Kerry Picks Edwards

An old, rich, eastern, white lawyer picks--in classic ticket balancing--a young, rich, southern, white lawyer. Are we excited yet? A predictable choice by Kerry, Edwards is a good looking populist, but green. His one term in the Senate gives a very small target for Republicans. His class envy stump speech is more fertile ground.

While his Constitutional role is merely that of presidential stand-in, candidates these days look to a V.P. choice to add value to the ticket. Kerry's 'F' grade from the NRA will likely not be overcome simply because his running-mate delivers with a drawl. If Edwards can help Kerry in the Carolinas, Pennsylvania, Florida, or Ohio then it is a solid choice however.

Veeps are not expected to shine too brightly, and when they do the public pines for a flipped ticket. Edwards oratory may evoke this resentment with Dems eying with buyers remorse at a younger, more charismatic stumper. Time will tell what role Edwards is given and if the public reacts favorably, or too favorably, for Kerry.