Obama will vacation in Hawaii in mid-August, a much deserved break from the campaign trail. While Obama vacations, is there anyone who can carry the week for him and not miss a step? Of course, if he announces his Vice President selection before his trip, that person will be force to hit the ground running. But, if Obama does not select a VP before such time, then likely his message will be carried by surrogates. And, the last thing we need is for a whirlwind to develop because of a big gaffe by one of the surrogates. Who can be trusted to stay on message and not make a huge gaffe that breaths life into McCain's campaign?
Vacation Week Potential Surrogates.
Hillary Clinton: Hillary is good at staying on message but said some regrettable things at the end of the primary. Nevertheless, she is someone who I suspect would be very capable of hitting back hard against McCain should his campaign use the week to attack Obama.
Joe Biden: Joe Biden is also someone who can give a good punch, but Biden also punches too hard sometimes and may cause an uproar while Obama is away.
Bill Richardson: I just do not believe Richardson can stay on message. I like Richardson, but you can almost expect a gaffe or two.
John Kerry: I think Kerry would be the best person to put out there for a day or two if you want someone who can stay on message and throw a punch without causing a cycle of news. But, I am not sure if it would be good to have Kerry out there for more than a day or two because the media may begin to reminisce about 2004 and stir up unnecessary stuff.
John Edwards: John Edwards is one person who can stay on message and rarely makes a gaffe. Edwards is respected enough and can hold his own against GOP attacks.
Tim Kaine: If Kaine is selected as VP then this would be a great time for him to introduce himself to the national scene. However, I am not sure how Kaine will do.
Of course there are others who may be selected to stump during the week for Obama. It will be interesting to see who is out there during the week. I hope Obama leaves us in good hands.