I realize that many Obama supporters want to wait until Obama is the official nominee before thinking about potential Vice-Presidents. Certainly, nothing is guaranteed in politics. However, if we wait much longer, the Obama campaign will be making decisions for the general election without our input. As we know, the people on this site are the wisest, smartest, sexiest people in politics.
Enumerated below please find a list of names of potential running mates for Barack that have been floated in the media. I have tried to address the primary advantages and concerns for each name. Please add your analysis and suggestions.
(1) Elmer Fudd.
While adding Mr. fudd to the ticket could bring some truck driving, beer-drinking hunters to Obama and give Obama more rural cred, Fudd would drive rabbits and other prey to McCain in droves. Moreover, as insensitive as this may sound, what about that speech impediment? JC Watts, Mike Huckabee or almost any other McCain running mate would win a debate in a rout. Short answer: No.
(2) Bob the Builder
Obviously, the "Yes, we can" plagiarism scandal would fade when Bob admits that he agreed, or in fact, encouraged Barack to use the slogan. Bob would also help keep blue-collar workers in the Democratic tent, and he has a record of accomplishments, knowing how to get things done. In addition, he is great on gender issues--think about how much he depends on and gives credit to Wendy--so NOW and other Hillary-supporting organizations should find him acceptable. On the other hand, is the "hugging the elementary children too long at the Bob the Builder stage show" scandal really over or just in hibernation? Short answer: Yes, Obama should seriously consider Bob.
(3) Donald Duck.
The media is talking about Donald because he has such a likeable personality and sense of humor, but taking a chance on Donald's temper is simply too risky. All McCain would have to say is "Do you REALLY want to take the chance that Donald Duck will have his finger on The Button?" Of course, Donald does not have any fingers, but the point will be made nonetheless. Short answer: No.
(4) Owl from Winnie the Pooh
Owl would clearly balance out Obama with all of his experience and wisdom. Owl would also carry the Hundered Acre Wood for Obama. However, no one likes a know-it-all. In addition, Owl has several close relations with the British, and the Republicans will be able to paint Owl as a foreigner-loving elite. Republicans will also call Owl an exaggerator, and we all know how that will go, right Mr. Gore? Short answer: Probably not.
(5) Tweety Bird
The obvious advantage here is all the adoration and positive press Obama would get from Chris Matthews. Also, thanks to his relationship with his owner, Tweety can connect to elderly women. Tweety does has a speech impediment, but unlike Fudd's, Tweety's impediment is not an automatic disqualifer. Fudd's impediment makes him appear plain stupid. However, polling has shown that Tweety Bird's impediment is seen as sensitive and cute by women. If Obama believes he has other ways to secure men's votes, Tweety could be going to Washington. Short answer: Maybe.
(6) Mickey Mouse.
Mickey is certainly the safest choice for Barack. Mickey is as American and apple pie as...well.....Mickey Mouse. Minnie would also be great on the campaign trail and would balance out anything controversial said by Michelle Obama. The biggest negative about Mickey is that he could upstage Obama. In addition, having Mickey at his side will invariably make the media draw comparisons between Barack and Walt Disney. That is the big unknown in this analysis: Would Americans look fondly on Barack, seeing a little Walt in him, or would Barack fail to meet Americans lofty, sentimental memories of Walt? Short answer: Yes, Mickey will be one of the two finalists.