Submitted by Dan (not verified) on Fri, 04/04/2008 - 23:40.
First, I want to thank everyone for reading and commenting. The comments are really good as well. Second, I know the column was intended with a bit of dry humor, but I do think Obama has to increase his rural appeal to win in November. As to your specific points on the VP slot I largely agree.
Webb obviously has foreign policy experience and Washington experience, but most of that came as a Republican. He may need more time to really establish himself. Also, the Clinton's took Lloyd Benson out of the Senate in making him a cabinet member and that hurt their strength in congress during their first two years. So yes Webb could be unready as a Democrat and also cost the Dems a seat in the Senate. Still, Webb has talent. His response to Bush's 07 State of the Union was really strong.
Warner is kind of the same deal in a different way - a huge talent who can win in red state territory, but do you sacrifice a probable Senate seat victory to make him VP?
Richardson balances the ticket in a number of ways. He is from the Southwest. Has executive, foreign policy and energy expertise and therefore he'd make a great running mate as measured on a lot of categories.
Good points on Webb
First, I want to thank everyone for reading and commenting. The comments are really good as well. Second, I know the column was intended with a bit of dry humor, but I do think Obama has to increase his rural appeal to win in November. As to your specific points on the VP slot I largely agree.
Webb obviously has foreign policy experience and Washington experience, but most of that came as a Republican. He may need more time to really establish himself. Also, the Clinton's took Lloyd Benson out of the Senate in making him a cabinet member and that hurt their strength in congress during their first two years. So yes Webb could be unready as a Democrat and also cost the Dems a seat in the Senate. Still, Webb has talent. His response to Bush's 07 State of the Union was really strong.
Warner is kind of the same deal in a different way - a huge talent who can win in red state territory, but do you sacrifice a probable Senate seat victory to make him VP?
Richardson balances the ticket in a number of ways. He is from the Southwest. Has executive, foreign policy and energy expertise and therefore he'd make a great running mate as measured on a lot of categories.