I have done some serious vascillating on the issue of a potential VP choice for Obama since the early days of his announcement. Over the past year, there have been a ton of names and faces which have come into my field of vision who have been impressive. However, each potential candidate has a nagging minus, suggesting maybe there's a better, yet unconsidered, choice out there. In my view, the ticket should be a unified whole, with the VP nominee bringing to the table whatever the presidential nominee does not.
So, although I'm sure I'll feel differently next week, inspired by NoahPinto's diary "Webb for Obama VP?", I now find myself back where I started. Namely considering former Senator Bob Graham of FL to be the best choice.
Follow my rationale below the fold.
1. The Iraq War
Like Obama, most seem to forget that Bob Graham voted against the war in 2004 feeling, like Finegold, it was an obvious choice for anyone bothering to read the NIE.
2. Experience
Bob Graham served two terms as the governor of FL, and three terms as a senator. From 2001 to 2003, he served as chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee.
3. Geography
Graham is well-remembered within the state of Florida, and would help seal the rift with the FL electorate. No other choice could serve this swing state up on a platter as would Graham. Regardless of how successfull the Obama 50-state strategy turns out, flipping either FL or OH results from the 2004 changes the 2008 outcome. Game, set, and match.
4. Gravitas
Graham was widely-regarded as Kerry's #2 choice for VP in 2004. He is a respected establishment heavyweight candidate.
5. Other Considerations
While a female choice might be considered de rigeur in this era of change, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Hillary Clinton is one of the few women that could be serious contenders for that number two spot, but while he might extend her the courtesy of the offer, it is highly-unlikely she would accept. Just like there is a lot to be said for having a seasoned veteran as your backup quarterback, there is comfort in knowing that the change candidate is operating with the counsel of a wise hand who knows the old system inside and out.
Regardless of the outcome of the election, the glass ceiling for non-white or female presidential candidates can officially be considered broken. Both Clinton and Obama have successfully outdrawn their Republican counterparts in virtually every primary. FWIW, however, I am now of the opinion the only way these two will appear on a national ticket together is if it is brokered by the DNC and the super-delegates -- not such an unthinkable outcome.
Graham's nomination would not require delving into the tricky business of surrendering a seat of an existing sitting Democratic Senator, Representative, or Governor. Also, it would free Biden, who is likely near Senate retirement anyway, to fill a natural cabinet position as Secretary of State.
Graham's starting of the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida fits in perfectly with Obama's call for public service in return for subsidized tuition. His role as VP would also heighten the stature of the center, currently his pet project.
Having run for president himself in 2004, Graham is intimately familiar with the rigors of a national campaign. He is available, battle-tested, and ready.
So, when looking around the crowded field of potential VP considerates for Barack Obama, be prepared to revisit that age-old metaphysical question that shows it's relevance time and again in leading us to the answer we seek:
What about Bob ?!
Update: With respect to Bob Graham's interest in politics, his observations on the Florida Primary suggested there was still a little fire in the belly, but perhaps I'm reading into it.