In case you are not up on your Lincoln history, Abe appointed four of his major political rivals to serve in his cabinet: Samuel Chase, Simon Cameron, William Seward, and Edward Bates. When appointed to their positions, each of these men held pretty much the same opinion of Lincoln: He was not even fit to be elected Dog-Catcher and the Presidency should have been theirs.
These men didn't hold back anything and Lincoln knew what they thought of him when he appointed them. He was so sure of himself, though, he didn't care. Lincoln knew they could help him save the union and he was going to save the union. By the time he was assassinated, Lincoln had won them over and they considered Lincoln an amazing man and were in awe of him.
So, what does this have to do with the VP slot, you ask...
Well, let me first say that I supported Hillary from the beginning and was very disappointed she lost. I wasn't that enthralled with Obama during the primaries, although I thought he would be a perfect candidate for VP.
Since Hillary's concession, though, my opinion of Obama has changed. After finally focusing on him and his message, I think I am beginning to understand what he is about and trying to accomplish. I am starting to believe that Obama is the real thing, as was Abraham Lincoln.
Remember that Obama is a Senator from Illinois and Illinois is the Land of Lincoln. Obama started his campaign in front of the Old Capital Building where Lincoln gave his "House Divided" speech and greeted fellow citizens after he received word that he was elected President.
On Saturday, Obama is going to be appearing with his nominee in front of the same Old State Capital Building which is across the street from the Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices where Lincoln practiced law.
Could it really be true that the Old State Capital Building is not just being used as a political prop? Does Obama really want to emulate Lincoln???
So, back to my original question: Who would Lincoln pick to be his VP?
Obviously, Lincoln would not be concerned about whether that person had campaigned against him or said terrible things about him. Further, the fact that Lincoln could not "control" or "manage" the person would not exclude them. Bottom line is that Lincoln would put the country first and ask the person with the most to offer.
This afternoon, when asked about his selection, Obama mentioned something to the effect that it "is not about ego." The pundits on TV then went on to talk about how Obama didn't want a VP with an ego or someone who would show him up.
If you know Lincoln and believe Obama is really trying to emulate him, you understand that Obama meant that he wasn't going to let his own ego get in the way of selecting the person with the most to offer the country!
There is no question in my mind that Obama is going to pick Hillary because she has been an opponent and critic. Lincoln would do no less.