Rockefeller would be a super VP choice.
What are the pros and cons of Rockefeller on the ticket? I like that he's on the intel committee.
I've always considered Rockefeller a great Vice Presidential candidate, especially for Obama.
PROS -
1. He's from West Virginia where he is definitely popular, winning re-election with 63% of the vote in 2002.
2. Not only would he probably ensure WV for Obama, he would make things better for Obama in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Kentucky and Virginia - a crucial area. Obama doesn't need to win every state here, but he needs not to be blown out by McCain. He needs to shore support among older white-working class Democrats and Rockefeller is of definite appeal.
3. Experience - Rockefeller was Governor of West Virginia for eight years, and has been in the Senate since 1985. He's had executive and legislative experience.
4. He is a safe pair of hands should anything happen to Obama - he's been on the Intelligence Committee meaning that he can answer the GOP scaremongering about Obama's experience.
CONS -
1. His age mainly - born in 1937 so already over 70 and 72 when he becomes Vice President. If Obama plans to portray McCain as too old - look at who he's got succeeding as President.
But still I think Rockefeller would be an excellent choice, probably the best Obama could make alongside former Senators Bob Graham of Florida, Sam Nunn of Georgia and General Wesley Clark. What he needs are older white men, preferably from the South or Border states, with experience and credibility on national security.
