The running mate can be a deciding factor in the presidential race. Depending on your choice your running mate can cover a new demographic (Lieberman), add needed experience (Cheney) or simply make you look taller, more handsome and more intelligent (Dan Quayle).

Obama will have many people to chose from. But he will have to set the precedent. Who does the first viable black contender choose as his running mate.

One might argue that his running mate should be black as well. White male candidates have generally had white male running mates with the notable exception (if it is one) of Lieberman who although white is also Jewish.

There are about 30 blacks in the house the most well known of which is Jesse Jackson. Obama is the only senator. There are two non-voting members. I know there are at least two black governors, and many more black Mayors (although Ray Nagin would probably not be the best choice).

Besides politicians there are of course also many blacks in business or showbiz who might make potential running mates. Most obvious among these is of course Oprah Winfrey already a huge Obama supporter. Adding Oprah would bring the female vote into play again. But is she the optimal choice.

Dr. Phil might be a great alternative to still keep the Oprah angle but have the traditional white guy face attached to the running mate. John Edwards is a similar candidate in the same category. He didn't look good with Kerry, but teamed with Obama they are like Danny Glover and Mel Gibson or Sonny and Tubbs. Politically they are aligned very well with Edwards pretty much writing the play book for this years primaries. And Edwards is from the south, never a bad thing.

Traveling west there is the Hispanic vote to consider. Bill Richardson seems to be the obvious candidate here. He is likable and he is competent. Does he look good with Obama? Not really. Richardson is too big and Obama too thin. But together they cover the two largest minorities in the US.

What about reaching across the aisle? Condoleezza Rice is both a woman and black. But can Obama really achieve his agenda with a Republican. Condoleezza rice has proven time and time again that she is very adaptable. Maybe that is a reason not to choose her.

Finally Clinton. Can Obama run with his main competitor as his running mate? Together they would appeal to blacks and whites, men and woman, but is there to much animosity between them now?

Personally I see Richardson or Edwards. They are the obvious choices. There doesn't seem to be a viable female candidate. America might be ready for a black president, but I don't think America is ready for a black Ticket. And anyway why limit your base when you can widen your appeal?

My vote goes to Obama/Edwards with Obama/Richardson a close second. Obama/Oprah is my third choice and if all else fails Obama/Dr. Phil.

Learn more about this author, Joost Steffensen.
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