The GE will be won or lost by the VP selection. This will be the first and most important decision

[CK_John]

made by both nominees. In the GOP's case the reason is obvious, the age and health of their assumed nominee. In our case it will give an insight into the machine behind the curtain. It will show the faction within the party who will be making the decisions and the direction the nominee will be going.

Both nominees will be defined by their selection of the VP.

[book_worm]

1. Yes, it's a true test and I think Obama will pass it.

[NJmaverick]

2. I think the two will have a different impact

If Obama picks the right man, he will get a huge bump. That's because a good VP will compliment Obama and the team will have more experience.

With McCain the right man (or woman) wouldn't help him. The wrong one will hurt him though. Since McCain is a pretty well rounded candidate, people will looking at his VP as possible President (due to his advanced age).

[CK_John]

11. The "right man" may be a problem for Obama. n/t

[NJmaverick]

12. That wasn't an accident

I don't think voters take to change very well. Having a black man or a white woman to vote for will be plenty of change for them. I think that it would be wise to have a running mate that is a white male. I personally don't think that may produce the best team, but I think it's a team that has the best chances of being elected.

[CK_John]

13. Exactly my point the decision of the VP will control the GE because of the points

you made(very well). This year will not be a rubber stamp election.

[thereismore]

3. No. Obama v McCain is contrast enough. nt

[gateley]

7. Well you have a point there. nt

[totodeinhere]

4. Historically, VP choices have made no difference one way or the other.

Look at 1988. Papa Bush put Dan Quayle on the ticket and he still won.

I doubt if it will be any different this time.

[CK_John]

9. The microscope will be much larger this year. n/t

[mkultra]

5. i woudl like to see edwards brought in

or at the least, Clark.

[gateley]

6. It's probably more a factor in this election than in any other.

For those who have questions about Obama's "experience", will that person bring the heft?

For those concerned about Bill being co-president, will that person be able to be strong enough to resist his presence?

More aspects that make this the most interesting election EVER.

[LibDemAlways]

8. Hoping that McCain feels the need to solidify his

support with the wingnut fringe by choosing Huckabee. There are so many turds in the GOP bowl, however, that almost anyone he picks is going to be vile, disgusting, and totally unacceptable.

[BeyondGeography]

10. The VP choice would never have meant a thing for Hillary for two reasons

1. Bill
2. Bill