June 10, 2008
Posted: June 10th, 2008 08:15 AM ET

From ,
Jim Johnson and other members of Obama’s VP search team took to Capitol Hill Monday.
Jim Johnson and other members of Obama’s VP search team took to Capitol Hill Monday.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – Members of Sen. Barack Obama's vice presidential search team had a "good, long discussion" with top House and Senate Democratic leaders on Capitol Hill over potential running mates Monday, one participant said.

Two members of the team, James Johnson and Eric Holder, met with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid for just over 30 minutes before heading over to speak with House leaders, a senior Democratic aide told CNN. They wrapped up their sessions Monday evening after a meeting with House Democratic Caucus Chairman Rahm Emmanuel, leaving without answering reporters' questions.

But House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said he had a "good, long discussion" with Johnson and Holder and added, "They mentioned a lot of names."

"What they're doing is talking to, I think, a lot of people about the alternatives and views that people have about the alternatives," said Hoyer, D-Maryland. Asked whether anyone raised the possibility that Obama's former rival, Sen. Hillary Clinton, could be on the ticket, he responded, "I think it would be reasonable to assume that all of the alternatives were considered."

One aide described the meetings as a chance for the Obama campaign "to show respect for party leaders and ask advice." The aide downplayed the significance of the meetings, noting there have been similar consultations in previous elections.

Obama, the Democrats' presumptive nominee, told CNN last week that he will not rush the selection of a running mate. He said he will "be deliberate and systematic about it, because this will be my final counselor when I am making decisions in the White House, and I want to make sure I get it right."

In addition to Johnson and Holder, Caroline Kennedy is on Obama's vice presidential advisory team.

Filed under: Barack Obama


Very Objective Independent American   June 9th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Wow, can any objective person deny that Obama is likely to be one of the best presidents ever?

1. Compare the way he's already handling his VP selection in 1 week to how John McCain has handled his in the past 3 months. A committee? Wow...

2. Compare the way he run his historic campaign as a virtual unknown against the 2 most powerful people in the Democratic party – people who had the Democratic establishment in their pocket before the race began...

3. Compare the way he's already instilling changes in the DNC (such as no lobbyists money etc) to how McCain has handled the RNC. I don't even think McCain knows he's the boss of the party now...

Open-minded Americans, Please give Obama a chance... The more I pay attention to him, the more I'm willing to give him a chance. Yes, he's not a proven quantity, but McCain is a proven quantity – proven to be 95% like George Bush!

think people   June 9th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Obama should *not* choose Hillary. It would be damaging to his ticket and divisive. However, Hillary supporters should understand that she probably doesn't want that job anyway–too much of a sinecure (empty position. Forgive me for defining–couldn't think of a synonym and didn't want to be obnoxious). She should take a position that gives her the ability to effect the changes and agendas she wants to, since she and O agree on so much and her platforms are largely his too. I hope that is what happens, for the good of his candidacy and the good of this race.

ann   June 9th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

no way, she is toxic, not trustworthy and is not change. Except for being a woman she is not change. We are looking to the future not what was.

Mary   June 9th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

No way he'll get elected unless he choses Hillary!

Strategist in Athens   June 9th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

Excellent. Taking his time, going through the vetting process as any other nominee would. Now if people could stop reporting on it for awhile, they could really get some work done. :-) After all, a watched pot never boils.

C-Lo in Texas, Obama 08   June 9th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

what ever happened to this being his decision and his decision alone. anynomous he does not need your help..... thank you very much

The O   June 9th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

BARACK / SEBELIUS 08

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!!!

anon   June 9th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

What's the deal with all these "bitter" folks saying choose Hillary. There are more qualified folks out there who would make a better VP. Hitlary supporters should chill!

mr.st.louis   June 9th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

all these republicans posing as hillary supporters will only make democrats stronger

just call me right   June 9th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

They're wasting their time.
Obama will never be elected no matter who else is on the ticket.
They might as well take the summer off and get suntans.

Jan   June 9th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

Hillary should never take 2nd spot to that phoney!

No McCain   June 9th, 2008 8:38 pm ET

Good way to do it Obama.... search systematically and thorougly... without being pushed around by media or anyone else... it is about the future of America to choose the right person as ur VP. I trust your judgement.

Bam   June 9th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

wouldn't hurt.

Jay   June 9th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

Obama should select the candidate that best supports his policies and ideals. A lot candidates should be considered including Hillary.

Dave   June 9th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

The VP will be offered to Hillary and she will decline.

Frank in Tampa   June 9th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

Obama needs to pick someone he is comfortable with and can TRUST. He does not need a co-president, and if he picks Hillary, he gets two for the price of one!

Iam4mycountry   June 9th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

I am glad that Obama is not giving into pressure. He should choose whom ever he thinks is best. If that is Hillary then great; If not then I am sure he will choose the right person for him.

AnybodyBut Hillary   June 9th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

Why do we want to load the boat with damaged goods ?
eg. Hillary's arrogance and Bill's baggage ?
Can't we get a woman VP without so much baggage ?
For example governors Kathlen Seibellus from Kansas or Janet Napolitano from Arizona ?

Ken Pittsburgh   June 9th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

obama should choose who he thinks will be the best choice for the party and if he wins the best chice for the country

Sue Ann   June 9th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

We need Jim Webb on the ticket. A former Republican, a war hero, Secretary of the Navy under Reagan, from the swing state of Virginia, against the war in Iraq. Obama-Webb '08. Now, that's a winning ticket!

westerner22   June 9th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

I hope the result of this systematic search by the committee will be a real dream ticket, where the VP would enhance Senator Obama's candidacy without the baggage that Senator Clinton on the ticket would bring as well. Senator Clinton is not a candidate of Change and would undermine the message of Senator Obama. His supporters are furthermore suspicious of her, due to her choice of negative campaigning, by which she had lost. She started from much better position than Barack Obama, and that included her husband's name. The way she campaigned indicates lack of true management skills. She is left with enormous debt now. And as simple as that: there are better women candidates that Clinton, but can democrats risk and pair two non-traditional choices on the ticket. Governor Sebelius of Kansas is one of these women, but she is also young enough to wait to run for presidency in eight years.
Zbigniew Brzezinski last week about Hillary Clinton as a VP: “government in waiting”.

IowaisFirst   June 9th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

Anon- you are definitely ahead of the learning curve.

By choosing Senator Clinton, Senator Obama will achieve his goal of "change". You are absolutely quixotic in your thought process. Those that believe in such nonsense have been ostriches buried in the sand while these two campaigns have relentlessly torn one another apart. Lets unite as a Democratic party and for vantage, lets not look behind but towards the future. There ARE more qualified veeps other then Senator Clinton and the selection process will show that fact.

allie   June 9th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

Please do not choose Hillary. She is the reason why her supporters are so divisive and now stupidly say they will vote for McCain. If she had run a cleaner campaign, they would want to unify except the racist ones – those are ignorant and backward. If Obama loses, I blame Hillary!!!!

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT!   June 9th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

I Will Trust Your Judgement On Your Selection For Vice President. I Have A Couple Of Favorites In Mind. . . And One That I Would Really Hate To See On The Ticket! You Have Shown Sound Judgement In My Mind So Keep At It!

hjecd6   June 9th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

I think it is good that Obama is taking his time choosing a vice president. I am not quite sure if he should put Hillary on the ticket but I think she could fit in his cabniet.

F.MUTOONI   June 9th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Obama should choose Hilary to save the Party and to eliminate the third Bush–Mc Cain.
However, this lady must be tamed because she is a poison to Obama based on all what she said during her campaign

amelia   June 9th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

I question why an aide feels the need to say "to show respect for party leaders and ask advice". It would be helpful to readers if CNN would print the name of the individual or who's aid rather than say "an aide".

Mary, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin   June 9th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

He needs a white male with military experience, who is more "middle of the road" than Obama. The candidate should probably not be a Washington-insider, so he can stay true to his message of "change."

Thomas   June 9th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

Obama / Webb
Obama / Hagel
Obama / Bayh
Obama / Bob Graham

frank farrell   June 9th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

Sorry obama you have to convince Hillary to be your VP. oTHERWISE YOUR ELECTORAL HOPES BECOME GREATLY DIMINISHED. This is not any other election year. You stole the show but Hillary got a honorable mention. She convinced voters in states like Indiana, West Virginia, and many others to vote for her even though her campaign was a lost cause. She has many supporters that will only go to you with her in the ticket. If you are the great change and uniter candidate than you will get her into the fold and forget the Kennedys and the like who are from a differnt era and still trying to get top billing.

An Independent Hillary   June 9th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

If Obama does not chose Hillary, myself and a lot of others will chose McCain

Georg   June 9th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

Obama should choose Hillary!
Agree!

gman   June 9th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

Governor Kathleen Sebelius is the best pick. She will fill in all of Obama's weaknesses and balance the ticket.

Obama/Sebelius 08/12

Sebelius/?? 16/20

samantha (obama intern)   June 9th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

Although I'd rather not see Hillary on the ticket, I'm worried it's something that needs to be done in order to win over bitter, Hillary supporters.

Anon   June 9th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

Obama should NOT choose Hillary!

Michael   June 9th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

I think his taking a long and serious path to determining the best VP candidate is absolutely the right thing to do. If he were to quickly pick Clinton, he could certainly be accused of making knee-jerk decisions without taking the time to consider all the options and rationally deciding on the best.....something everyone would like to see after 8 years of Bush Lite. If at the end of the day he picks Clinton, it will be after following due process.......if not, the same can be said.

JayJay718   June 9th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

he better choose Hillary so dems get a landslide in 2008 and Hillary will run in 2016 (as agent of change part two with a new image) Dems in the white house for 12 years 2009-2021.

Sandy   June 9th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

Clinton is the best candidate for the ticket. What a historic change this would bring. A powerhouse combination!

chrls   June 9th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

as a rep..i'm voting for OB... John MCcain is senile and doesn't represent our values..he forgets everything he says and is pondering to the left

Dancindukes   June 9th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

Please Please have Bill Richardson on the short list!!! He would be a great boost to the ticket.

What if?   June 9th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

That's right Obama.... Give respect, get respect.

Clinton supporter, you think the republicans (John McCain) care about you? They are playing on your anger and will use you as leverage to win in November. I was not a Clinton supporter, but I am a democrat and found this to be unacceptable for both candidates. Senator Dole said “Democrats had to choose between one candidate who said she’d obliterate Iran and another candidate who said he wants to invite Iranian leaders over for dinner and then maybe a chat after dinner with a good cigar—Cuban. I’d imagine. I don’t want EITHER of those two answering the White House telephone at 3 o’clock in the morning”. “We’re going to have to fight the ideal that this is a historic opportunity to elect Barack Obama” said Huckabee. “I salute how far he’s gone, but as far as I’m concerned, because of his views and what he would do --he’s gone far enough for me this year”. Some of you are selfish enough to agree in anger, so this is for the ones who want to vote democrat, please let's unite for the sake of us, our children and those who fight a war that was a lie. We are proud to be a democrat voters.

Obama keep doing what you are doing....they are running scared.
The DNC was right, two well experience and terrific candidates that can beat McBush in November. If not, we can all blame the republicans flunkies

No McSame   June 9th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

I can live with Hillary as VP. They would make a good team even if we their supporters don't. If we don't find some middle ground McSame and the Bush policies will continue. The devil will creep in through the back door and once the dust clears it will be too late.

Max   June 9th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

I hope he chooses Hillary. An other good choice would have been John Edwards, but he doesn't seem to want to run again. Of course Richardson, Rendell, etc.... are good choices, but an Obama-Clinton would be the most credible, in terms of both political change and experience.

Liz   June 9th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

On Obama choosing Hellary: You cannot put new wine into an old bottle, "else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved." Jesus said that.

DFoster Georgia   June 9th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

Hillary will be his VP solection.

Patrick   June 9th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Sebelius all the way to Penn Ave.

MJC   June 9th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Obama/Clinton '08! The unity ticket....the unbeatable combination.

ME   June 9th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

I totally agree ! He shouldn't be looking around too much or he risks loosing the election. If he is so good and so smart he would put Hillary on the ticket, he needs her!!! This is not working out for him!!

Anonymous   June 9th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Obama should choose Jim Webb!

Chris, Phoenix, AZ   June 9th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

If Obama chooses Hillary, he'd better make sure the locks work well at the White House and sleep with one eye open!

SW   June 9th, 2008 8:25 pm ET

No HRC! No Contons!!!

Joe   June 9th, 2008 8:25 pm ET

wow, look how honorable Obama is. He is respecting his fellow workmates. This shows how this goverment will be efficient in the future.

matt   June 9th, 2008 8:25 pm ET

obama best chance for sure win is to get hillary as his vp

blotin   June 9th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Hasn't Hillary proven herself to be more than qualified for this position? Wouldn't it be ironic not to choose someone who already has 8 million votes?

Perusing-through   June 9th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

It was just recently when Senator Obama was in a cross-country flight, he stated his VP search team has commenced. Obama went on to say there would be no word from the search team regarding the status of any nominees or the status of the search itself. Obama ended the conversation stating that the next words on the matter of VP would come from his own mouth to announce the search team's result. Obama wrapped it up by saying any other words coming from any other person other then himself would be rumors and without credibility.

So I guess Mr. Steny Hoyer has some explaining to do. You would expect the House Majority Leader to be a better role model and show people how to be discreet. Yes, it may seem like Steny's comments is just a little thing, but if everyone the search team spoke with provided just a tiny bit of information, any kid with a grade school education can put the pieces together and know the results and status of the search before Obama can make the announcement.

It would be nice if people can apply discretion during this search and vetting process, so we don't get any unnecessary drama during this very important procedure.

Thanks for being understanding.

Danny   June 9th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

Unite the party! Choose Hillary!

Mike - Ventura, CA   June 9th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

I am sure that he will do this the right way. I would like to see JOE BIDEN as VP or Sec. of State! There are many good choices. I don't honestly think Senator Clinton is a good choice. I think she would make a great Majority Leader or Cabinet member, or Supreme Court Justice. We Democrfats have many gifted people!

Gretchen   June 9th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

... or not!

Kristi, MD   June 9th, 2008 8:22 pm ET

Anyone but Hillary

Friedrich   June 9th, 2008 8:22 pm ET

Ummm, no he should not. Her weaknesses are too plenty. She has thrown to hard of punches to expect to be able to buddy up with Obama.

Ronaldo   June 9th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

I'll do what a past President did and release the names of the people who ill not be considered for the V.P slot..and the number one name on the list is 1. Hillary Clinton. the sooner I dont have to see or hear her or Bills face or voice the better....

Sharon T   June 9th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

At first I had my doubts about Clinton being a good running mate because I did not like the way she campaigned, but after her speech I was convinced that Hillary and Barak would make a heck of a team! If the democrats are serious about getting back into the White House, I think that these two would be great for the party as well as for the nation. I don't think that you can loose with the two of them.

Donna   June 9th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

Obama should not choose Hillary. Give her a cabinrt position.

sylvia   June 9th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

If he should pick Hillary I hope she refuses because she can do more good for us where she is and maybe in 4 years when the country is even more all to hell if Obama with his no experience gets in , then Hilary will be able to beat him. Actually she beat him this time if one realizes Michigan and Florida all went for her and was not counted.
I hope the big mouthed news anchors are happy they have chosen our nomination. However, when McCain gets thru with him I doubt if he can win..I AM A DIE HARD DEMOCRAT BUT PLAN TO VOTE FOR MCCAIN. Hillary was treated way to unfairly for me to go along with this radical set of democrats.

jim   June 9th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

No on Hillary is a no on Obama . We will get something out of this mess.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   June 9th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

All alternatives are being considered and there are many highly qualified people as well as Hillary.

S callalan   June 9th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

I had hoped for John Edwards as his VP but I understand John doesn't want that spot...so ...willl it be???? I have mixed feelings about Hillary as VP, not that she isn't suitable..I just think she'd be more effective elesewhere in Government. I wish we had some names thrown out there so we could start our internet searches...vetting if you will...:-)

maryann   June 9th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

you can come up with all the names you want. He will not win without Senator Hillary Clinton. The dems think her voters are going to come around by nov. I would be very nervous. I am a Canadian and watched this primary process from the start. She was treated awful by the media, the party and her so called friends. The least the superdelegates could have done before pushing him over the edge was to wait till the polls closed that last Tuesday.Then she was trashed for not conceding right away. Why in every other election was everyone else given 4 months. Then all the calls for her to drop out of the race. Need I go on? She was the better candidate and as she was winning the superdelegates were going towards him. Why is that? Well you live with the choice you made. I feel she owes the party nothing. As for Nancy Pelosi, Howard Dean and Harry Reid God help America. But that is just my opinion and I am sure as a Canadian it means even less than the 18 million people who voted for her. Needless to say I will not be watching any more unless I hear her name.

Leah DiMarco, Texas   June 9th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Obama should pick Governor Kathleen Sebelius!

john   June 9th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Me first.

Charlene   June 9th, 2008 8:18 pm ET

Mr. Anonymous...he should chose Hillary if he wants to work in the White House with one hand tied behind his back...and then there is Slick Willy. Not a good idea and I trust that Obama will do what is best for the party and the country.

john witherspoon   June 9th, 2008 8:18 pm ET

Let me throw my name into the race. That is the polical race. Not the race race. I am white.

Susan   June 9th, 2008 8:18 pm ET

We hope Hillary is picked.

They could pull their votes together and beat McCain.

Obama/Hillary !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous   June 9th, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Obama should choose Hillary!

mr.st.louis   June 9th, 2008 8:15 pm ET

take your time and get it right

Allen Richards   June 9th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Here's hoping they're considering General Wesley Clark.

Dems poll your Base   June 9th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Oprah and Kennedy will only sway the people who follow celebrity endorsements and are willing to give away their one vote to the celebrity opinions.

Most of us lifelongs don't give a hoot. We knew the real deals: JFK, MLK, RFK. We ARE the marchers and the protestors of 1968- 1972.

We won't fall for imitators pushed on us by the media.

Former Republican   June 9th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

I trust he will take his time and get it right he has a skill for doing things the right way, the best way and the most effective way.

Ula Nejad   June 9th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Why should Hillary Clinton sell herself short? She suspended her campaign in high fashion and should not allow some vote beggars like Obama's campaign take that historic moment away from her. Hillary has nothing to lose to Obama. Her fame and legacy cost her $11.4 million but it was worth the money Hillary. Tell the Obamas and his supporters to keep it. You have all the time to make a re-run on the world stage. Women all over the world and at home need you to be our champion and take it to the finish line. God bless you and your family.

Elias   June 9th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Obama will make a mistake picking Hillary , although she worked hard ,he needs someone more compatible to his views ,and vision.....

Victor in Saanich, B.C. Canada   June 9th, 2008 8:12 pm ET

AS long as the name Clinton was discussed and quickly rejected, the time wasn't a total loss!! I wish Edwards would reconsider!!

DrCats   June 9th, 2008 8:10 pm ET

I think its great that he is really searching and asking the party elders what they think, we all realize its his decision to make but he is doing his homework...

A politician thinking, using judgement, thinking of others, consulting those who have different points of view, wow, this is eerie...

Ian   June 9th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

They should do an American Idol sort of thing. That might be kinda boring though, considering the primaries were already like that.

Gerard Sorme   June 9th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

General Wesley Clark.

Stephen, Las Vegas, NV.   June 9th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

I hope if Obama is really about change and not just utlizing a much of rhetoric just to get voted in like his predecessors. Then he should choose experts in the country that are well established in their professions–no career politicians like Hillary or her collegues (such as Warren Buffett for Secretary of Treasury). Otherwise, he is all words and no action!!!!

JD   June 9th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

It doesn't matter who is on the list, if hillary isn't on the ticket he won't win the election, which he doesn't deserve.

K of TX   June 9th, 2008 8:04 pm ET

I am very impressed with the discipline of the Obama campaign. I think a lot more pundits should stop talking about why Hillary lost and give credit to Obama's campaign for outperforming any other campaign in history.

Toot   June 9th, 2008 8:03 pm ET

Many of Senator Clinton's supporters are not going to vote for Obama if she is not on the ticket. People keep saying that our minds will be changed or that it is Republicans out here saying that they won't support him. Wake up DNC and Obama supporters..the best candidate was not selected and we feel that she was railroad and he received a free ride. We want the best candidate for our country and it is not him!!
Obama supporters have been rude and crude towards Senator Clinton and her supporters and it will hurt him in the long run. As well as his wife being proud of her country for the first time..

Joyce in Florida   June 9th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

I hope Obama makes a decision soon. He should weigh in everything that has been brought to this campaign and really think about all that has happened this past year and a half. I would hope that he makes the right decision if democrats are to be in the White House. And I hope that he shows more diplomacy and respect to current or past candidates until this race is over. Make the RIGHT decision, Senator Obama. STILL WANTING HILLARY CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT!

Kansasboy   June 9th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Clinton, Richardson, Nunn, Sebelius, whoever – it doesn't matter. I've always voted as a democrat and I always will.

Let's rid ourselves of the Republican elephant beast. They will only flush the everyman for their own interests.

Barack Obama – 2008

Bobby in BR   June 9th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Despite the blatantly racist and hateful remarks showcased in the comments of this blog, I believe the majority of the country will vote for Senator Obama. His is an amazing story and, being bi-racial, he has a unique perspective on what race truly means in this country. Senator Clinton's concession speech was truly outstanding and I believe the majority of her supporters will follow her lead and support the Democratic ticket in November. I do not believe these small-minded posts that CNN allows to be posted on this blog actually come from adult voters. They are more likely posted by ignorant and immature children.

As far as the VP goes – I think Obama would do well to select a woman for his running mate. Clinton needs to prove that she can rein in her husband before she can be considered, in my opinion. If she does end up being the selection I will still happily vote for the Democrats this year. We MUST address health care, we MUST get out of this war.

Mubasir Mundia   June 9th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Obama/Hagel 08 - Unite the Country

Rick Short   June 9th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Good job.

Rep.   June 9th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

McCain would have crushed Hillary. We don"t need your support to beat Nobama. You sound like a bunch of old hags.

McCain 08

Lawrence Mergen   June 9th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

A lot of Obama supporters like myself want to know if Hillary Clinton is going to be the vice president for Obama. If she is not then we will resume our periodic donations and campaign for him again. If Hillary Clinton is chosen as the vice president then we can go on and support another candidate like Ralph Nadar.

Corey   June 9th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

He had better pick someone with substantial foreign policy experience because Obama's lack of diplomatic experience will be a crucial vulnerability in his race against McCain. Let's not forget that we are at war and hence the next president will be a war time president.

Mark of Minneapolis   June 9th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Caroline Kennedy for VP.

M.S. Indiana   June 9th, 2008 7:56 pm ET

Hope for all of us !!!! Lets see some new faces this year tho...
Dont just look for VP, look for the whole house !!!

time to elect a few more Democrats into office and end the republican regime of fear and war

Nick in Wilmington   June 9th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

A good pic for Obama...

Kathleen Sebelius – Two Term Governor of Kansas.

She supported more education for Kansas, Health care for Kansas, and is very environment friendly and conscious. Being a two term Democrat Governor from a RED state is an accomplishment.

Her website can give more information on her achievements and beliefs.

A red state governor, with 6 electoral votes is always good, plus adding a female wouldn't hurt any either.

Jac   June 9th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

I think this is a smokescreen-there is no way he won't pick Clinton. The unity of the party depends on it and this way , he's giving the appearance he's not being bullied which I don't think he is-but bank it, it will be Hillary. The republicans are praying it won't happen because if it does...lights out!

Robert New York City & Miami, Florida   June 9th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

I HOPE HE DOES NOT OFFER HILLARY THE VICE.

I WANT HIM TO SINK BY HIMSELF.

SamSunny   June 9th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Make a list of those categories where Obama needs support and see who fits most of the needs. Hillary may not be strong in those areas where Obama needs to bolster his appeal, such as military, foreign affairs, economy. I thought Hillary may be good, but after more consideration, I think maybe she wouldn't be the strongest. Get someone who has personality. John McCain makes me fall asleep.

SC lady   June 9th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

If Obama wants to win, there's only ONE candidate they need to look at....HILLARY!

Kelvin   June 9th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

As a previous uncommitted voter – I can now say that I will vote democratic for the first time since 1976. McCain is not going to change the course of where we're going, so I'll be voting for Obama!

R   June 9th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

I'm sure Hillary is on the list, but the thing is are they really considering her.

Vig   June 9th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

And we all know Hillary's is only on the list to placate her throngs of supporters. WRITE HRC IN TO WIN on your November ballot.

Tony, Enterprise, Alabama   June 9th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Attention Obama search team...

I am a staunch Democrat, and staunch Clinton supporter.

She has earned the nomination, and barring that the VP nomination. But know this. Your candidate is tainted by the brush of Wright, Ayers, and Rezco. Even if Hillary were the VP I would find it very difficult to vote for Obama!

Your candidate is far from perfect...think hard...choose well!

NEVEROBAMA   June 9th, 2008 7:47 pm ET

It better be Hillary – Tell me why would Obama select Caroline Kennedy for his advisory team? What does she know about politics?

Talk about poor judgement!

NEVER EVER OBAMA

J. Cox   June 9th, 2008 7:46 pm ET

I think appointing a Search Committee speaks volumes to Senator Obama's good judgment and leadership abilities. I believe he should exercise all of his options. In the final analysis, I don't feel Clinton is a huge agent for change, but I think she would make a wonderful cabinet member. The Democratic party must win b/c our country is in absolute peril. There is no room for error. He must choose wisely.

Sam Houston, GA   June 9th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Take your time, folks. No hurry. Just be sure to get it correct the first time.

Don't let ANYONE HOLD US HOSTAGE in this. Thanks, folks.

joseph   June 9th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Good, it sounds like the dems are going about this the right way. There is no need to rush to select a VP. They should discuss several names and then formulate a short list. Presumably HRC would be on the short list and should be given consideration because it would show that Obama is magnanimous, gracious and diplomatic. Other names to consider would be Webb, Sebelius, Richardson and Pelosi. Everyone on the list should be vetted. The pluses, minuses, strengths and weaknesses of all the short list candidates should be considered. How each potential candidate could help with the electoral map and restore party unity should be considered.

Dan (Redmond, WA)   June 9th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

I'm a huge Obama supporter but if he chooses Hillary Clinton as his running mate, I'll vote for John McCain!!!

Sound ignorant to you? Good, because thats what all of you 'bitter' Clinton supporters sound like.

Nava-Canada   June 9th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

It will be a tricky decision for Senator Obama to make. The short list
to be presented by the advisory team may not Have Hillary Clinton's name on it as the party is 'bitter' about the way she conducted the campaign but If senator Omaba wants to win, he should have Hillary on his ticket as she polled 18 million votes against a formidable
candidate,Obama and she is the second most popular Democrat. but Senator Obama has to talk it out with Hillary about her sincrerity towards him, the would be president. He should make it clear to her that no infighting will be tolerated. Her supporters want her to be vice
President and they may not like her accepting any other position, to give their votes to Obama,hence Hillary Clinton should be offered the position of VP with conditions. The advisory team should realise that
if Hillary decides to lie low until 2012 elections, without participating in the campaign, physically, Senator Obama could lose and senator Clinton will have a second chance to be the President of United states of America.

Doris,Memphis,TN   June 9th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

Please, Please,Please, No Hillary Clinton!
Her style of politics does not match Obama's.
Please Al Gore come back and help Barack Obama!
We must win the White House back!

AL Gore is the only person that heal the party!
If only for one term!!!!!!!!

annie   June 9th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

How about giving the vp to dean, reid or any of the dnc members after all they selected the nominee. How about pelosi ,who has accompolished nothing, other than to urge Sen. Clinton to drop out over and over and over and over and over. There is only on logical choice and that would be Sen. Clinton since she got just a little bit more of the popular vote than the selected candidate did. But that won't happen 'cause obama is too chicken to have a REAL running mate. He might have to put some substance in his speeches.

Trudy   June 9th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

Great, Barack is still creating excitement. I can't wait to vote for him in November, no matter who is VP is.

Go Obama, yes we can.

Obama 08

Vernon   June 9th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

I'm quite sure there are so many qualified VP candidates to choose from.Sen Clinton included.Me personally I would take a long hardlook at Sen.Jim Webb of Virginia...He represents change and also brings strong military experience to the administration.Gov.Sebelius of Kansas is also a strong candidate.

Grace   June 9th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

Bill Richardson for VP

Perla   June 9th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

What an honor it will be for whoever gets to be #2 to President Obama.

Chicagoway   June 9th, 2008 7:38 pm ET

I believe bill richardson would be a great choice for obama with his great reputation regarding national security and foreign policy issues.

Tom   June 9th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is a fine senator and she was very close to claiming the Democratic nomination for president. However, she would be a poor choice as a running mate and at this point, it seems only the media are trying to keep that type of speculation alive.

Let it go.

She will not be in the VP slot on the Democratic ticket. The obvious reasons are too many to list.

Mike Cobb, Palo Alto, CA   June 9th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

This is a critical choice for Senator Obama, and I submit that he shoud seriously consider General Wesley Clark. Clark, a decorated retired general who was the Supreme Commander of NATO, who was there for the Bosnian war and its aftermath brings a great deal to the table, including an attractive personna, outstanding foreign policy knowledge, a successful military track record to take some of the attention away from from McCain's military past, and good administrative experience (see NATO, above) ... plus he is a good speaker and from the South. I sum, he is highly capable, he complements Obama, and he takes some advantage away from McCain. I have heard Clark speak on foreign policy in the Middle East, and he has considerable knowledge and makes a great deal of sense. The next best choice would probably be Senator Webb, for many of the same reasons (including putting VIrginia in play), but i think we need him in the Senate.

swalker3237   June 9th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

As long as its NOT Hillary I'm fine; and to all her supposed super feminist follwers that plan to vote for McCain in revolt, you are idiots. You will be voting directly FOR some the policies your movement strongly opposes. However, if you are so emotionally strung that you want to shoot yourselves in the foot; go right ahead. I am a liberal who doesn't believe in abortion... and can't wait until he overturns Roe v Wade and see your stupid faces afterwards!

A Clear Thinking Indepedent Voter - Ohio   June 9th, 2008 7:33 pm ET

Looking forward to hearing names for the administration that speak to change.

Certainly we know the most famous names but who are those 2nd & 3rd round draft picks not on the tip of America's tongue?

eam   June 9th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

already siding with the Kenndeys, doesn't sound like change to me. if he really is for change he should not include the royal families of america they are the ones that have put us where we are.

Donna   June 9th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

Hillary for VP. I cannot support a ticket without her. If anyone in this VP search is thinking they will see: 18 million votes, key democratic states, experience, great track record for NYS. It's a no brainer.

Jesse   June 9th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

.

Fact of the matter is Obama would soar like an eagle if he chose Governor Kathleen Sebelius.

Governor Kathleen Sebelius is a well liked person and a team player and would be able to fill the void of Clinton

Barack Obama / Kathleen Sebelius 08

Barack Obama / Kathleen Sebelius 08
.

Slected not Elected   June 9th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

Hillary is far too knowledgable and experienced to run with Obama. She is to good for him. Maybe he should get a running mate that is as dumb as he is and they would get a couple of votes. I will never vote for Obama.I don't want the future generations growing up without christianity.

Independent-woman-4-Obama   June 9th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

Good. I am glad that they are going through a thoughtful process, even though I believe that Sen. Clinton will either be Sen. Obama's VP or his Secretary of State.

Sen. Obama needs to choose wisely, this will be his first true, presidential decision.

God bless & guide him.

Darth Vadik, CA   June 9th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

Jim Webb for VP

California Voter   June 9th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

Obama cannot win without Hillary on the ticket. Hillary would bring in at least 18,000,000 voters to the table. Another person on the ticket would be backstabbing Hillary supporters.

JIM...TX   June 9th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

Let's hope this isn't as drawn out a process as the primaries and a decision is made one way or another very soon. The Party needs to get on with fighting against McSame not ourselves!

Casey   June 9th, 2008 7:20 pm ET

Well, if he's reading CNN, here's one supporter's suggested short list:

Rep. Chuck Hagel
Dem. Joe Biden
Dem. Bill Richardson
Dem. Claire McCaskill (except it would remove a democrat from Missouri, so don't)

Monica for Obama in Indiana   June 9th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

That's the way to go 'Obama' just take your time. It's your time to take
NO HILLARY And NO BAYH!

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