Breaking away from the Scott Walker news for a moment…
In our latest Washington Post column, Paul Goldman and I suggest that another Virginian’s name should be added to the list of possible vice presidential candidates: Terry McAuliffe…
The governor is a practical businessman. He knows the pitfalls of doubling down when other, less risky, options are available.
As a loyal Clinton backer, he is using his considerable clout to help current DNC chair Debbie Wasserman-Schultz withstand increasing pressure, particularly from New Hampshire Democrats, to schedule more debates. He knew the Clinton campaign wanted his help, and he gave it willingly.
A presidential candidate chooses his or her running mate for a variety of reasons — among the more important is being a good soldier on the campaign trail and while in office. McAuliffe already earned his stripes with the Clintons. But over the weekend, he may have added a star or two to the collection.
Now, with Sanders gaining and Vice President Joe Biden lurking, Virginia could be the decisive battleground in the nomination fight. This makes McAuliffe much more than just a friend of Clinton: He could turn out to be her political savior. If so, his reward could be the second slot on the national ticket.
Yes, yes, the Governor has said he fully intends to serve out his term. But there are other duties, other ties, and much bigger stages, to which one can aspire.
If Hillary made Terry an offer he couldn’t refuse, would he?
Judging by his past with the Clinton’s, no.
