Monday, May 12, 2008
Strickland as Obama’s V.P. Talk Heats Up
Governor Ted Strickland is being talked up in the national media as a strong vice presidential option for Barack Obama. Earlier in the campaign, the prevailing thought was that Strickland needed a Clinton win to earn serious V.P. consideration, but his ability to deliver Ohio to Team Clinton and Obama’s need to reach out to Clinton supporters has elevated Strickland’s status in the Veepstakes. Of course, there are other options, including Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell and Virginia Senator Jim Webb. Strickland also would have to answer questions about his head-bobbing while a fiery Clinton chided Obama campaign stop after campaign stop. That’s a fairly minor obstacle in consideration of the boost Strickland could give Obama in Ohio and elsewhere. Strickland has previously said he’s not interested in the V.P. slot.
Strickland spokesperson Amanda Wurst read me the official position on the phone, saying “In the words of General William Tecumsah Sherman, ‘If drafted I will not run, if nominated I will not accept, if elected I will not serve.’ “
It should be noted that that is the same quote that Strickland’s people rolled out in the beginning of the primary season when Clinton was the favorite and Strickland was rumored to be one of her top V.P. options. In other words, the quote hasn’t changed because Strickland hasn’t given the topic any more public consideration.
Don’t expect the rumor mill to die down soon, though. Not until Strickland’s value to the Democratic party fades. The Marc Dann drama may have an influence on that.
