John Edwards VP Nominee

[Kristina]

Originally Posted by jonathan lall

Even though picking the primaries' runner-up is tradition, I'm sure Kerry was seriously thinking about other running mates (like Hillary Clinton or Dick Gephardt maybe?).

Not to nitpick, but as a poli sci major, I sometimes like to put what some consider my useless information to good use. McGovern (1972), Ford (1976), Carter (1976), Mondale (1984), Bush (1988), Dukakis (1988), Clinton (1992), Dole (1996), Bush (2000), Gore (2000) were all their respective Parties' nominees who didn't choose the primaries' runner-up for their VP. The only one that comes to mind is of recent history is Reagan picking Bush.

That being said, Kerry's choosing Edwards is a surprise in the sense that nominees who battle it out in the primaries aren't typically paired together down the road. I guess due to personal issues (if you've seen West Wing, we all know what that could lead to: Bartlet & Hoynes), just not the right combination, or fear that the person who you're putting at #2 is a little too ambitious and you KNOW they want to be replace you and be President.

However, I don't think Edwards is a surprise when you look at what he can bring. It's mostly been said so I won't reitterate. All I can say is that I'm very happy. I've had the good fortune of meeting both Senators John Kerry and John Edwards and I can say that they both capitivate the crowd in their own unique way and have differences that complement each other. That's when you know you have a good ticket. As Jeff said, we've been dreaming about a John^2 ticket for a while; I still can't believe that it's happened. Now I can't wait to see the Edwards/Cheney debate. October 5th, mark your calendars! Wow...I feel like such a dork for knowing that offhand.

Btw: take note of the new avatar