Jim Webb (D-VA) was one of the Democratic senators to cross the aisle and vote in favor of retroactive immunity. His name has been floated a few times on Daily Kos and elsewhere as a possible pick for Vice President. I respectfully submit that by voting in favor of retroactive immunity in favor of telecoms who broke the law and against citizens and the constitution that Jim Webb has shown himself to be a good enough senator for Virginia (certainly better than George Allen) but not quite progressive enough to run for Vice President.
I have previously expressed doubts about Senator Webb's progressive credentials and this vote should seal the deal with anybody else considering Senator Webb for a position in the next Democratic administration. Mr. Webb is a great representative for Virginia, but Americans need an administration that will roll back the encroachment on our civil liberties rather than support them. If we are to have a progressive (dare I say liberal) President we need to insist on a progressive VP, Secretary of State, Attorney General, etc. We cannot compromise on our principles because someone would help us get elected in the south or help us among "National Security Voters."
As much as I respect Jim Webb I hope he stays in the United States Senate for a long long time.