Cafferty File

Should Obama consider Clinton for V.P.?

Click the play button to see what Jack and our viewers had to say.

FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:

When it comes to Hillary Clinton – not so fast.

Some Democrats are worried that Barack Obama isn't farther ahead in the polls at this point, especially when you consider the unpopularity of President Bush, the often unfocused campaign being run by John McCain and Obama's successful trip overseas. Suddenly some are wondering whether Obama should reconsider putting Clinton on the ticket.

Watch: Cafferty: Hillary for VP?

CNN Senior Political Analyst David Gergen points out that the major tests for a V.P. pick are whether the person is qualified to be president, and if that person will give you a better chance of winning. Clinton predicted during the primaries that the Republican attack machine would be in full bloom against Obama. One columnist wrote – reacting to some of McCain's recent ads – "The swift boats have sailed," a reference to the Republican smear campaign that destroyed John Kerry's chances. Gergen suggests there's no one better than Hillary and Bill Clinton to fight off such attacks.

Clinton supporter Lanny Davis points to a recent poll that shows Obama holding a 1-point lead over McCain, but when voters were asked to choose between Obama-Clinton versus McCain and Mitt Romney the Democrats' lead then jumps to 9 points. This strongly suggests that even though Clinton might drive away some voters, she has the potential to bring in even more. Davis suggests Obama could not lose with Clinton on the ticket, as she would shore up key voting blocks.

Meanwhile, there are indications from some former Clinton supporters – particularly those in the women's movement – that if Obama picks anyone but Clinton, the divisions from the primary season just might not heal. They are adamant that Obama can't assume Clinton's supporters will back him regardless of whom he picks as V.P.

Here’s my question to you: Should Barack Obama be seriously considering Hillary Clinton for V.P.?

Interested to know which ones made it on air?

Joe from St. Louis writes:
Jack, On this matter, there is no leeway. The Clintons are old-school dirty politicians. He promises change and hope. I hope he does not change my opinion of him.

Gerri from Mead, Oklahoma writes:
In order to have a really interesting four-year period, filled with suspense and intrigue, I think Obama should choose the Clintons for his V.P. It will be like watching the entertainment channel. And let's face it Jack, with the downturn in the economy, which is bound to get worse before it gets better, the American people could use a few laughs while they watch nightly news.

Karen from Nashville, Tennessee writes:
He has already considered a large number of qualified people, and she didn't make the cut. They are, simply put, incompatible. Hillary Clinton is incapable of working with anyone who is not part of her carefully chosen inner circle of sycophants. And Barack Obama is not a desperate man.

DJ from Detroit writes:
Barack and Billary: the 3-headed Republican machine-destroying monster. I think I like!

Bob from Kentucky writes:
Obama needs Hillary to get elected. She would guarantee him the majority of the female vote and would help him carry Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Florida and California. None of the other names being thrown around bring half as much to the table as she does.

Carrie from Charlotte, North Carolina writes:
Absolutely not. I don't dislike Hillary Clinton but I resent the strong-arm tactics being used by her supporters to force him to select someone as his V.P. who I don't believe will be 100% in his corner. Besides, capitulating to your former competitor's supporters is not the way to begin the presidency.

Patrick writes:
Of course he should not only consider her, he should pick her as his running mate. If I was in a fight, I would want her on my side.

Sven writes:
As a Republican, I can only hope he does.