So now we take a new look at the best VP choices for Senator Obama. I do not believe it is too early to talk about this as I believe Barack will now become our Party Leader. (No offense to Hillary Clinton supporters here. She is great and as I am a loyal and lifetime Democrat, I appreciate her time in this campaign, but it is apparent that it is time for the party to come together and rally behind Barack). So let us look at what I feel is the top 7 candidates for Senator Obama.
#7) Senator Russ Feingold- My senator and one of my top political heroes, Russ is the straight talking, steel backboned, progressive patriot from my home state of Wisconsin. He does not back down from anyone, he says what he means and means what he says, period. This incredible, all midwestern ticket would be the most liberal/progressive ticket we've ever seen and it would include two of the most inspiring, eloquent and forthright personas of our modern day Democratic Party.
#6) General Wesley Clark- This one time Presidential candidate would, for all intensive purposes end the criticism against Barack that he is weak on Foreign policy items. The Repukes would be in a tough position to attack this well balanced ticket.
#5) Congressman John "Jack" Murtha- this veteran and top Democratic leader on military spending matters would be a formidable VP candidate. I'd LOVE to see the Repukes try and "swiftboat" this bulldog like fighter!
#4) Senator Bill Nelson- a play for the Florida vote? You bet. This member of the Armed Services Commitee is no slouch when it comes to foreign affairs and would make a powerful case to help Barack take more independent and moderate voters.
#3) Governor Kathleen Sebelius- Kansas Democratic Governor Kathy S. is a powerful, centrist, moderate, no-nonsense woman governor who has proven she can win over moderates and independents (after all, how does a Democrat win Kansas???). She would help heal the rift with the female vote that has been divided by this long campaign.
#2) Senator Joseph Biden- No one has more experience in Government, Foreign Policy and Monetary matters than this hard talking, strong persona. I sincerely doubt there would be any Repuke VP candidate who would want to get into a debate with this firebrand.
#1) Governor Bill Richardson- What hasn't he done? Former Cabinet Member, Former Ambassador, Excellent Governor, and the list goes on and on. Not many folks in politics with more (and diverse) experience in government. Imagine this ticket! African Americans and Hispanics join the Unions and the Poor and the Middle class independent voters... Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico most likely turn Blue this year AND it would be the first Presidental ticket made up of all "minority" candidates. Would make me wish that Dr. King and Cesar Chavez could be alive to see this!
I feel this ticket would be nearly unbeatable. Best pick of them all.
Notable (Honorable Mentions)-
*Senator Chris Dodd, Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano, Former Senator Tom Daschle