The American Spectator

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Political Hay

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And while the idea of an Obama/Clinton ticket might bring joy and comfort to worried Democratic hearts, it will not automatically repair the damage this bitter primary has wrought or necessarily bring victory in November.

When he does secure the nomination, Obama might want to look instead for a running mate who would offer geographic, ideological and ethnic diversity as well as the executive experience that Clinton could not.

That combination would not be predicated purely on pleasing liberal Democrats. It would actually be a ticket based on the complimentary qualifications of the two candidates.

On the other hand, given their similar ideologies (and short resumes) an Obama/Clinton ticket may not have great appeal outside of Democratic voters.

As history shows, in presidential politics once-bitter rivals can become smiling partners at the drop of a hat -- or the mere mention of the vice presidency. But hostilities and jealousies linger, and fragile coalitions can be sundered for the sake of personal ambition or political gain.

Kingmakers should know that what seems like a dream combination to the party faithful does not always seem so dreamy to the general electorate.

topics:
John McCain, Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, NATO