McCain’s Choice – May Preempt Obama - Joe Lieberman?!

Politico and Matt Drudge are both hinting at a McCain campaign leak tonight at approximately 6:00 PM – John McCain’s vice-presidential choice. The leak would be timed to send news houses into a tizzy. The question: how can networks cover two major political events effectively – Obama’s speech under a triumphal arch (or Temple), and the naming of McCain's running mate - one that some sources are indicating is an “unconventional choice.” Regardless of choice, the timing of a leak is an exceptional chess move on the part of the campaign.

McCain is known as a maverick because of his ability to part ways with the Republican Party when he feels strongly about any given issue. He's done this since he first took office. Given his history, he will most likely choose the running mate he wants – not one driven by a political motive, rather one that he feels is best suited to the task and in the best interest of the country.

The possibility of Joe Lieberman running as a Vice-President (a second time) is not out of the question. Other names being bandied about are: Pawlenty (safe), Ridge (conservative – somewhat unsafe), Romney (conservative- somewhat safe), Lieberman (Independent – a maverick – actually - safe). How would a Lieberman V.P. choice affect the party? From a moderate perspective, Joe Lieberman would appeal to those moderate Democrats who were previously wed to the Clintons – the working class, non-progressive Democrats, the Reagan Democrats – and most importantly, the Independents. Lieberman may push extreme right conservatives to the wall, but in retrospect, those who are smart enough to know that an Obama presidency can not be tolerated would eventually warm to Joe. Win-Win.