2. Congratulations, Former rival Mitt Romney, you are still in the running to become America's Next Top GOP Running mate. He's been raising a pretty dime for the McCain campaign, he was the keynote speaker at Maine's GOP convention and he would still give an Obama-Clinton ticket a run for their money (the current poll says McCain-Romney would lose 47% to 41%).
3. Florida's Charlie Crist may not be a viable running mate, even though he delivered the much-coveted Sunshine State to McCain. Why? Some say the speculations that Crist may be gay (after all, he's a bachelor that errs on the side of gay rights in terms of legalizing marriage and adopting children) may hurt McCain's chances of wooing the Republican base.
4. Mike Huckabee is busy taking part in fundraisers, writing a book about losing the nomination and the future of the Republican party and says they can mobilize young Evangelical voters by talking about poverty and the environment.
OBAMA UPDATES:
NADER UPDATES:
Matt Gonzalez has been traveling around California, letting voters know that if they cast a vote for Hillary, Barack or McCain, they will be "throwing their votes away" on big government. He wrote a particularly interesting article on why he doesn't support Barack Obama back in February and he continues to try to sway support Nader's way.
1. Calling all I-Heart-Huckabees! Mike Huckabee was invited on McCain's Straight Talk Express for the first time since his departure from the 2008 Race this past Friday. "Governor Huckabee and I had lots of time to chat with each other," McCain laughed. "We became friends on the campaign trail."
AP reports that McCain had a lot of positive things to say about Huckabee, reminding that Huck still has a 65 percent approval rating in Arkansas and interrupting reporters to interject that Huckabee WILL indeed be campaigning actively for him.
Mike reminded, "The main thing is getting Senator McCain elected," and that speculating about his VP potential prematurely would be like "buying a wedding dress before being asked."
The two attended a closed fundraiser together, ate some good old-fashioned Arkansas BBQ and visited the Arkansas Baptist College.
2. Tim Pawlenty was the guest of honor at a prestigious GOP fundraiser last Wednesday, which turned a few heads and made people wonder if this was a way of testing the waters with Pawlenty to see how he'd fare as #2. A few attendees mentioned that it felt like a "kick-off party for Pawlenty for vice president."
VEEP HOPELESSES OF THE WEEK:
1. Fred Thompson
On Sean Hannity this week: "No. That’s not in the cards, Sean. That’s not what I want.Well, it’s not — it’s not — mainly, it’s not what I want. And I don’t think that call would ever happen. I think John needs somebody else. I would advise him, if he asked me, that he needs somebody else and of a different profile. It’s not what I want. The presidency is the only job in town that’s worth going through what you’ve got to go through to get it. And that includes the vice presidency and all of the rest of them, as far as I’m concerned. And I thought I had an opportunity to do some things a different way. And if I was successful, I could lead in a different way. That didn’t work out. I’m interested in absolutely nothing else other than doing what I can to help those who are trying to help this country, and be a good citizen and do those things that I can do now in the private sector to help these kids and grandchildren. But that does not involve, you know, going to state funerals in faraway places."
2. Bobby Jindal
On Jay Leno this week: "It would be like saying I'm not going with that pretty girl to the prom before she asks you," Jindal explained. "I want to be Governor of Louisiana. If they let me, I'd like to run for re-election."
3. Haley Barbour
He told the Washington Times this week that he is TOO Conservative to be McCain's Veep and that McCain will benefit more from Independent and Moderate voters this election.
4. John Thune
He told the Press & Dakotan this week: "I very much like what I do. I don't have any desire to do anything else. I don't expect to be a part of it when it comes down to decision time." (Although he was quick to add: But Thune adds: "Never say never to ... the opportunities for public service. That much I guess is true.") "At the right time he will make a choice, and I'm confident he will make a good one," Thune says. "It's such a long ways off before anything happens on that ... and I don't expect to be in that mix and I've told people this. And so I'm going to leave it at that."
5. Jim Webb
Webb tells MTV that he's "never had that discussion with anyone." When the interviewer mentions that he didn't exactly say NO... Webb wraps up with the cliche "I'm really happy where I am now."
6. Charlie Crist
Crist told Wolf Blitzer last week: “The only discussions I’ve had with him,” Crist said, “are continuing to serve as the best governor for the people of Florida, continuing to support education and make sure we protect this beautiful environment that I love and your mother does, too.”
7. Phil Bredesen (TN Democrat)
Bredesen tells WBIR: "This is not something that I've been seeking," Bredesen said. "I think there are other people out there who have been actively seeking it, and I think that's much more likely of an outcome."
OBAMA UPDATES:
1. Tim Roemer's equipped with one rain suit and basketball analogies to help inspire and motivate Indiana voters on a seven day door-to-door tour. Has any Veep hopeful been so dedicated?
2. The South Dakota primary is dead last in the Democratic race (June 3rd), but it doesn't stop the Obama camp from poising its stumpers there. Former U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Tom Daschle appeared in Spearfish and Rapid City earlier today and will be traveling to Custer tomorrow to speak on Obama's behalf.
3. "Don't hit on Hillary," advised 82-year-old North Carolina resident Jean Weiss. "Bring us all back. Let her do that stuff. Leave her alone, you don't need to do that. You are higher than that."
"Will you be my running mate?" Obama answered. "That's my running mate there, she's got me fired up!" That's the closest we've come to Veep talk from Obama in a long while. All this Reverend Wright stuff is really throwing a wrench in the veepstakes!
CLINTON UPDATES:
1. In the last debate, Clinton singled out Wesley Clark, saying: "General Wesley Clark is here in the audience with me, as one of my major supporters." She could've picked Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell or Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, but at this stage of the game she wanted to play up her foreign policy credentials.
2. The Day of Reckoning is almost upon former Indiana Governor / Jr Senator Evan Bayh. If Hillary carries Indiana, it's likely she'd choose Bayh as her running mate. If not, it could be a death blow for the both of them. (Note: Even though the site hasn't been officially manned since November, don't you still think it's cool that there's still an Evan Bayh For Vice President myspace? http://www.myspace.com/bayh -- As my sister said, "You can learn a lot about a person by their myspace!")
3. Ted Strickland is reportedly going to West Virginia to stump for Hillary before the mid-May primary. After helping her win Ohio, he's proven to be a worthy running mate possibility.
NADER/GONZALEZ UPDATES:
This week, Ralph Nader's running mate, Matt Gonzalez, will be in Silicon Valley speaking at an event called "Latinos and 2008 Elections: the Real Issues."
Where's that Ex-VEEP Nominee?
With the North Carolina primary less than a week away, many people wonder: Where is John Edwards and why isn't he endorsing anyone? Even the typically outspoken Elizabeth had said very little, other than that she likes Senator Clinton's health care plan. One professor at the University of North Carolina Wilmington speculates, “The rumor on the street is that he’s holding out for a V.P. position.”
"Not me, Been there, Done that."
"I haven't thought about it."
"Let me know what you hear."
"There are other worthy candidates out there who were not competitors against John."
CLINTON UPDATES:
NADER VEEP UPDATES:
-
He has the military experience, having served as second lieutenant in the reserves from 1968 - 1974.
-
He received Veep votes in 1980, even though he wasn't on the ballot and many hoped he'd run with Kerry in 2004.
-
He cut a $250 million defecit as Mayor of Philadelphia, cut taxes and balanced the budget
-
He's beloved among women, unions and minorities
-
Ed Kennedy mentioned to Rendell, "Every time I turn on the TV I see you," indicating that people are starting to take note that Rendell's been actively campaigning. He's another "Empty Seater" like Charlie Crist.
-
Those closest to the two say that Clinton and Rendell share a positive disposition and an obsessive love of politics
(However, he did mention last month that he "likes to be his own boss" and has no interest in the #2 spot.)
Who DOESN'T Want To be VEEP This Week:
"I'm happy to be home" Portman said Friday. "I was in Washington for 15 years. It's wonderful to be back home in Ohio and to be able to spend more time with our kids and my dad, who is 85. I'm also able to teach, which is something that I've always wanted to do. Let me put it this way, I'm not eager to go back to Washington right now. I appreciate that some people have put me on their list."
Condi told the Associated Press in Alabama this week: "I do not want to be, don't intend to be, won't be on his ticket. It's time for me to do something else." She says that "something else" will be returning to teach at Stanford University next January. "We'll see in a few years what I do. But I -- this is not the time for me," Rice argues.
"He's worked in the state legislature to help our working class families with tax cuts, with health care, with ethics reform," Roemer told a large audience in South Bend. "He's done those things and accomplished it. So, it's not just talking about hope — it's really providing answers and opportunities for our people."
1. Look out! The Conservatives have launched an Anti-Romney Campaign!
"There's just tremendous amounts of money that are flowing from the Romney camp into the rather sparsely funded John McCain campaign," William Murray, chairman of the PAC, stated. "And we see this as a way he's trying to buy the vice presidency the way he tried to buy the presidency." The letter to Senator McCain has 26 signatures from national conservative groups and points to Romney's record as governor for its reasoning. The signers pledged to help McCain win, should his choose a a "consistent conservative" running mate.
2. McCain's VEEP List Underway:
McCain reported that he's narrowed his list down to about 20 this past weekend and it's now at "an embryonic stage."
"It's the same process that has been used by Democrats and Republicans," he said. "It's not an unusual thing. You put the list together, and then you just could do a cursory kind of a look that I guess you could do on Google."
He said his campaign had asked certain individuals to lead the effort, but he was waiting for an answer.
McCain said he wanted there to be no missteps when he unveils his choice and referred to former vice president Dan Quayle as an example of a nominee who "had not been briefed and prepared for some of the questions."
"I'm a great friend of Dan Quayle's, and I think he was a fine senator.... I just think you have to have a measured process, [and] make sure that you have taken... all the factors into consideration and then decide," he said. "I'd love to do it earlier in the run than later, but it depends on the process," he said. "We just really haven't gotten far enough along in the whole thing to really be able to even predict what we're doing, seriously."
We can speculate that some names on the list will likely be: Mike Huckabee, Mitt Romney, Tim Pawlenty, Charlie Crist, Haley Barbour, Mark Sanford and Jon Huntsman Jr. (Hopefully Condi too?)
3. Portman on the List?
On Sunday, The Columbus Dispatch reported that Ohio Rep. Rob Portman was on McCain's VP short list. When you look at Portman's credentials, you'll wonder why we didn't think of him sooner. He's served six terms in the House of Representatives, he was the US Trade Representative from 2005-2006 and he served as the current administration's Director of the Office of Management and Budget from 2006-2007. Bush allegedly referred to Portman as "a good friend, a decent man, and a skilled negotiator."
"You don't pick him because you want to win Ohio, you pick him because he brings to the table a breadth of experience few others can match," Neil Newhouse, a GOP pollster, added.
4. Condi Wants In!
A former Bush administration aide told The New York Post that Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has been courting GOP elite like Dan Senor and "campaigning" to be John McCain's running mate. "Condi Rice has been actively, actually in recent weeks, campaigning for this," the aide reported.
"I did not hear that - I missed those signals," McCain told ABC News, which may have made him reconsider his Veep List. "I think she's a Great American," he commented.
WHO DOESN'T WANT TO BE VEEP THIS WEEK:
Portman deflected Veepstakes inquiries, as does everyone with half a brain at this stage of the game. He did mention he's interested in a Senate seat (to replace George Voinovick) or the Ohio Governor position (to replace Sherrod Brown.) Portman left the White House back in June to "spend more time with his family" so it seems unlikely he'd want an even more grueling position. Portman told The Columbia Dispatch, "I appreciate some people have put me on their ... list, but there are a lot of other great choices."
2. John Edwards
After John Edwards made his keynote speech at CTIA, the annual U.S. wireless industry showcase, the "Would you accept the vice presidential nomination" question came up in a Q&A session, to which Edwards simply responded, "No."
1. Obama Said He Doesn't Need A "Foreign Policy VEEP":
He argued that visiting embassies where you see children doing native dances, tour USAID plants and sit through CIA briefings, you're not really getting to know a country at all. He added, "So when I speak about having lived in Indonesia for four years, having family that is impoverished in small villages in Africa--knowing the leaders is not important--what I know is the people.... I traveled to Pakistan when I was in college--I knew what Sunni and Shia was [sic] before I joined the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.... Nobody is entirely prepared for being Commander-in-Chief. The question is when the 3 AM phone call comes do you have somebody who has the judgment, the temperament to ask the right questions, to weigh the costs and benefits of military action, who insists on good intelligence, who is not going to be swayed by the short-term politics. By most criteria, I"ve passed those tests and my two opponents have not."
2. Obama's Untapped Veep Pool: Bob Casey
Some polls have suggested that Senator Obama needs to tap into the White, Catholic, Working Class demographic in places like rural Ohio and Pennsylvania. The assumption is that Clinton may very well win Pennsylvania. Although the larger picture is that it will matter... but not nearly enough. My guess is that he'll take urban epicenter Philadelphia but he'll struggle in those white, rural working class areas... unless a prominent politician comes to the rescue to drum up support.
History: They traveled PA together on the 1992 “Putting People First” Clinton-Gore campaign bus tour.)
The Pundits Say: "The rest of the country has Reagan Democrats - in Pennsylvania we have Casey Democrats. He has strong ties in the Catholic and conservative community in the state," said Democratic consultant Rebecca Kirszner.
Drawback: But would Obama pick another Junior Senator to join him?
CLINTON UPDATES:
1. Clinton Not Veepworthy?
2. Bayh Forfeits the Veepstakes?
1. Joe Lieberman is the latest darling of the GOP. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), called McCain and Lieberman "something special." He spoke highly of McCain's presidential presence while touring the Middle East. He added, "Senator Lieberman, I think, is a national treasure, because no matter how you feel about his politics, he was willing to risk everything, politically, for a cause he believed in. But to see the interaction between these two guys and world leaders was something special."
2. This week, there's been more support for Tim Pawlenty as McCain's #2. Pawlenty claims, “It's just speculation and these decisions will be made down the road, but I'm honored to have my name mentioned."
Former VP Walter Mondale said, “I don’t know him. He seems talented. Good skills. I don’t agree with a lot of what he’s doing. But he seems a pleasant, cooperative kind of person. He has things a nominee might be looking for.”
Furthermore, Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson didn't specific mention Pawlenty, but he did say: “If you look at a map of blue and red states, you need to look at states on the bubble. The three most important states for Republicans are Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. So I think McCain should look for a governor from the upper Midwest or a legislator who can help in the health care arena.”
3. Some Condi lovers surmise that her recent attendance at a GOP Think Tank breakfast means she's making a power play. "Someone like Condi Rice doesn't go to Grover Norquist's den to talk about the Annapolis Middle East peace process," a Republican operative told The Huffington Post's Roger Clemons. "She's going to secure her future in Republican politics and to position herself as a 'potential' VP candidate on the McCain ticket."
4. Mark Sanford is still being touted as a top pick. President of the American Conservative Union David Keene had this to say about the South Carolina Governor: "He is one of the few people out there who, if McCain put him on the ticket, would solidify the base very quickly." A close aide to McCain added that "Loyalty is a big, big commodity in McCain-land." As it turns out, Sanford is every bit as "Maverick" as McCain... only well-liked by Conservatives too. He once forewent his housing allowance to sleep on a futon in his office and marched to the House Chamber with two pigs (one named "Pork" and the other named "Barrel") under his arms. (Oh, Sanford, you're just weird enough to get my official blessing for VEEP!)
5. As you know, McCain's been spending a lot of time in California, trying to drum up support. He had many praiseworthy comments about former Newport Beach Congressman Christopher Cox but tried to quiet down the VEEP speculation, saying: “Chris Cox is a very fine man, but we’re certainly not going to talk about our list of potential running mates.”
OBAMA UPDATES:
2. Has anyone noticed that Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius has been missing?? Since her January endorsement, she has spent her weekends stumping for Barack in Kansas, Colorado, Utah and Ohio and (most recently) Mississippi. Her spokesperson said that she's spent about seven days campaigning and it has all been done on the Obama Camp's dime. Much like "Empty Seat Charlie" Crist, Sebelius is under intense scrutiny for spending so much time away from work. Corrie Kangas, political director for the State Republican Party, commented, "The governor is out campaigning for the most liberal senator in Congress and she's just really abdicating her leadership role." ... Or is she just vying for the #2 position?
WHO DOESN'T WANT TO BE VEEP THIS WEEK:
He said that he loves his job as Louisiana Governor and plans to remain on the job to fill his term and hopes he gets re-elected. He's busy with workforce issues, he adds.
When asked if he was interested in being on the Democratic ticket this year, he replied a trite: "Not particularly."
After spending the week in Indiana, courting voters alongside Governor Evan Bayh, some are even more convinced that Hillary is leaning toward him as VEEP. However, the May 6th popularity content -- I mean, primary -- may be the final telling factor.
Some audience members chanted "Bayh for Vice" when the two entered the Saratoga Cafe, to which Clinton responded, "It's premature and presumptuous to talk about any of that." She continued: "I don't think it would be any surprise to anyone what high regard I hold Evan Bayh in. ... I'm a great admirer of his."
Bayh told reporters from the NWI Times, he wasn't ruling out the possibility of a VP nod but added, "Its out of my hands and I love my day job."
Thursday morning Strickland told the Cincinnati Enquirer that he's too busy in his current post to worry about a VP nod from Clinton. "Howdy Doody could be in this office and the same speculation would occur," Strickland told the journalists. He said that "If I were asked, I would say, 'Thank you. I'm glad you think I and Ohio are that important, but I have some suggestions.'" He then dropped former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack's name.
Draft Site Update:
Thinkcondi.com is an official blog dedicated to drafting Condoleeza Rice for McCain's VP.
DraftHaley.com is an official blog dedicated to drafting Haley Barbour for McCain's VP.
DraftJCWatts.typepad.com is an official blog dedicated to drafting JC Watts for McCain's VP.
PalinforVP.blogspot.com is an official blog dedicated to drafting Sarah Palin for McCain's VP.
DraftWesleyClark.com is an official blog dedicated to drafting Wesley Clark for the Democratic VP (presumably Clinton).
Richardson4VP.blogspot.com is an official blog dedicated to drafting Bill Richardson for the Democratic VP (presumably Obama).
MCCAIN VEEP HOPELESS OF THE WEEK:
CLINTON VEEP UPDATES:
Look Who's Stumping For Hill!
“Hillary Clinton understands the challenges facing Indiana and is the best candidate to turn around our economy and rebuild the middle class,” Bayh said. “She is ready to lead this nation as commander in chief from her first day in the White House.”
Lately he's been busy working in the senate -- speaking out against fiscal irresponsibility in Washington, saving small (magnet making) businesses, creating bills to help veterans, calling for weather alert radios and making all the right moves to be the perfect VEEP candidate for Hillary!
OBAMA VEEP UPDATES:
Is Nancy Pelosi positioning herself for Obama's VEEP?
2. She hinted about another kind of "Dream Team"... "However, let me just say I do think we will have a dream team. It just won't be those two names."
3. She fabricated a Clinton quote. "I think that ticket either way is impossible...I think that the Clinton administration has fairly ruled that out by proclaiming that Senator [John] McCain would be a better Commander in Chief than Obama."
4. Last month, The New York Post reported: "Congressional aides said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is considering endorsing Obama. They say she's weighing whether a public endorsement would harm her ability to function in her job."
5. Nancy Pelosi's top advisor George Miller has endorsed Obama.
MCCAIN VEEP UPDATES:
Romney told the "Hannity and Colmes" show last Tuesday that, "Any Republican leader in this country would be honored to be asked to serve as the vice presidential nominee, myself included."
The presidential nominee did say he was looking for someone "who can take your place, shares your principles, your values and your vision and your priorities."
John McCain said he would not rule out Mitt Romney as a possible running mate yesterday, praising the effectiveness of the Governor's primary campaign, despite his loss.
“Millions of Republicans voted for him. He’s earned himself a place in the future of the Republican Party,” McCain said in New Hampshire.
After Super Tuesday McCain said: "He fought hard; he fought well. I think he's part of the future of our Republican Party." Karl Rove believes "there seems to be a growing enthusiasm out there for an M and M ticket," especially among conservatives.
Similarly, Mike Huckabee hinted at his willingness to serve, saying: "I'm not one that has any illusions that he has some obligation to me," Huckabee said at Columbia College in Missouri. "It's his decision to make. I'm going to support whomever he picks." But he adds, "I want to do as much as I can to help Republicans and conservatives get elected."
Who is McCain hanging with this week in Iraq?
1. Senator Lindsey Graham
2. Senator Joe Lieberman
Who Does NOT Want to be McCain's VEEP This Week:
Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) - "We've read all those stories and blogs and I'll tell you it is an honor to be mentioned," Blackburn said. "It's nice to be mentioned, but we know it's not ever going to happen. hey'll go with somebody from a state that is more in play than Tennessee is. Quite frankly, I like serving in the House. I'm running for re-election. We just know it's not going to happen. It points up that what they want to se see is a non-traditional running mate for the presidential ticket."
Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) - Offered a string of jokes about McCain at the annual Gridiron Dinner. "They say the office of president ages a man. Why not elect the one who has a head start?" Or "Some have even suggested that women aren't suited for the presidency, because of mood swings and temper tantrums. My answer to that is, have you met John McCain?" And the ever-so-classy, "The president and I have many things in common. We both grew up in Texas. We were both cheerleaders and we have both waked up from all-night parties in a sorority house." 
MCCAIN VEEP Updates
1. A Post & Courier (Charleston) article recently refuted Sanford's VEEP potential, saying: "Too bad the General Assembly, which generally gets its way, has been sticking it to Sanford on nearly all of his major proposals, including income-tax reform and restructuring of state government. His governorship — at this point — looks like a lame-duck enterprise with nearly three years left." The columnist added, "McCain's VP choice should bring a) an impressive executive resume, or b) more electoral votes than he already has clinched. Sanford would bring neither."2. McCain's rumored to name his Veep Czar soon. He recently met with President Bush to gather information on the selection process, among other things. Bush reportedly joked, "You know, you want to be careful who you select to run it," meaning that he had selected Cheney -- who conveniently found himself to be the most qualified #2! McCain mentioned that he wanted to speak with "people who have been through the process before" -- people like "A.B. Culvahouse", who served as counsel to President Reagan, he mentioned.
3. This week Bob Dole said that it's well known that McCain has a bit of a temper, but he insisted that it wouldn't get in the way of his job. Late last week, McCain showed a bit of his classic temper when NY Times reporters pushed him about Kerry once asking him to be VEEP. They tried to corner him for saying one minute that he was approached and denied the request because he's a Conservative Republican and Kerry's a Liberal Democrat, which would not be compatible... and the next moment telling reporters that he hadn't had the conversation at all. (This of course all allegedly happened way back in 2004.) McCain snapped, "Everybody knows I had a conversation,’’ he angrily told this reporter as his plane headed from Atlanta to New Orleans. “Everybody knows that, that I had a conversation. There’s no living American in Washington, there’s no one, and you know it, too. You know it. You know it. So I don’t even know why you asked.’’
4. You can sometimes tell who a candidate is eyeing up for VP by who he's traveling with. (It's sort of like Entertainment Paparazzi trying to figure out who's-dating-who). Lately, McCain has been seen at private parties, fundraisers and public speaking appearances with Florida Governor Charlie Crist, who's been out stumping so much he's been called "Empty Chair Charlie" in his home state. Some are raising eyebrows at the perceived hypocrisy, since Crist attacked rival Jim Davies in 2006 for taking too many days off, saying, "Jim, as you know, you can't govern from an empty chair." It seemed Crists's very platform was, "I will work every day." McCain recently said of Crist, "McCain: "I know one thing about Gov. Crist, and that is that he is a great governor. He does a great job. And I think that ... there are many ways for him to serve the country." He seems certain that Crist will have a place in his administration... but will it be as his #2?
1. Geraldine Ferraro's Talking Trash: Comments often get overlooked when there's so much other rhetoric circulating. Recently, Water Mondale's Ex-Running Mate Geraldine Ferraro took a below-the-belt racial jab at Obama. “I think what America feels about a woman becoming president takes a very secondary place to Obama's campaign - to a kind of campaign that it would be hard for anyone to run against," Ferraro told Torrance CA's Daily Breeze on Friday. “For one thing, you have the press, which has been uniquely hard on her. It's been a very sexist media. Some just don't like her. The others have gotten caught up in the Obama campaign. “If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position and if he was a woman (of any color) he would not be in this position. He happens to be very lucky to be who he is. And the country is caught up in the concept." Obama supporters are scratching their heads as to why Clinton hasn't slammed Ferraro regarding those comments when just last week Obama accepted the resignation from one of his staffers who called Clinton "a monster." It looks like the gloves won't be coming off any time soon, and certainly not before the crucial Pennsylvania primary.2. Hillary Wants Obama for VEEP, even though he's "not qualified."
OBAMA VEEP Updates:
2. Jim Doyle's midway through his second term as WI Governor... but he certainly has been stumping for Obama a lot in his home state... and reportedly on Obama's dime! "It is very difficult to see any scenario that Hillary Clinton would get the nomination in a way that doesn't rip the party apart," Doyle told the press.
NADER VEEP Updates
All Signs Point To Pawlenty?
-He spent the weekend partying in Arizona at McCain's pad
-He led the National Governor's Association Meeting last week
-He was one of McCain's earliest endorsers
-He's hinted at more overseas trips to visit the troops soon
-He claims that he and McCain have "never discussed" his possibility as VEEP (an obvious lie!)
-He recently sided against MN police officials, taking a surprisingly hard stance on immigration
Why wouldn't he want a young, blue collar rock-n-roll type by his side? (Especially if Barack secures the Dem nomination!)
Who's "NOT interested" in Being VEEP This Week:
-Condoleeze Rice: "I have always said that the one thing that I have not seen myself doing is running for elected office in the United States," she told a press conference. "It's sort of not in my genes."
-Kay Bailey Hutchison: "I don't want to be vice president," Hutchison, R-Texas, said during a brief interview on Capitol Hill this week. "I'm going in a totally different direction. It's a little early to be talking about 2010, but that's certainly the direction I'd like to go."
-Tim Pawlenty: "We haven't discussed it."
-Chris Dodd: "Who would want to be vice president? I'd rather be chairman of the Senate Banking Committee."
Hillary Rides Tide of Confidence and Suggests Obama As Runningmate
Obama Calls Bloomberg... Bloomberg Side-Steps #2 Talk
Yes, Obama DID happen to call Mayor Bloomberg the day after he officially announced he was NOT seeking the presidency for 2008. Was it just a friendly chat, a strategy session, a fundraising chat or a "Will you run for me?" chat...?
When interviewer John Gambling asked Bloomberg about accepting a VP slot, he avoided the question by saying, "Nobody is going to ask me, John. I am not running for state Senate, I am not running for state Assembly, I am not running for governor. Going into the Senate when you're 66 years old is not very smart because in the Senate, it's all seniority, and I'll be in my 90s before I had any real say there."
Minuses:
Quotes:
"Everyone wants to blame him for running," said Gonzalez, a 42-year-old consumer activist who will take a leave from his law practice to focus on the campaign. "But he has to run, because the other parties don't want to fix the problems with election reform. They've put us in an awkward position - either we never run for office, and the problems never get fixed; or run, try to win votes on substance and get criticized for it."
"I'd left politics to do something else with my life my life. But I see this as public service."
"I have no illusions about what's happening here today, but let me also say that I've never entered a political contest with the idea that it couldn't be won."
Those in Utah are touting their Governor as the next VEEP. But, only in his fourth year in office, in a state away from the political action, it is doubtful that John McCain would reach for a national unknown.
If Mr. McCain wants to push New York (force the Dems to defend the turf) then he may lean toward Governor Pataki, or Mayor's Bloomberg or Rudy. Name recognition from veterans used to the spotlight.
John McCain needs to find a leader with executive experience and national gravitas. As the oldest first term President, he can't have an inexperienced number two. This does not bode well for Mark Sanford or other lesser-known Governors. And, what of Lamar Alexander and Jeb Bush? Your thoughts? -Dan Coen, Publisher, VicePresidents.com. VicePresidents1@Yahoo.com
John McCain Plans Search For VEEP
With the primary campaign almost behind him, five key aides to McCain have begun mapping out the strategy to win the White House in November. One of his main goals will be find a VEEP.
RAHM EMANUEL FOR VEEP? (In our wildest dreams!)
"As vice president I have a peace plan that can bring together warring factions whether they are shia and sunni or Hillary and MSNBC. I’d be perfect for Vice President for either Hillary or Barack. I’d balance them both—I have more experience in the executive branch than Barack and I’ve spent more time alone with Bill than Hillary has."
"Senator Obama and I have a lot in common. We don’t just share a home state, we also share exotic names that were given to us by our fathers. Barack, which in Swahili means Blessed and Rahm, which, roughly translated from Hebrew, means Go Screw Yourself. We have to face the facts. My party is split: some people want the first African American nominee, others want the first female nominee, there are even a few who say it’s time for the first Jewish nominee. That’s why I have a solution that makes everyone happy. Whoopi Goldberg."
"But whether the nominee is Barack or Hillary I’m serious about this campaign for vice president and to make sure I can win. I am already launching ads to introduce myself to the American people…I’m happy to give you a sneak preview of the first ad now."
WATCH THE HILARIOUS YOUTUBE VIDEO HERE!
Ok, so the caviling and scathing pit bull Rahm Emanuel is NOT reeeally campaigning for the #2 Position. But his appearance at the Washington Press Club’s annual congressional dinner was certainly a hoot! Here at VicePresidents.com we can't help but acknowledge the fact that Rahm made the vice presidency his speech's main course. We can only dream of having a Democratic equivalent of Dick Cheney -- someone who is every bit as colorful and aggressive. Imagine "Rahm-bo" (as his colleagues dub him) sending rotting fish to snarky pollsters, stabbing the table with knives while naming politial opponents and chanting "DEAD DEAD DEAD DEAD!" We can dream, can't we?
For more about this House Representative of Illinois's 5th District, click here for Wikipedia or here for Rolling Stone coverage.
Hillary's VEEP Notes
First of all, Hillary wants a Defender for her Vice President.
She also wants a person with Energy, Experience and Committment.
And finally, her VEEP needs to be ready to lead immediately, if anything happened. But Iowans want to know if she's got her eyes on Vilsack.
Did You Forget About This Old Codger? Well... Don't!
This just in! Anything is possible for Mike Gravel's VEEP!
Wrestlers Make Good Vice Presidents?
Some are campaigning for ex-WWF Wrestler/Governor Jesse Ventura to run as Ron Paul's VEEP. A little exploratory committee is trying to gauge the reaction on youtube as we speak.
What do YOU think, Wingmen?Sorry, McCain, Tim's Out (and Irritated!)
John Edwards and Barack Obama Could Be The Dream Team
Politico.com reports Mr. Edwards and Mr. Obama met and discussed the 2008 campaign. Although Edwards did run for VEEP in 2004, he would be a compelling and dynamic pick for Obama in 2008. This team, with the young family and interesting backgrounds, may duplicate the innovative Clinton/Gore '92 team that so captivated the country 16 years ago. It would bring spirit and excitement and a transformation of communication skills from the executive offices that neither the current President, or John McCain, could match.-Dan Coen, VicePresidents.com, VicePresidents1@Yahoo.com
Mark Sanford Being Pushed Hard As McCain's VEEP
The two-term Governor of South Carolina is named quite often on national news reports as John McCain's potential VEEP. At age 47, with executive and legislative experience, he could be a nice complement to John McCain. His four young children add the sense of opportunity-the opportunity to move the GOP beyond the 60-something club and into the following generation of hope and optimism. Mr. Sanford is one of the few young and bright GOP leaders, and therefore he stands out. He is strongly conservative, representing a southern state that normally votes conservative. This could balance the ticket for McCain and hold the conservative right. It could also hurt McCain in his quest to grab moderates and cross-over Democrats.
Mr. Sanford's selection strongly hinges on the Democratic nominee. If Mrs. Clinton is the nominee, Mr. McCain will not need to worry about saving a southern state or holding his base, and Mr. Sanford may not be needed. If Mr. Obama is the nominee and makes a run at the south, Independents and cross-over Democrats then Mr. Sanford may be needed to shore-up the GOP base and keep the Carolinas, Arkansas, Alabama and Louisiana in the GOP Fold.-Dan Coen, VicePresidents.com. VicePresidents1@Yahoo.com
Barack Obama's website floats Caroline Kennedy as VP Material
Caroline Kennedy? Are they just pulling random names out of a hat now? The only qualifications Caroline has are: editor, lawyer, mother. With Barack already lacking in experience points, he's going to need a much more politically savvy #2 than someone who was simply born into a political family. Perhaps it was just the Obama site administrator's way of saying "Thanks for comparing Barack to your father and inspiring a JFK comparison that inspires every white Democratic male in America to vote Obama."
"Kaine would make an excellent vice presidential candidate except for one thing: That would mean he's succeeded by a Republican as governor," said Paul Goldman, former campaign manager for Virginia's first black governor.
Virginia Governor Tim Kaine obtained his Bachelor's Degree in Economics and practiced law for 17 years after graduating from Harvard Law School. He also taught a class called "Legal Ethics" at the University of Richmond Law School. (Now there's a guy you can trust!) Additionally, he spent a year in Honduras doing missionary work and became well known for his fair housing initiatives. He's worked hard for children's education and health with projects like guaranteeing pre-k education and vaccinating sixth grade girls with the HPV vaccine.
Who Will Be Ron Paul's VEEP?
Sometimes it can be hard to find info on Ron Paul because most people are just holding their breath until Huckabee or Paul concede defeat. However, there are a few people who still believe that Ron Paul may run on the Libertarian ticket when all's said and done, though he denies the speculation. In that case, why not pick 1980 Libertarian VP candidate David Koch? Others say Judge Napolitano would be a good Catholic runningmate... or SC Governor Mark Sanford.
Newt Gingrich's McCain VP Picks
Newt took some time out of his busy speaking schedule again to speak on Good Morning America about the 2008 race. He predicted that Obama would be the Democratic Nominee and even selected some VEEPs for McCain:
1. FL Governor Charlie Crist
2. SC Governor Mark Sanford
3. AR Governor Mike Huckabee
4. Senator Joe Lieberman
5. When all else fails, Newt is always up to the task!
More McCain VEEPS:
"He endorsed McCain at a critical time helping ensure a McCain victory in Florida, he lives outside the Capital Beltway, and he’s very popular (even more than Jeb Bush) in Florida which will be a must-win state in 2008."
"I know he’s in the Senate, but Thune’s youthfulness and near legend reputation for defeating Senator Minority Leader Tom Daschle could help McCain with conservatives. He’s a good campaigner, has a maverick streak, and comes from the Midwest which is likely to be one of the battlegrounds of 2008."
Texas Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison has been called "the counter-punch to Hillary Clinton." Ladies Home Journal named her "One of the 30 Most Powerful Women in America." Her favorable ratings with Southwest Conservatives makes her a great candidate for VP. She's an anti-tax crusader and foreign policy smart to boot. However, her pro choice / pro stem cell research record may deter some Conservatives and highlight McCain's perceived weaknesses.
Romney Suspends Bid For the Presidency, Positions Himself for VEEP!
Could Romney humble himself enough to play second fiddle to McCain?
It's hard to say. If you watched him closely after the Super Tuesday results were in, you could see his uneasiness as he claimed they would "stay in the fight" and you just knew that all these "meetings with advisors" couldn't be good.
Perhaps he's been humbled just enough to consider staying in the race -- but in a new capacity. He seems to have money in the bank and the will to go on, so why not saddle up for a Cheney-like position in the White House?
On one hand, McCain has said the only roles he wants for his VP are to inquire as to the status of his health and to cast the tie-breaking vote in the senate. Yet, he's also stated that he'll need economic advice from his VEEP... and as Chuck Norris pointed out, McCain's "old."
Let's Talk About VEEPs!
Every once in a while, I come across a fantastic article on VEEPs that I'd like to share. This piece by Paul R. Dunn sheds light on the importance of selecting a good VP nominee (and the consequences of selecting a bad one!) He also gives his recommendation for the Dems' nominee that could offset McCain.
It's no secret by now that McCain needs a Conservative from the Deep South to help him unite the party behind him. After crushing Romney in Super Tuesday performance, McCain is still far from out of the woods if many conservatives opt to simply "boycott voting." Exit polls showed 60% of the Conservative vote going to Romney on Tuesday, which is a troubling sign for McCain.
Here at VicePresidents.com, we've mentioned Haley Barbour before. Now his supporters are running a "Draft Haley Barbour for VP" campaign, complete with its own website. (That's how you KNOW it's for real!)
Of course, this is not to say Haley Barbour isn't fully qualified to stand alongside McCain. He's economically savvy, having transformed Mississippi's $720 million defecit into a $246 surplus (without raising taxes, obviously). He's known for tort reform, increasing education budgets, job creation, emphasizing prevention and reform for Medicaid and taking a tough stance on national security by increasing state trooper presence. Suddenly, he seems like a perfect fit for McCain.
Bob Dole Says "Condi Rice For VEEP"
Reiterating upon one of Bob Novak's points from several weeks ago, Bob Dole dropped the Condoleeza Rice name again for McCain's VP on The Colbert Report this week.
EX-VP Nominee Bob Dole Stirs Up The 2008 Election
Just in time for Super Tuesday, the 1976 vice presidential candidate Bob Dole makes his voice heard. What better way to sprint ahead in the media than to write a letter to none other than Rush Limbaugh? It's no secret that Rush has a chip on his shoulder regarding John McCain.
Limbaugh is quoted at Time.com, saying of McCain, “He stabbed his own president in the back on legislation, a number of times. He doesn’t support his party or his president when the chips are down. He called people who want to protect the border racists, nativists, protectionists, and worse. And what kind of character is it that tries to slide all that through under cover of darkness, in a back room.”
In Dole's letter, he urges Rush to reconsider his harsh feelings on McCain, stating in his letter, "I was the Republican Leader from January 1985 until I left the Senate voluntarily in June 1996. I worked closely with Senator McCain when he came to the Senate in 1987 until I departed. I cannot recall a single instance when he did not support the Party on critical votes."
As expected, Mitt Romney weighed in, commenting on Fox News Tuesday, "Well, it’s probably the last person I would have wanted to have write a letter for me. … I think there are a lot of folks who tend to think that maybe John McCain’s race is a bit like Bob Dole’s race — that it’s the guy who’s next in line, the inevitable choice." He later clarified that "Senator Dole is an American hero, a war hero, a fine man and a great leader for our party” when McCain called Romney's response "disgraceful."
Some speculate that the McCain team put Dole up to it, but Dole insists that he speaks of his own volition and that if anything, he's dragged into the race by his wife Elizabeth, the "good conservative" who's running for reelection in North Carolina.
Sarah Palin Campaigns for VEEP!
As you may recall, we first mentioned Governor of Alaska Sarah Palin as a potential VEEP just over a month ago. Her campaign for the #2 Spot has been picking up steam on the front page of the Anchorage Daily News and Alaska Magazine, as well as radio talk shows like BlogTalkRadio and AKRadio.org to name a few! It seems that VP-Mania is kicking off in full force. Here at VicePresidents.com, we can't help but admire those gutsy enough to campaign for VP!
McCain's VEEP: Condi??
Last week Conservative political commentator Bob Novak floated Condoleeza Rice as McCain's VEEP! Watch the video here!
Will Kathleen Sebelius Appear As a VEEP or Cabinet Member?
Just one week ago, Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius endorsed Barack Obama. She's appeared in several ads to say, “Barack will turn the page on the old politics to boost our economy, fix healthcare and end this war. That’s real change for our future."
“She's clearly on a national list either for a cabinet level position or perhaps a vice presidential position,” suggests political analyst Dr. Jeff Jarman.
Kathleen has a commendable history of "fighting the institution," as Barack often preaches. In a surprise 1994 win, she became the first Democrat to be elected as state insurance commissioner in 100 years. As commissioner, she refused to take any campaign contributions from insurers and blocked monopolizing mergers.
She's also noted for getting rid of $1.1 billion of inherited debt, taking a bipartisan approach to governing, supporting public education and cutting out government waste (instead of raising taxes).
In 2001, Sebelius was one of Governing Magazine's Public Officials of the Year. In 2005, Time Magazine called her "one of the five best governors in America" and she was recognized as one of "8 in 08" (women who could possibly be elected as president or vice president).
Clinton-Coulter? I'm 110% sure it'd never happen, but wouldn't it be funny if Ann Coulter was Hillary's running-mate in 2008?
If that were the case, do you think Coulter would pry any of the votes from McCain or attract the conservative base at all?
She recently came out and said that she intended to campaign for Senator Clinton if she's up against McCain in the general election.
Coulter told Fox News: "She's more conservative than he is. She lies less than John McCain. She's smarter than John McCain. I will campaign for her if it's McCain."
Romney Attacks McCain (RE: Kerry?)
Romney recently picked on John McCain at an airport rally in West Palm Beach Florida, saying, “I don’t think McCain’s a Democrat … but I do recall a story that he was thinking about being John Kerry’s running mate—he gave that some thought."
He added, “Had someone asked me that question, there would not have been a nanosecond of thought about it. It would’ve been an immediate laugh. And of course, if someone asked him if he would consider me as a running mate, he would have also laughed immediately.”
McCain's VEEP Is Especially Crucial, Analysts Say!
John McCain is in serious trouble, should be win the GOP nomination.
His failure to woo Conservative voters will surely cost Republicans the election.
Conservatives are frankly pissed about McCain's stance on immigration (amnesty, what???), as well as his history on taxes (he initially opposed the Bush tax cuts), global warming (he chaired hearings on the issue) and campaign finance reform (he backed it, which would surely strip power from the Conservatives).
Options include:
1. South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford. "McCain needs to pick a man of the right, and South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford would be the best, at many levels," said economic conservative Pat Toomey, president of the influential Club for Growth and former Republican congressman from Pennsylvania.
2. Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour. "The only thing that will unite conservatives is a good — make that very good — V.P. choice," says former Republican National Committee General Counsel David Norcross. "Haley knows and understands the party. He is the essence of a party man, has won bipartisan praise for his leadership in the wake of the [Hurricane] Katrina catastrophe at a time when the Republican-led federal government responded in a way that still brings the word 'incompetence' to the lips of many Republicans."
Obama-Webb Ticket?
Virginia Governor Tim Kaine, an early supporter of U.S. Sen. Barack Obama, said he'd be "well served" to consider VA Senator Jim Webb for the #2 Slot.
“I think he should choose someone who is strong in foreign policy and defense issues -- like Senator Webb."
Lieberman Passes on VP, According to AP
"No, I'd tell him, 'Thanks, John, I've been there, I've done that. You can find much better,'" Lieberman told The Associated Press during an interview Tuesday in his Senate office. "I'm not seeking anything else."
Lieberman plans to continue his fourth term as senator, he adds. "I don't have any intention of leaving the Democratic Party. I want to