Veep Speculation

We're nearing the point at which both Senators McCain and Obama will be selecting their respective Vice-Presidential running mates. Both Marc Ambinder of The Atlantic and Chris Cillizza of The Washington Post have put in their thoughts. Overall, I'm not comfortable with the list presented for Senator Obama, and I certainly hope that McCain picks Romney or Carly Fiorina. Either of those two would be like manna from heaven!

As for Senator Obama's choices, here's a rundown with complimentary commentary (taken from Marc Ambinder's list):

Sen. Chris Dodd (the insurance capital of the world)--can't really seeing it happen. Although, if truth be told, it was Dodd who broke Hillary Clinton's back. Remember in November of 2007, during the now famous (or infamous) Philadelphia debate where Dodd jumped all over Hillary's bobbing and weaving over giving driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. It was Dodd's dirty work that did Hill in.

Gov. Tim Kaine (the DC Beltway)--won't get it, even though he was an early backer of Obama's. He's pro-life for one and two he's inexperienced--more so than Obama. And Obama is already competitive in Virginia without Kaine's presence on the ticket, although his selection may just seal the deal. But, he's experiencing some political troubles at home, which isn't a good sign, either.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (where the Wizard of Oz took place)--another early supporter of Senator Obama's, she is the female counterpart of Obama. She's center-left and appeals to Republicans because of her sensibility and practicality. She won't help Obama carry Kansas, though. Right now, he's behind by about 20 points. No running mate can solve that conundrum.

Sen. Evan Bayh (a state no one knows about)--dull, boring, stale: all words to describe Senator Bayh. Although, his political resume is quite impressive. Governor and Senator of a red state and very popular. He endorsed Hillary, but never really said anything to disparage Obama's image. This would be a "safe" pick for Obama. I don't think he's looking to play it safe. At least, I certainly hope so.

Sen. Chuck Hagel (fly over country)--this is my personal choice, although I think his chances of receiving the spot are as narrow as Hillary's, if not more so. He appeals to the Midwest, independents, and disaffected Republicans. Plus, Vietnam hero, opponent of Iraq War, he has the military and foreign policy credos which Obama currently lacks. His trip with Obama to the Middle East next week may be mere window dressing or a preview of things to come.

Al Gore (the Earth)--just threw himself out of contention, telling ABC News that he has placed on himself a term limit for the vice presidency.

John Edwards (son of a mill worker)--he may very well end up in the spot. The Edwards of '08 is not the one from '04. He's tougher, stronger, and better at campaigning. I can't imagine Edwards appeasing to the other side during a VP debate this fall, as he did with Cheney four years prior. Edwards message during this campaign was similar to Obama's, except he was never able to raise enough money or appeal outside of Iowa (he was the Dick Gephardt of the '08 campaign). Also, the Edwardses are a strong pair. Standing with the Obamas, I can see it happening.

Joe Biden (Long-Winded)--I had always thought that he would be Secretary of State, and I still think he'll be at Foggy Bottom come January 2009. His experience in foreign policy is unmatched; he would be able to go after McCain with credibility and authenticity. His most famous contribution to the '08 campaign was this line: "There's only three things [Rudy Giuliani] mentions in a sentence -- a noun, a verb, and 9/11." Although, his mouth often gets him into trouble. Lest we forget that Obama is "articulate and bright and clean."

And last but not least, Sen. Hillary Clinton (Hell)--if this happens, cue the theme from Jaws.