Comments on: Obama’s choice – Biden or Gore seems right

By: Patrick Keegan

Patrick Keegan — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 23:28:55 +0000

I have a feeling I’m getting mocked here, but I’ll bite.

Biden ran and performed strongly in early debates. It never equated into votes, and he dropped out.

By: Phil Bailey

Phil Bailey — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 21:15:11 +0000

Ok, I get it…Biden will shore up Obama’s weaknesses on foreign policy, national security and relevant experience. Why isn’t Biden running? He would be a better candidate.

By: Eric

Eric — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:14:25 +0000

Interesting. Thanks for the insight.

By: Patrick Keegan

Patrick Keegan — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:19:45 +0000

Eric, don’t forget that Obama had some difficulty with some segments of the Democratic party – namely working class, whites. It’s not all that different from McCain’s shaky standing with the conservatives in his own party.

Picking Biden will not only shore up a perceived weakness in the areas of foreign policy and national security, but it also helps him maintain his base.

Picking Gore would cement this as a rock star ticket, and add a ton of experience, which is another soft spot for Obama.

Basically, no one, short of perhaps Colin Powell, that Obama picks will reach across the party lines. The name of the game is make sure you have your own base in line and get enough of the independents and moderates to flock to your banner.

By: Eric

Eric — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 12:59:55 +0000

Thanks for the different perspective. I understand that the issue is balancing the ticket, esp. on issues of foreign policy and national security. BUT in terms of voters, I have a hard time thinking that either of these guys firms up anyone besides Obama’s existing base. (e.g.: Is Gore respected by people who don’t already support the Dem ticket?)