The Hiller Instinct: Searching for a Mate

Campaigning, John Kerry talks about everything, except a running mate.

Sen. John Kerry (D) Presidential Candidate
"I have not made a decision yet. I'm the only person who knows when I will or even what direction that may take and I intend to keep it that way."

But Kerry's long flirtation with republican Senator John McCain was louder than any comment and McCain's response was just as loud…

Sen. John McCain (R) Arizona, May 16
"Categorically, I will not be vice president of the United States. I will not be a candidate."

In a poll of voters, John Edwards is the top choice to be Kerry's second banana. The North Carolina senator has the charisma Kerry lacks, but no foreign policy experience. And he certainly seems to want the job, despite what he said just before the New Hampshire primary…

Andy Hiller
"If you don't get the nomination, would you agree... accept an offer to run for vice president?"

John Edwards
"No."

On a Las Vegas Internet site listing veepstake odds, Missouri Congressman Dick Gephardt, at five to one, tops Edwards and New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson, who are both six to one.

Two other frequently mentioned senators, Florida's Bob Graham, and Indiana's Evan Bayh are eight to one.

Andy Hiller
"Are there any circumstances under which you'd take that job?"

Wesley Clark
"No (laughs)."

The Kerry campaign has also interviewed General Wesley Clark, another former candidate, who once said bleep to veep, and Governors Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas and Tom Vilsack from Iowa.

Gov. Tom Vilsack (D) Iowa
"Anything having to do with the vice-presidential discussions ought to come from the Kerry campaign 'cause it's their choice."

Sen. John Kerry (D) Presidential Candidate
"I have promised myself and the process that I want to keep it private and personal."

With reason, Kerry doesn't forget the very public, and personally humiliating, selection process Al Gore used four years ago, when Kerry was a finalist, but didn't win.

Sen. John Kerry (D), August 7, 2000
"This is the kind of day I'm used to because I'm a Red Sox fan (laughs)."

John McCain would have been a home run for Kerry, but now that he's swung for the fences, and missed, Kerry's in danger of striking out, no matter whom he picks. Because none of the democrats is as popular as McCain, and none would be better in a debate with Dick Cheney.