A certain cynicism attaches to presidential candidates’ selection of running mates. In theory, a running mate is someone who would do a good job leading the country if the president died or were removed from office.
But the theory doesn’t account for Joseph Robinette “Joe” Biden Jr., George Herbert Walker Bush nor, certainly, Lyndon Baines Johnson. Were they really the best that Barack Obama, Ronald Reagan and John F. Kennedy, respectively, could do for the country? And let us not long ponder the off-putting possibilities if Al Gore ever had become commander in chief. (Dolphin-friendly aircraft carriers, anyone?)
No, the people who would be vice president are selected not primarily for whether they would provide steady, competent leadership but for what strategic edge they might bring in the general election.
Which brings us to former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, who is expected to be the Republican nominee this year, and his potential running mates.
Some have hinted that they are interested. Others seem dead set against the idea. But until the decision is announced, we just don’t know who it will be.