Interesting post by Dick Morris on how the calculus of selecting a VP candidate changed starting with Clinton / Gore.  A running mate used to be selected to provide balance and deliver a region or state outside the candidate’s grip (see Kennedy / Johnson, Reagan / Bush).  Now a candidate should select someone “to make a statement about their own candidacy.”

But in analyzing Obama’s situation Morris suffers from tunnel-vision, focusing on the subject of his writing and not the whole picture.  Morris concentrated on the IL Senator’s lack of experience, specifically on national security and the national political scene which certainly must be addressed.  He suggests fellow Senators Biden and Dodd as good choices.

Unfortunately things are not that simple for Obama and the selection of a running mate poses something of a dilemma.  For one thing, the theme of his entire campaign is “Change.”  Republicans have already commenced their attempts to strip away that cover and paint him as a classic “tax and spend liberal.”  What could bolster that charge more than the first major Obama appointment being a fellow, intensely partisan legislator such as the two mentioned.

Complicating matters further, Obama also lacks executive experience.  And, while I’m not suggesting Hillary would be a good choice, he does need a running mate who will soothe Sen Clinton’s wounded loyalists.

Kind of hard to come up with someone who can address all of these weaknesses.  On the other hand, how seriously do they need to be addressed?  After all, Obama defeated someone who would appear to be stronger on all fronts to secure the nomination in the first place.  Perhaps Obama’s best bet is to keep the smoke screen going and avoid even letting the discussion turn to substantial matters such as experience.  Maybe a second “rock star” is all the ticket needs.