candidate with more than 30 years in office, Obama's pick should resonate well with seniors in Florida and elsewhere.
August 22, 2008 3:45 AM | Reply | Permalink
Or at least some seniors in Delaware. :-)
August 22, 2008 7:21 AM | Reply | Permalink
Not only is Delaware right next to PA, but Biden himself is originally from Scranton and still has lots of family there. His ties to that state are quite strong, and it is a key swing state.
August 22, 2008 5:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'd rather have anybody other than Hillary, except Lieberman.
August 22, 2008 2:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
Since we are dealing in pure speculation:
My very long shot guess: Governor Jim Doyle of Wisconsin.
August 21, 2008 7:23 PM | Reply | Permalink
No chance whatsoever.
August 21, 2008 9:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ha!
August 21, 2008 10:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
Biden -
Clue #4. He bought the journalists that are staking out his driveway a dozen bagels and coffee yesterday. But he forgot the coffee cups.
August 21, 2008 7:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
When they staked out his home he told the reporters "It's not me", or so it was reported (which means it must be true, ahem).
Of course, that is a non-denial denial to use the old Watergate-era terminology. He can always say the remark wasn't intended to refer to whether he was the VP nominee. Which would be too coy, I think. Or it could be just your basic politicians' lie.
August 21, 2008 7:48 PM | Reply | Permalink
I thought his comment that he didn't want someone driven by ego precluded Biden.
(I find it interesting that all the media speculation about Biden ignores the fact that he himself said he hasn't been vetted, wasn't asked for documents.)
I suspect his saying he wanted someone who would challenge his positions was setting up the conditions to explain away his choice of Bayh. (Given the Iraq war support.)
I so hope it isn't Bayh. He's SO wishy washy. An attack dog is needed.
August 21, 2008 7:57 PM | Reply | Permalink
No, no, no!
Biden's the guy.
"He's already prepared a 50,000-word acceptance speech... ;-)
August 22, 2008 3:47 AM | Reply | Permalink
...and he's gonna read it real slow tonight...
August 22, 2008 11:49 AM | Reply | Permalink
"Good dump."
August 22, 2008 9:59 AM | Reply | Permalink
I was still clinging to Dodd until they went full bore with the Seven Houses of McGoo attack.
Articulate. 272 years of experience. Foreign and domestic policy cred out the yin yang. Excellent attack dog. Gigantic head of white hair to lend that look of "experience" to Obama's mere 47 years. Takes no shit from the fearmongers. He would have been an excellent choice, indeed.
Damn you, Countrywide, damn you all to hell.
August 21, 2008 8:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
yeah but now that edwards is out, how great would dodd be at the Justice Department?
Seriously. I think he's perfect for AG. He's a bulldog when it comes to the constitution and the law.
August 21, 2008 9:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
Not Biden!!!!!!!!
Aaargh, I give up.
August 21, 2008 8:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
yeah, we really believe that:
you ???
give up ???
never
August 22, 2008 4:03 AM | Reply | Permalink
I'm clinging to the hope that it's Schweitzer. You never know.
Though, those clues certainly made me think it could be Clinton. That scared me. I don't want Clinton. I would accept her, but I don't want her.
Anyway, we shall see.
August 21, 2008 8:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
actually, it could be anyone who voted for the iraq war. obama seems to be saying, disagreement is not a bad thing in the white house and that his veep pick doesn't necessarily have to be 100% in line with him on every single issue.
that's my take, anyway.
August 21, 2008 8:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
I disagree on the Iraq war direction. I think Obama is saying he wants someone who will have the guts to disagree with him. To suggest that voting for the Iraq war is something that he would want someone to go to the mat on just undermines everything he has been saying on the war and takes away one of his strongest foreign policy cards.
August 21, 2008 8:42 PM | Reply | Permalink
I want the VP Nom to be anyone upon which I can say... YES... with my teeth tightly clenched together.
I can fall in love with just about anyone but want that person to "seal the deal" with respect to where we have opportunities.
H
OBAMA 08 12
P
E
got hope ?
August 21, 2008 8:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
There has been some interesting movement on the Intrade boards tonight. Schweitzer's sell price had rocketed from 5.0 to 14.9.
Once the Billings news makes the mainstream rounds and more folks start connecting the dots his price will increase and his stock will hardly be worth the investment.
I backed the wrong horse. My Mark Warner stock is now worth less than a rusty buffalo nickel. I was convinced Mark Warner and Barack Obama had this buttoned down in Oct 06, but Hilliary felt entitled and her mob now is now an unpredictable hydra-monster lurking beneath the surface. I don't think Warner fancied being the incumbent having to slay it eight years from now.
But enough of all that.
I am feeling *so* excited about the schedule signs pointing to Schweitzer.
http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/2008/08/the-schedule-suggests-it-brian.php
The very prospect of Obama-Schweitzer has lifted the gloom I was feeling with Bayh, Biden and Kaine, which is why perhaps those three were floated out there.
Now this is what is what I'm talking about? Check out our new VP out on the ranch.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_sf3A9bbpU
Oh and btw...TEXAS is back in play.
August 21, 2008 8:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm still thinking Sebelius. Of course, let's be honest here, these three clues are vague enough to describe literally anybody he might seriously consider.
August 21, 2008 9:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
He gave a fourth clue. CNN is reporting that,
I don't know how reliable it is, but it definitely makes one wonder. And it certainly points to a candidate who ISN'T part of the establishment. So, despite reports that Biden and Bayh are still in, it's looking more and more doubtful.
I think Clinton is definitely out if this source is reliable.
But... Really, we'll see. I don't know who the hell it'll be. Still holding out for Schweitzer.
http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2008/08/21/source-obama-was-hung-up-on-change-vs-experience/
August 21, 2008 9:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
that really doesn't tell us anything we didn't already know.
I am surprised though, that EVAN BAYH is and has been a serious contender for this. i really do not see his appeal at all.
August 21, 2008 9:54 PM | Reply | Permalink
Whether we suspected that's what he was thinking or not, no statement was ever really made on it.
Until now I've never heard anything about Obama leaning towards keeping his message, especially with some of the potentials that have been thrown around.
August 21, 2008 10:07 PM | Reply | Permalink
female, rich, loved, powerful....OPRAH
August 21, 2008 10:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
....it's getting close.....text messaging and cell calls are most favorable between the hours of 8 and 10 p.m. Friday evening is the projected announcement to Obama supporters and he'll roll out the red carpet for his V.P. Saturday morning in front of the state Capitol in Illinois where he once stood to announce his own Presidential aspirations over a year and a half ago.
I will stick by my original thought and prediction of Sen Evan Bayh.
August 21, 2008 10:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
I've cracked the code.
The message we are hearing from Obama is that the person he chooses is going to show that he is not afraid of being challenged by an independent thinker. He also clearly wants someone who is going to make people go "Wow! I didn't see that coming!" That suggests to me that he is going to choose someone who has criticized him very vigourously in the past; someone close to an enemy, with real chutzpah, who will challenge him when he is about to make a mistake.
And he said his pick will "complement" him.
Here's the perfect pick, then:
Geraldine Ferraro.
This sends precisely the message Obama wants to send, and to precisely the groups he most wants to send it to. It says that he is a a young black man who is not afraid to take advice from an older, brassy white woman, the group Obama is having the most trouble with, even an older white woman who accused him of playing the race card. It shows he is not spiteful and vindictive. It would really help in a big way to heal the division that was opened up during the primary campaign. And Ferraro would be great at getting in taking on McCain in a hardball way, from a position as a generational peer, without the need to show a lot of phony deference. And Ferraro doesn't require the Obama supporters to swallow Hillary, who they worked actively to defeat. She's older than Hillary, which is an electoral plus in this race, a veritable "elder stateswoman" now, and she has strong progressive credentials.
Obama mentioned the pick would be "complementary", and Ferraro is almost the exact complement to Obama: older/younger, female/male, white/black.
I predict the Hillary folks will love it! They won't demonstrate or agitate for Hillary, and many supers will feel free to switch their votes to Obama to give him a big nomination total. Democratic hearts will melt when they see them with hands raised together on stage. The convention is going to be great!
August 21, 2008 10:24 PM | Reply | Permalink
LOL!
August 21, 2008 10:34 PM | Reply | Permalink
I'm not kidding. I mean it. It's perfect.
August 21, 2008 10:37 PM | Reply | Permalink
Ferraro also has a strong rep of being a champion of working Americans and families, the other part of Obama's "clues". She's the kind of old school, unabashed friend of labor and the working class that would really help with the idea that Obama is a bit too academic, and not in touch with working families and their needs. This election is going to be about the economy and hard times for ordinary Americans. The ticket needs a Lion of Labor.
August 21, 2008 10:58 PM | Reply | Permalink
At first it was LOL, but now, you're scaring me.
August 21, 2008 11:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
Barry & Gerry '08!
August 22, 2008 1:17 AM | Reply | Permalink
I don't think he will pick someone who has voted for the war. That would ruled out Clinton, and Biden...
August 21, 2008 11:13 PM | Reply | Permalink
DWS
August 21, 2008 11:26 PM | Reply | Permalink
Reporting for duty!
August 22, 2008 12:20 AM | Reply | Permalink
No.
In fact...HELL NO.
:-)
August 22, 2008 5:45 PM | Reply | Permalink
He should pick John Lewis!!
That would put McCain in the impossible position of saying anything negative about a man, he earlier called one of his would-be mentors!!
August 21, 2008 11:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
Toby Keith
August 21, 2008 11:35 PM | Reply | Permalink
For what it's worth, and what it says about this county, it probably would be a winning ticket. I still haven't quite accepted the fact that he's a democrat, and is praising Obama. Patriotism makes people sing stange things I suppose.
August 21, 2008 11:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
I know. That had to be the weirdest thing I'd seen this election season, which is saying a lot.
I was joking of course, but I have to say in all seriousness and with apologies to Dan K, I think I might actually prefer him to Geraldine Ferraro.
August 21, 2008 11:46 PM | Reply | Permalink
toby keith praised obama?
August 22, 2008 3:02 AM | Reply | Permalink
He certainly did.
August 22, 2008 6:26 AM | Reply | Permalink
Based on nothing but intuition, he's going to pick a Governor, so it is Kaine, Schweitzer, or Sebelius. I'll be okay all three, but am leaning to Schweitzer.
August 21, 2008 11:44 PM | Reply | Permalink
Feingold
August 22, 2008 12:55 AM | Reply | Permalink
Evan Bayh....white, male, good looking, somewhat wishy washy, John Edwards-ish. Nay
August 22, 2008 12:58 AM | Reply | Permalink
It's taking so long for Obama to announce his choice because it has taken him long to make the choice.
His heart wants Kaine or Biden or anybody but intellectually he's coming to terms with the FACT that it has to be Hillary
Obama is slip sliding away in the polls and Kaine/Biden ain't gonna pop him back up.
August 22, 2008 1:09 AM | Reply | Permalink
I think it will be Schweitzer. He brought change to his state. He's tough and he is smart.
I like Schweitzer.
It would be a good pick for Obama. IMHO
August 22, 2008 1:21 AM | Reply | Permalink
Another possible clue: The Democratic Convention theme on Thursday night (VP night) is "Securing America's Future". Wes Clark's website is called SecuringAmerica.com. Tell your Ma, tell your Pa, gonna take you back to Arkansas...
August 22, 2008 1:23 AM | Reply | Permalink
ten bucks on Bill Richardson
what did I win ???
August 22, 2008 4:08 AM | Reply | Permalink
You won a $10 receipt and not much else... ;-)
August 22, 2008 11:13 AM | Reply | Permalink
The "clues" offer nothing: it will be a person.
Schweitzer herding out on his ranch would get the good-ole-boy curmudgeons ("Ah jest don't trust 'im!") to give a second look. Whiny seniors might take note as well; some anyhows. Sure undermines the not-one-of-us meme.
If it's star power he's looking for, it's Hillary, Biden (sorry Tena), and maybe Sebelius. Kaine brings Va. Biden will speak electrifying truth to Swift Boating slimebucket cowards, and Hillary brings many minuses and many pluses.
August 22, 2008 4:11 AM | Reply | Permalink
Don't know what star power Sebelius brings to the table. Other than political junkies, who has heard of her? Also, her only national exposure was in the Dem response to a SOTU speech and it was a snoozefest. She is a good person and has done good things in Kansas, but is she ready to be president??? Probably would also piss off all of the HRC fans.
August 22, 2008 3:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
P.S. I guess the Rush Limbaugh's of the world are lying awake at night hoping to dear heaven it will somehow be their dream-come-true, HRC.
August 22, 2008 4:30 AM | Reply | Permalink
P.P.S. Huff Post says bet on Biden... That matches Howard Fineman, of course...
August 22, 2008 4:48 AM | Reply | Permalink
If we're going to take the whole "challenge me" thing seriously, take him at his word that he genuinely means this... then of all those talked about the last few weeks it must be Clinton, Biden or Clark. I'd say Biden was out for reasons mentioned elsewhere, so either Hillary or Wesley. I'm perfectly content with both. But, again, this presupposes it's not just lip-service.
August 22, 2008 8:06 AM | Reply | Permalink
ClarkClarkClarkClarkClark.
That's what I want. Unquestioned foreign policy cred, nice-looking, will appeal to Blue Hairs everywhere. Oh, and he's White, so NASCAR Dad won't worry so much about his prez sneaking into his blonde, 16-year old daughter's bedroom at night and raping her.
Biden, a friend of the little guy? Check his vote on the Bankruptcy Bill and on his contributions from credit lenders.
August 22, 2008 8:19 AM | Reply | Permalink
Mo Udall, back from the grave. McCain's worst nightmare.
As long as we're floating ridiculous ideas.
August 22, 2008 8:39 AM | Reply | Permalink
Chet Edwards
August 22, 2008 8:51 AM | Reply | Permalink
Mark Warner. Very similar in message and style. Dynamic speaker, former governer, former businessman,connects with the NASCAR set. Brings energy and economic credentials.
Of course I'm likely wrong but I can hope.
August 22, 2008 9:58 AM | Reply | Permalink
I'm hoping for Mark Warner too.
But the schedule suggests Brian Schweitzer.
August 22, 2008 10:45 AM | Reply | Permalink
Dynamic speaker? Mark Warner? On what planet?
I still can't believe they picked him to speak at the convention. Don't get me wrong, I like the guy as a politician, but he is a terrible speaker.
August 22, 2008 5:30 PM | Reply | Permalink
Michael Phelps
August 22, 2008 10:58 AM | Reply | Permalink
My guess. is Colin Powell.
August 22, 2008 10:59 AM | Reply | Permalink
I know he's dead, but...Isaac Hayes.
Obama/Shaft 08!
Shaft!
August 22, 2008 1:15 PM | Reply | Permalink
Shaft was actually Richard Roundtree, and he's still available.
August 22, 2008 4:03 PM | Reply | Permalink
RFK JR
August 22, 2008 1:39 PM | Reply | Permalink
McCain has 10 houses; Obama has at least 10 great options for VP. It's called an embarrassment of riches. I wish the speculation in the MSM would be as broad as what's in this thread. It would do a lot of good for the Democratic party when all McCain's apparently got is Pawlenty, Romney and Lieberman.
My favorite was Dodd, I'd be happy with Biden, not so much with Hill, dunno who Toby Keith is --or Chet Edwards, for that matter. I just did my own "vetting" of Schweizer and liked what I saw -- now he's my top pick.
August 22, 2008 1:54 PM | Reply | Permalink
I predict that Obama will offer the VP spot to John McCain, and McCain will accept because, just like he can not remember how many houses he owns, he will also have forgotten that he is the Republican nominee.
August 22, 2008 2:34 PM | Reply | Permalink
It won't be Clinton. It won't be Clark. I'm predicting it'll be a white male western governor. So that leaves Sebelius out. That really only leaves two choices Brian Schweitzer or Dave Freudenthal. But Brian is running for re-election. It might be hard to replace him. So I'm going to pick Dave.
August 22, 2008 2:41 PM | Reply | Permalink
I prefer Jim Webb all the way. Feisty hot Scots Irishman with a pitbull personality. Brings military and foreign policy creds to the table. Moderate on social issues. Helps in Virginia, and we won't lose the seat because Kaine would name another Dem to replace him. Young, but older than Obama. Former Repub but resigned as Sec of Navy for the right reasons. Appeals to independents. Good on TV and should be good in the debate.
August 22, 2008 3:11 PM | Reply | Permalink
He's the only one I can see with the strength needed to counter a McCain/Ridge ticket. I think that's who McCain will pick. I sure have fingers and now toes crossed. :) Here's a link to a story about his wife and life outside the Senate.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/11/02/AR2006110201673_pf.html
August 22, 2008 3:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
Webb was a hot commodity early in the Veepstakes. But, like Mark Warner, he explicitly said "no" repeatedly in the press. That usually rules a potential Veep out entirely.
August 22, 2008 5:47 PM | Reply | Permalink
Sure does. Not clear who is going to find the argument that Obama --famous author wealthy man living in a mansion Harvard Law and graduate of a prestigious prep school in Hawaii and having spent a significant portion of his youth in Indonesia -- is a regular guy just like you. At least he knows what things cost and does some of his own shopping -- anybody bought arugula in Iowa lately?
August 22, 2008 3:18 PM | Reply | Permalink
Intended to be in reply to Larry Geater about about the need for a translator.
August 22, 2008 3:20 PM | Reply | Permalink
TrollCritic et. al. Sorry, I just don't agree. Making fun of McCain on the houses is fun, but it does not create a message. Announcing the running mate and giving the rationale for it would. Sen. Obama is still in reaction mode, the VP discussion would allow him to make a constructive turn. Also, he could still make fun of the houses AND pump his VP choice at the same time. He could could contrast McCain's stumbles with his substantive message.
I confess I find that your media advice seems designed for shallow rather than substantive politics. But maybe that's because I still haven't been able to be entirely Buddha when folks suggest I'm an idiot.
August 22, 2008 3:28 PM | Reply | Permalink
I just hope it's not Tim Kaine. That would totally deflate the renewed optimism that I've felt about the race in the past 36 hours. I like Kaine, but it would just come off as too much of a rookie ticket.
MY "I can dream it" wildcard is still Al Gore.
August 22, 2008 3:59 PM | Reply | Permalink
I cannot see Al Gore agreeing to a second stint as VP. There is absolutely nothing for him to gain by it in return for much that would be negative.
August 22, 2008 5:38 PM | Reply | Permalink
I think I have adrenal fatigue.
August 22, 2008 4:10 PM | Reply | Permalink
Try a little Koolaid....works wonders.
August 22, 2008 4:43 PM | Reply | Permalink
After the CNN clip of Hillary today, I think she's out.
I think it's going to be Bloomberg.
August 22, 2008 5:00 PM | Reply | Permalink
Picks I would like to see: Sebelius, Kerry (pre-vetted AND military AND attack dog!), Biden.
Picks who have shot up the chattering-class board in the last few days: Schweitzer (someone I profiled as a long shot with a reasonable chance), Chet Edwards (no clue about him - but he was vetted, so hey...)
Personal preference: Sebelius. Could definitely get with Schweitzer, though.
I've always thought it would NOT be a sitting senator. So....Sebelius or Schweitzer, I suppose.
August 22, 2008 5:41 PM | Reply | Permalink
Intrade says Biden. HuffPo says Biden. Common sense says Biden. I think Biden is a GREAT choice. Let it be so.
August 23, 2008 1:04 AM | Reply | Permalink