Possible Barack Obama Running Mates

Who Has the Best Chance or Who Gives Obama the Best Chance

Not much press has been given to the potential candidates of the Democratic frontrunners in this primary season, possibly due to all the press given all the dirt being flung by reporters and candidates alike. Who could get a word in edgewise through that swirling mudstorm? About the only mention of running mates has been by deadline-driven reporters and euphoric Democrat-oriented bloggers of a "dream team," the quintessential matchup of Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, a suggestion that has been relegated to an argument over one candidate's marginalization and fealty to the other.

But who would make a good running mate for Barack Obama, if he holds on to his delegate lead at the Democratic National Convention in Denver and becomes the party choice for president? Who is best suited to be his vice-president and a potential replacement? Who would make his candidacy for president stronger by their inclusion on the ballot in November?

The first name that emerges, of course, is that of Senator Hillary Clinton. Having resorted to attack politics to remain a very close second in the delegate count for the Democratic presidential nomination, some see Clinton as Obama's only real choice as vice-president to heal the divided party. Senator Clinton brings with her a lifetime of political experience and that awesome Clinton political machine, not to mention Bill Clinton, who is still a much beloved figure among Democrats. She would also bring with her considerable baggage (scandals and controversies and, well, her husband, the former president) that might become a problem for Obama when the Democrats go head-to-head with the crushingly brutal GOP spinning machine. And given the bitterness with which many conservatives view the former First Lady, she may be more of a distraction and political liability, costing the Illinois senator precious votes with moderates and independents, than the Obama campaign can handle. Still, Senator Clinton would be a powerful ally if Obama is elected president.