RUNNING MATE RACE

The talk has shifted to Obama's search for a running mate. Lots of banter about whether he'll tab Hillary, but I think that's crazy talk and I suspect that idea goes nowhere fast. We can only hope.

Anyhow, I'm gonna throw my idea into the ring because I know that most, if not all, of the nation's prominent strategists come to The Neighborhood for most, if not all, of their political analysis.

And I embrace my role.

My choice is . . .

. . . borrowed from a suggestion Neighborhood Regular™ George made in the comments to another blog. And his suggestion was . . .

. . . Jim Webb.

Webb is, in my so very unhumble opinion, an excellent choice. He balances Obama's perceived political leanings by being a more "conservative" Democrat, one who was actually a GOPer back in the day. Plus, with his military record, he can neutralize a bit of Crazy John McCain's "war hero" thing.

(And unlike McCain, who while brave & worthy-of-respect was a "war hero" only by dint of being captured, Webb really was a war hero.)

More importantly, perhaps, Webb can bring his white southernness to the table to neutralize whatever latent racism may threaten to derail Obama's campaign. (Though in fairness, it won't do squat to neutralize the blatant racism that probably won't, but could, completely derail Obama's campaign).

Finally, I'm probably out-of-my skull on this one, but I wonder if Webb couldn't turn a solid red state blue on election day. I know Virginny's traditionally a non-starter for Dems, but with the D.C. 'burbs and a sizable Black population already somewhat in Obama's camp, couldn't Webb tilt the balance a bit?

Who knows.

Anyway, that's my mid-June thinking. I reserve the right to change my mind 43 times between now and November and America's political punditry better accept that fact. But more important at this juncture: Your Thoughts?