I’ve seriously pooh-poohed the idea that Obama would pick Edwards as his running mate. I still think its unlikely. But man, this looks like a ticket.
I, and other people, think that Obama needs an older possibly gubernatorial person to balance his negatives but he may go the Clinton route and pick a candidate that echoes himself. If anything, the optics of two young looking candidates versus McCain would be amplified.
Edwards does appeal to some of Hillary’s supporters. But he lacks two things Obama needs in a running mate – experience and a record of winning.
I’d support that ticket, but I’m not sure it is the best option for Obama.
My ideal ticket was Edwards / Obama, so this is great for me. The few problems I have with Obama’s policy stances would be negated by tapping Edwards for the V.P. slot.
If Edwards’s speech tonight was an audition for VP, I’d say give him the job. I agree w/ Oliver about the optics.
I didn’t realize how much I missed John Edwards’s voice in this campaign. Masterful speech, powerfully delivered.
I’d love to see this ticket. The Democratic party needs new blood, and both of these men would make an unbeatable combo.
Ticket needs military cred.
I think Richardson is more likely. While AZ is too conservative to go blue. NM and CO should be in play. Former NM Governor Richardson would tilt both a bit blue.
While I like Barack and his policies (he is too conservative for me but not so much as to be a deal breaker) I caucused for him because I think he stands a better chance in the west than does Clinton. There is no way Hillary can beat McCain in Colorado or New Mexico. Obama puts both states in play. Which is why I went for him.
There is a problem – Edwards could not deliver NC in 2004 for Kerry. He is less likely to do so now. Instead, if Obama wins in November, look for Edwards as Attorney General.
I agree with kxb that Edwards would fit best as Attorney General. I think that Gen. Wesley Clark as VP would be better. It would militate against the notion of an Obama administration that’s soft on military matters or terrorism. Yes, Clark was a Clinton supporter, but I never heard him speak ill of Obama. I think he’s a loyal democrat.
There is a problem – Edwards could not deliver NC in 2004 for Kerry. He is less likely to do so now.
I’m pretty sure Obama can deliver North Carolina for Obama; Edwards would pretty much lock it.
Richardson will not get the veep slot, because two minorities is simply asking too much. Sad, but true. That’s also why I don’t think it will be a woman.
Oh please no! Edwards brought absolutely NOTHING to the last ticket he VEEPed on. He was a useless appendage in 2004. He hasn’t accomplished anything since that would give me additional credibility.
He should pick Bill Clinton.
I’m with Gyuss on this one. He was simply eye candy in 2004, and, I’m sorry, whenever I hear him speak, all I hear is “What can I do to get you in this car today?”
The Obama campaign represents a fresh start. Let’s try to keep it that way.
All of this discussion leads me back to Wesley Clark for VP. Oliver’s right, despite Richardson’s credentials and ability to help deliver the Latino vote, the backlash against two minorities would be notable.
My optimistic Democratic fantasy? Obama/Clark, with Edwards waiting in the wings to take AG, Richardson for State, and Mrs. Clinton at Health and Human Services.
Two things:
Ezra Klein summarized the event beautifully here
2) Bob Graham would be a good VP choice for Obama, at least for the first term.
I personally like Jim Webb. Military cred, ex-GOP cred (Reagan’s Sec. of Navy), and he’s likely to be willing to punch a whiny GOPer in the gob should the GOPer get too obnoxious.
Plus it would likely sew up Virginia, and Tim Kaine can appoint someone else that’s good.
Not to zombie thread, but I wonder how this picture will go over if the allegations of Edwards’ having a bastard child are true.