FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
With Iowa and New Hampshire in his rear view mirror and South Carolina and Florida looking like two more potential victories, Mitt Romney is looking like he's going to be tough to beat.
If Romney goes on to win the Republican nomination, the next question becomes: Who is the best pick for vice president to round out the ticket?
For starters, nominees usually take a look at their former competitors, although it's hard to imagine Romney picking Newt Gingrich to be his No. 2.
A recent column on TheStreet.com suggests the Republican winner should look for a VP with a strong business background, experience, and someone who can avoid the so-called Palin syndrome. Translation: They should be able to name some newspapers they read and a couple of Supreme Court cases.
This could include politicians like former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.
Christie has been campaigning for Romney to sell-out crowds in New Hampshire. Sort of a political odd couple.
Christie brings healthy doses of his signature straight talk. When protesters at a New Hampshire rally recently yelled: "Mitt kills jobs. Christie kills jobs," Christie shot back with this:
"Really? You know something may go down tonight, but it ain't gonna be jobs sweetheart."
Christie would certainly spice up the ticket and might be more willing to go on the attack so Romney wouldn't have to.
As a side note, here is my political fantasy: President Obama convinces Hillary Clinton to replace Joe Biden on the Democratic side.
Then a series of debates is scheduled between Clinton and Christie: It would be much more entertaining than debates between Romney and Obama. It would be huge. Hey, we can dream, right?
Here’s my question to you: If Mitt Romney goes on to win the nomination, who should be his VP?
Tune in to the Situation Room at 4pm to see if Jack reads your answer on air.
And, we love to know where you’re writing from, so please include your city and state with your comment.
Mitt is going to pick Lindsey Graham, because the Republican Establishment bosses want to get Lindsey ready for 2016. Lindsey Graham is the real Secratariat of the Republican field, but they didn't want to waste him, when the country is going through some very hard times. Doug, Pepperell, MA.
Any of the canidates in the "clown car" will work.....who cares I'm voting for MY President Obama
Jack,my personal observation is:It does not matter because he can't beat Obama.
David
As a Democrat who fears the election of any Republican from today's radically-right party, I would say Rick Santorum. That would guarantee an Obama win.
Mr. Cafferty, as of today, polls show Romney & Obama are statistically tied in the state of Florida. I can think of no better choice for VP candidate than Florida Senator, Marco Rubio.
Gordon Gekko
I have all the wrong reasons for my suggestion that it should be Rick Perry. However, it does make political sense. Romney is from the Northeast and Perry is from the South as it were from Texas (sometimes Texans don't consider themselves as part of the old South). Romney is wishy washy on right to life while Perry has easily got that covered with his strong ties with the Christian right. As for me and a small minority in Texas is that we finally get him out of Texas.
Who would give balance,
and add the most votes.
Ron Paul.
It might be Christy.....the Laurel and Hardy ticket.
John Huntsman. A decent and inteligent man of great integrity. Not radical or on the fringe group. Has good managerial experience being a former governor of Utah and has foreign service knowledge and experience as well, being a former US Ambassador to China.
Mitt Romney can be the VP also. He can flip flop between the two positions.
Not a wing nut like Palin or Bachmann if he wants to have credibility with the electorate.
If, (God forbid) Romney should be the Nominee, I think he will pick a younger running mate, Maybe Pawlenty, Marco Rubio, or an East-coast Republican without a big national name, but it will be a Tea-Party Obstructionist !
How about someone who doesn't look, act and talk like a robot? It would liven up his campaign.
I'm not gonna vote for 'em but Kay Baily Hutchinson would be brilliant; soon to be former Senator from Texas, a nod to Perry, understands Congress, a JFK-LBJ for republicans and much more qualified than Palin was!
Vernon Hills, IL
He should pick Sarah Palin;they both got that far away look in their eyes.
Whoever it is, you know they will be a right wing extremist with all their social views on how we should live. But it really doesn't matter to me because I cannot vote for a millionaire businessman as my president. He has no idea how I live and struggle each day, his only concern is corporations who he considers to be people and the 1% from having their taxes raised.
Marco Rubio. He is young, conservative, Latino, and popular in Florida. He has all the tickets to be a good VP candidate and while is is a freshman, he got elected in Florida by a wide margin. His down-side is his tea-party views but Romney will straighten-out his meassaging there.
Sarah Palin, of course!
It doesn't matter who he picks for his VP as long as they can regularly contribute material to the comedy writers of The Daily Show, Saturday Night Live, and the late night talk shows.
The GOP primary "election process" has turned into a mud wrestling contest at a traveling carnival so at least we can enjoy a few laughs while president Obama works toward his almost certain reelection in November.
. . . his wife. Then she can get a break because she'll be too busy.
Jon Huntsman. He'd be the alpha adult in the administration. His Far East expertise, especially on China, would give him a role that would be far more than ceremonial. As Vice President he could do more for the Republican Party and the country than anyone else I can think of.
Mr.Cafferty,
The VP should be Rick Perry. That way we get the both of worst worlds which is what Americans seem to want.
C. Magallanes
Pasadena,Calif.
Being from NJ, I am certain it is going to be Chris Christy, who has been all over the country campaigning for him. In the meantime here in NJ, after Christy's refusal to raise the taxes on millionaires and billionaires, the tolls for the bridges/tunnels to NYC and our two toll highways have doubled. These increases are a severe hardship for all of our middle class citizens trying to get to work.
Romney should seek out some unknown governor from an unpopulous state with questionable morals, holy-roller background, intolerable ignorance, and a sort of feminine app . . . ....... wait, that didn't work....
Romney should select that fat guy from New Jersey. Everybody loves fat guys from New Jersey. Well, fat guys anyway.
Condolezza Rice is my recommendation Jack. She's smart, experienced in foreign affairs having been Secretary of State, and certaInly capable. A black woman with her background as number two on the GOP ticket would give Obama and the Democrats a legitimate run for their money. I can see it now – "ROMNEY and RICE to restore America".
Gary in Scottsdale, Arizona
Romney will never win the nominee & if he does he will never win the general election because GOD will never allow a mormon to lead the world ,its a big SIN
Governor McDonnell of Virginia would be the smart choice as he is from the south and no one questions his authenticity as a true conservative and his his fiscal acumen in terms of serving as an executive over a complex state government speaks for itself.
You Jack. At last we would a glass if water is half full sort of guy in Washington
Jon Huntsman.
The ideal running mate would be Jon Huntsman. He offers regional balance in voting attraction, super clean image, well qualified as a President if fate calls him to be, and has the perfect personality and demeanor for the VP position.
Romney – Huntsman in 2012.
Since the man comes off as if the presidency is his birthright, I'd say go for the next biggest ego – Newt. He could go with honorable Huntsman, though I don't see him doing honorable. Of course there's the evanglicals, making Santorum shine. If he wants the latinos, that liar Rubio would suit. Palin, once you get past her toxic hate of at least half of us, would at least provide comic relief. Decisions, decisions.
If Romney were to win the nomination, he should have Chuck Norris be his running mate.
If he wants to win he should get Hillary Clinton and if he wants to lose, Christine O'Donnel.
For Romney's running mate, he should choose either Santorum, Bachmann, Perry, Palin, Cain, Paul, or Gingrich. That would ensure another four year term for President Obama. That would be best for America.
Fran
Escondido
Has to be someone bland and boring like Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell.....a Ken-doll, Romney clone who won't threaten Romney and is willing to wait 8 years for "his turn" to be President.
The Donald. Then we can have a ticket with great hair!
Joe Smith should be his running mate.
Corporate Raider Barbie, of course. Why break up a set?
Anyone who doesn't have that plastic smile ready to go.
If.....Willard gets the nod(he should, his PAC[Koch industries] is pouring in millions into his campaign). I think his running mate will be, whom the Koch brothers pick. After all, it was them, and their bought John Robert's court that got them this victory. So, they'll have a big say......Isn't democracy, grand.
If by some remote chance Romney did become president I would hope he had chosen a running mate who is true presidential material. Let's see, from the Republican side that would be . . . uh . . . um . . . ah . . . Oops!
Who cares? He will win the nomination, and there is no rational or logical reason why anyone running against Obama would lose. But we are no longer a rational or logical nation. Still, none of it matters. We all blew it big time when we allowed Bush to lead us into disaster. Obama has proven that it doesn’t matter who lives in the White House, because the country is run by Wall Street, big business, the oil companies and big pharma, not to mention a handful of other slime like the Koch brothers. The president has no more power than the king or queen of England. So pick your poison, we are toast either way, anyway.
Jon Huntsman is the only real candidate in the pack that might have a chance of actually beating Obama bur since the early states think Mitt can beat him, then Huntsman should be there a second fiddle. The rest of the pack are not qualified for either job. They are either too religious, too immoral, too conservative, too stupid or a combination of the above.
Hunstman? While this would not particularly please true conservatives, if the goal is beating Obama, then offering a more seasoned foreign policy person would give the ticket balance, just so long as Romney doesn't telegraph the move beforehand and encourage Obama to replace Biden with Clinton.
Let it be another "moderate" like Huntsman. That way, when Romney loses. the Republican "moderates" won't have anyone to blame but themselves when real conservatives stay home or vote third party......
any but sarah.
If Romney wins the GOP nomination then once again the GOP faces the same situation as it did 4 years ago when it gave John McCain the nod. "How to breathe life into a ticket headed by a not so inspiring guy." Here the GOP needs to think possibly female, minority, definately conservative. That's what they did when they selected Sarah Palin...
Okay so add "sharp" and "knowledge of current affairs" to the above list. Putting all this together and to answer your question, how about former Secretary of State Condi Rice or current Florida Lieutenant Gov. Jennifer Carroll?
Just sayin'...
hi jack
I think Romney should pick Patrick the starfish from Spongebob Squarepants, that way Mitt wont look so stupid
While i must agree with you Jack that Christi and Clinton would be great comic relief for the rest of this political cycle that is just not likely to happen. I do think Romney needs to think about a female VP. He would win a good deal of support from female voters as long as the candidate VP is not prettier then any of those voting. Romney needs an old gnarly junkyard dog like Hilary to add to his ticket. Someone who has a good bite and no one wants to mess with because of what might happen if they did. I am thinking someone like Jocelyn Wildenstein or Sandra Bernhard. Either could add the comic relief and both have faces you are not likely to ever forget.
Rubio would be an excellent choice, and get plenty of seasoning for 2020 if Romney would really let him work the job. Unfortunately Rubio has said repeatedly that for now, his sights are not on the white house in any office. Huntsman would be the next best choice. He has plenty of Foreign policy background and through many of the debates, seemed like the only adult in the room.
Well Mitt Romneys VP shoud be Ron Paul that way he can scare hell out of everybody then.
If Romney becomes the nominee, his VP is going to have to be someone who can get Republican votes, if Romney is going to have any chance at beating Obama. I believe that Romney's VP should be former Arkansas Governor, Mike Huckabee. I have no doubt that Huckabee can get the Republican votes and the Evangelical votes that Romney cannot get. And I also believe that if Romney chooses Huckabee as his VP, he will have a better chance of beating Obama then he does right now.
It may be just as much of a fantasy, but I would think Ron Paul. The Republican party is taking a serious risk if they alienate their libertarian leaning members. Many of these libertarians are already massively disillusioned with the religious right and single issue voter Republicans... and some are willing to vote for the other side if the only choice comes down to Romney or Newt. Its the best of the worst. There seems to be very little hatred between Romney and Paul and it may drag a good portions of libertarians on board, even though the VP is much less powerful.
Gov. Romney should select Sen. John Thune (R-SD) as his Vice Presidential Nominee. As a former House member, Thune has many allies in both chambers of Congress, including the Senate Minority Mitch McConnell. If the Republicans truly think that they will win control of the Senate, having a McConnell ally will be important for a Massachusetts Governor with no D.C connection. If he does not select a Member of Congress, Romney risks putting himself into the same box that Jimmy Carter in 1978... and that's one lonely place to be.
I think he's likely to go with someone from the South who can help him with the large and growing Hispanic constituency.
Mario, are you standing by the telephone? (Although as a Democrat, I'd love to see him commit political hara kiri by going with the likes of Bachmann!)
Hilary Clinton. It doesn't look like she's going to make it onto Barak Obama's ticket.
Jack, this is serious business not an entertainment reality show. Our country is is in shambles and here we are discussing who would be the most interesting VP.They are all motivated and driven by money which only leaves us with the lesser of two evils.What an election.
Senator Olympia Snowe should be Romney's choice for VP. Romney's greatest weakness is that he is already seen as a cold hearted vulture and his Republican competition is are just getting started on him. Newt is spending over $4 million in South Carolina.
Senator Snowe denounced Bush's irresponsible spending at the time, not after it was too late like the rest of these phonies. She is business savvy in every other way. To know her is to love her and how many Republicans can anyone say that about? If anyone can humanize the ticket, it will be Snowe.
Dear Mr. Cafferty:
I just read your political fantasy and I fear it is a product of day dreaming or disturbed sleep. Check your home for carbon monoxide.
Ru Paul...I Mean Ron Paul. Or maybe George Bush, that way if the economy doesn't get any better he can blame it on poor George and not the black guy for his failure.
No doubt that Chris Christie is the one person I would like to have one heartbeat away from the Oval office. Popular, pragmatic, savvy, collaborative. And, oh yes, sooooo pit-bull-esque
I think his Vice Presidential running mate should be Jon Huntsman.. but who the hell cares whatever the ticket is they're still going to lose.
The best choice would be either Bachman, Santorum or Gov Christy. The most provocative choice would be Ron Paul
I'm sure it's Ron Paul. He hasn't attack Romney as he does with other front runners. He focuses his attention on those that seemed a threat to Romney. I think he's a pawn for Romney right now and will be rewarded.
Romney should chose who ever is left standing in the 2nd place after the debates. We had a Gong show with Sarah Palin in 2008 (not a good idea to choose a black horse), we had a blast with Edwards in 2004 (Kerry must not be liked very much, could only find someone who smiles alot). Either way, Romney is wasting time. Obama is gonna trash him, Yes I am a Republican, but bright enuf to see the truth is outside the window. Unfortunately we have a DUD for a nominee..... Romney Care, Wall Street Care, and a whole load of skeletons this man has, will not play out well for him. Yes we Old News is Past, but it usually a good Metric of future behavior. Go Mitt, Ur wasting the fundraisers time, might as well through the ballot box in the Sea.
It should be one of the great Republican women. Maybe the Governor of South Carolina for one.
Christie for entertainment value, Rubio's the strategic pick, but if it's Pawlenty it'll go from Zzzomney to comatose.
Carol in Northampton, Massachusetts
Mitt Romney knows that the GOP nominee will need the Tea Party's support to win the presidency. And since Mitt has been pandering to various audiences for over six years now, he might as well put Rick Santorum or Michele Bachmann on the ticket. Besides, Dan Quayle proved it doesn't matter who is vice president.
My guess is that it would probably be Grover Norquist. But then, he is too much of a coward to actually expose himself to public scutiny. Poor ol' Willard will get stuck with whoever the RNC boneheads come up with, and it won't matter one bit because Obama will just let them shoot themselves in the foot so many times that they won't have a leg left to stand on.
Gov. Christie if he wants to win.
I'm a Ron Paul fan but who ever is chosen I think Mr. Huntsman is the most qualified and he fits well with Mr. Romney. He seems more realistic and he's not the Bible thumping, truth stretching, loud mouths the others are (with the definite exception of Dr. Paul).
Not Rubio. Marco gets KEYNOTE in Tampa. You need to groom him for 2016. The Class pf 2010 should speak: Martínez, Sandoval and (Rand) Paul. And also, John Thune. That's the ticket for 2016: Thune / Rubio.
Several hours ago (on another CNN blog) that IF Romney wins he should hold VP open for Crazy Uncle Joe since there aren't any republicans capable of straight talk. Your fantasy supports my fantasy.
...sorry....left out "I suggested" before "that". Can a Moderator PLEEEEZE fix that ? I might get read if you do....
Being that Romney is dull as dirt and both he and Christie are from Northeast liberal states, which isn't going to play in the South, I think the Republicans will need to balance the ticket with someone other than Christie. The only way to gin-up the Republican base would be to pick Palin. Talk about awesome debates, following your fantasy of Clinton joining the Democratic ticket, Palin vs. Clinton, it would be a blood bath and Obama would win. Hey a guy can dream can't he?
If we live in a global world, John Huntsman would be an excellent choice for VP.
"Whoever finished third! Why you ask? Well you will need a good back-up still left in wanting!"
It doesn't really matter to me, as it'll be Obama as president for another 4 years....something I'm looking forward to, as it'll take the same number of years to get this country out of the mire that the previous administration put us in...but if I were a GOP supporter, I would hope that Romney would pick Huntsman as his VP.
jack,Gingrich is the man. Just thing Rameny Newtles in 2012!
No brainer – Jon Huntsman, the only intelligent republican in the field.
Speaking of political fantasy, how about the country being able to elect someone that will really turn this country around. We shouldn't be "going down." We should be going up.
I thought that was sealed when Christie was the first to endorse Romney. Isn't that the way reciprocal politics work? Then both candidates could have equal opportunities to spread the crap and stick their feet in their mouths. Eve of Texas
Good question. I would like some of the other Presidential Canidiates in the Adminstration but where? Newt would be good somewhere but maybe not as the VP. So I will go out on a limb and say Tim Palenty (Maybe Mispelled). That is assuming Romeny is the Canidate .
No way with Romney.Ron Paul with Bachman or Palin as a running mate and the republicans win hands down.Romney is to smooth talking.We need somebody strong and a lady beside them and they win in a landslide.The mess needs to be cleaned up in D.C. the states and counties also.It is cleanup time now if our country is to survive and be Number 1 again.Vote all incumbants and crooks out now.Jim Thomas Phx.Az..
I think Mitt should seriously consider Ron Paul as his running mate. The two have been mostly courteous to each other so far, and bringing Paul along for the ride would help swing a lot of the anti-war and anti-establishment crowd from the Democratic orbit. It would also give him a formidable ally in the inevitable debates and someone who could embarrass Biden rather easily.
Edmonton, Alberta
Rand Paul, to keep Ron and his minions in the GOP and fire up the vote in the Tea Party. It will give the Paul family some first hand experience of the value of government in a modern state.
Carl Icahn......then they can pass a constitutional amendment banning capitol gains taxes forever.
If Mitt Romney goes on to win the nomination, who should be his VP?
Sarah Palin. Tina Fey will bring much needed comedy to America
Jenna
Roseville CA
I think if he wins he should pick Obama or either Clinton.
If Mitt Romney goes on to win the nomination, who should be his VP?
Jack – First of all, You better forget about Your "Political Fantasy" – won't happen That way.
That means a debate between Clinton & Christie Won't Happen, either. And Yes, you're allowed to Dream. Romney could go for Christie – to do his dirty work, as in being mouthy, that is what he typically does. He can work his mouth in 2 ways, one is to take IN Food, and the other is to talk down to people.
He should get Rubio for his VP – he can secure Florida with a huge win.
But I hope they don't read this, because I'm Voting a Straight Ticket, since I'm a Democrat that is currently living in a Republican State. I'm seriously thinking about changing my "voters registration" next yr, to "Independent" sometime after the election, since it may be too late to do so now.
You want to know MY Political Fantasy ?? Hillary Running, but not on an Obama Team. There's way too many people that does not like Obama, and are ready to Vote for anybody, but Obama. So – the Obama/Hillary scenario wouldn't be the ticket.
All the other's are GOP right wing extremes, that's on that stage. Romney is the Only person who will at Least come towards the middle. And Ron Paul won't last after Florida, because those people in Florida (the Jewish Vote) wants someone who will send Billions to their Homeland.
Larry in Houston
I say since he has no chance anyway against his own companies' pick in Obama, he should go all out and pick Ann coulter. If your gonna run for president on the platform of buzzard capitalism, no taxes for those who don't contribute now, and attacking the poor and middle class backbone of America, you may as well step all the way into crazy-land.
He needs someone that does not have a history of handing out pink slips, and delighting in firing people. I am dying for his record to come to light.
Sandy from Massachusetts
Obama 2012!!!
I suggest Romney picks an equal with Thibault-like miracles in his pocket. Rick Perry is out on that call. He prayed for rain at a prayer rally in Houston and we had the worst drought in Texas history.
Absolutely not Jack. Its still a two man race between Paul and Romney. Small government conservatives vs big government conservatives. Peace vs war. True constitutional dedication vs lips service. Let's not ca it quits yet jack!
My GOP guru says Mitch Daniels, however, my personal preference would be Jon Huntsman. Sadly, no way will the GOP allow such a sensible man on the ticket. Plus, Mr. Huntsman is Mormon and two Mormons on the ticket may be too much from some folks. However, the most likely choice is Haley Barbour. He's now unemployed. Of course, his recent pardons make me wonder if he's lost his mind. Then there's always the devil we know named "Newt Gingrich." He's a great debater and his choice would make my Aunt happy. But does it really matter? The GOP ate their own during the primaries and have actually destroyed their chances of beating Mr. Obama. So, what's your next question?
micky mouse sholuld be romney's VP. here is why; He is all american, I believe he's Christian, he is already well known, I don't think he will argue with romney and he has ears big enough to compete with Obama's. Also when I picture micky mouse in the debates he fits in vary well!!
DICK CHENEY. If Romney wins, we might as well do it right !
Are you serious Jack? Romney and Billy The Kid.
He should pick Rick Santorum. He, unlike Romney, can relate to the "working man." you should give up on your Christie/Clinton dream. FuggetAbaoutIt!
How about Daffy Duck! The perfect choice to round out that ticket!
How about Ron Paul? He is in second after all. And if the Republicans want to win, they need to take the youth vote away from Obama and Ron Paul is the only Republican candidate who can do that.
One person...Condi Rice..game changer, the first black conservative woman on the presidential ticket lends instant excitement and historical significance. Plus, a Clinton vs. Rice debate would be highly entertaining..
You Jack, that would bring some common sense into the transition.
Mitt Romney needs to pick a populist, which he has shown time and time again that he is not. Tim Pawlenty has the solid conservative credentials and middle-American vibe that could push Romney forward.
It really wouldn't matter, a Romney presidency would be the last nail in the coffin of the middle class.
Jack, I think you should be his VP nominee. Wolf Blitzer should replace Biden. I would love to see you and Wolf Blitzer debate. Imagine how CNN's ratings would go up! Romney/Cafferty and Obam/Blitzer 2012!
Romney-Christie 2012! Christie can do the dirty work and mud slinging so Mitt can come out clean and shining St. Mitt.
Ron Paul. This is the only way to attract independents, democrats, and the youth of the Republican Party. Also it will prevent Paul from forming a third party and destroying the Republican chances at winning the election.
one word: RICE
Well, it should not be Christie – the visual of Romney and Christie on stage together was really bad when they campaigned together. Christie looks hugely obese next to a puny looking Romney. Bad photo ops in that pair.
Sarah Palin... so we can all enjoy the comedy of Tina Faye portraying her antics.
Not the rude and crude Christie...he is a bully. I think Huntsman should be his running mate...Imagine how the tea party would feel about two Mormons running the country....should be interesting????
Is there a person in America named Condoleezza Christie Rubio?
Gov Susanna Martinez NM
Gov Bob McDonnell VA
Gov Brian Sandoval NV
A Romney presidency would be the end of America, so the choice is irrelevant. If the GOP's main goal was simply to end the Obama Administration, then their automatic choice would be Ron Paul, he's the only one that could take democratic votes away from Obama.
I'd hope that Romney would pick someone that would guarantee a loss to Obama, a la Palin in 2008. Maybe Ron Paul or Santorum. Someone who is so far to the right that the moderate Republicans just can't vote for the ticket come the general election.
Marco Rubio. Romney will need a little help beyond being "not Obama" and he will need to grab some part of Obama's last voting block. Rubio might help with the hispanic vote. That and with apathy (i.e. not as many youth voters, etc.) Romney could pull out another 8 vote win.
Instead of the guy who straight talks...Christie reminds me of the big bully who steals your lunch money.
Jack perhaps the VP canidate the Dems would fear most is Condi Rice. She is an intellegent, articulate and has the oversea's expertise to go toe to toe with Hillary Clinton if Obama got desperate and put Mrs. Clinton on the ticket. Romney-Rice 2012!
If Republicans were silly enough to select Mitt "I like firing people" Romney, Romney should pick a running mate by the name Donald "You're Fired" Trump! They truly deserve each other.
Jack it does not matter who Romney would pick because he is going to lose to Obama anyway
It should be you, Jack. You're the straightest talker I've ever heard and you don't owe anybody anything. I personally can't stand Romney, but if you were on the ticket with Obama....Hey I can dream can't I?
Gov christy said he is not qualified to be president. so that authomatically disqualifies him from been on the ticket. how about Dan quale for a try. oops
Sarah Palin because she is the First Lady of the Tea Party..... and she reads constantly Jack. She also has two NY TImes best selling books. Do you? Romney needs a person who isn't robotic on his ticket if he wins. But I'm thinking Newt still lhas a good chance.
New York
Romney should pick Condoleeza Rice as his VP pick - it would cover three "bases:"
1.) She has tons of foreign policy experience
2.) Female
3.) African American
A no-brainer!
Sam Smith
Alpena, MI
Billy Mays, if he were still alive.
If Mitt wins, he should choose Ron Paul for his VP running mate. He wouldn't even need secret service protection, because the corrupt powers be are TERRIFIED of Ron Paul becoming president.
If Mitt wins, the ticket will badly need some charisma and pizazz. I recommend Dick Cheney.
He will pick Susana Martinez or Brian Sandoval to mitigate his immigration position and play for the growing Hispanic vote. This will help him hold Arizona, win back Colorado and Nevada, and put New Mexico in play. Rubio will not help beyond Florida, as Cubans have little appeal in the broader Hispanic community.
1st choice Condi Rice or 2nd choice Meg Whitman would create a great ticket with Romni.
Secretary Colin Powell would be a great Republican VP if he could get over his terrible treatment by the Bush Administration. He is well-respected by many minorities; he is trusted by many. Having him on the ticket would appeal to African-Americans and would stymy the Democrats as far as the attacks that would likely develop.
Senator Richard Burr of NC He has ties to two important swing states (having been born in VA.) He has Washington DC experience, National Security experience, solid Conservative credibility (three things that Romney lacks). Burr is a great debater, excellent fund raiser, and has been scandal-free his entire career..
Jack.
The entire republican field apperas to be a bunch of dummies who has no idea whether they are coming or going. Hey how about that Sarah Palin whom i think push thack the women movement at least 20 years.
How about picking Scott Walker I hear he will be needing a job shortly anyway.
It should be lindsey graham of south carolina. He has legislative experience and it will show respect to mccain and the governor of south carolina if she delivers the state for him. Has military backgroung. It won't be another northeasterner
Chris Christy
Mitt Romney may as well choose Barack Obama to be his Vice President. The two of them agree on almost every major issue, from big government spending to invading foreign countries without the approval of Congress. Jack, you know just as well as I do that there is only one alternative to the status quo, and it isn't Mitt Romney.
Hey Jack,
As a latino I would love to see a Latino VP. I would suggest Romney pick New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez. With her on the ticket, Romney would be running with the prospect of making double history, the first latino vp and the first woman vp. This will help him in his outreach to women and latinos. One can only dream right?
Jose Rios
Atlanta, Ga
Let it be RIck Perry. If it's RIck, Romney can let him take the attack dog side and Texas could get a new govenor in the process. Surely Rick would resign to run. Hoping for a Romney Perry ticket would make a lot of Texans happy.
How about Snookie?
Governor Christie is a bully and unqualified to be anything because he's immature. He's in the running for worldwide pants.
Condoleeza Rice
Michelle Backman
If Romney gets the nomination he should pick somebody that can spice the race up. I think the person should skills such as in good with people, name recognition, and wanting to change things around in America. Therefore Charlie Sheen is the best pick for Romney. Face it Jack, the Republicans have no chance what so ever.
I remember thinking right after the Iowa straw poll that Pawlenty would be a good VP candidate, although now I can't remember why. Like most American voters, I guess I have the attention span of a house fly.
Perhaps Bernie Madoff would like the job?
You want to dream, dream this one. What about the current governor of PR, Luis Fortuño?
It should be somebody from the middle class but that sure as hell wont happen!! I can promise you it will be some one from the 1% so " we the people" can continue the downward slope that our government has put on us!!
Ron Paul needs to be in the White House one way or another
Jack,
Romney will make the same mistake his pal McCain made in 2008. He will pick a tea-party female, e.g. Nikki Haley of SC in order to attract female voters and the conservative base of the GOP. He will not pick a loud-mouth Northeast Republican. He will win the GOP nomination, and then loose to Obama. I can't wait for the general election to start. Get your popcorn.
King
Christie is the choice that would stir up the most excitement. However, Jon Huntsman seems to be the best fit. He is level headed, comes across as very principled, and is willing to serve his country when others thought it unpopular because the "other guys" were in office. Wouldn't that be a pleasant change of pace, to chose a guy willing to do the right thing even if his peers want to focus on bickering and counterproductive behavior. I would love Christie, but he has made a big deal about not being ready to run; tough to recover from that...
Jon huntsman, he needs someone to win the independent voters and has real foreign policy experience.
Forgetaboutit! It has to be Chris Christie. After all if Chris wants it, what other choice does Mitt have?
George M
Clearwater Beach, FL
Jack, U said having Christie on the ticket would be huge. Well, he already is. The R's have the reputation of being fat cats and his is more of the same. The big print he got last year was using a state helicopter to attend his kids ball games. If the GOP keeps producing that image, it's going to be imprinted in everyone's mind.
As a young republican from VA, I would love to see a Romney/McDonnell ticket. Our Governor has a pro-business background, led VA to a giant surplus and current Chairman of the RGA. My vote is for Romney in VA primary AND in the general election!
Huntsman, but Americans aren't ready to elect two Mormons.
Ron Paul. It would secure a huge voting block that he will not get any other way. Rand Paul would be a decent option that would get the majority of them as well.
Jack the perfect match for Romney's VP mate should be McCain. Hearing John throw his support for President Obama every day after a few cocktails would keep the republican clowns entertained while Obama handles winning another term and running this country in a serious manner. We will se a new Obama once we give him the charter with the house and senate to boot. Its time for the 99% Jack. Cheers to a Obama/McCain ticket.
Here are three possibilities: Mr. Magoo; being vision impaired he could guide the Romney administration with his short sighted vision for America. Next, I believe Tweetie Bird would fit the bill if Tweetie could learn to change her mantra from, :I thought I saw a pussy cat," to, "I thought I saw a Democrat." Finally, Mitt could ask Governor Huntsman, a.k.a. the only adult in the room during the New Hampshire debates. But this would result in the Democrats battle cry, "The Mormons are coming!" Tough question Jack.
Sarah Palin of course. (Tee hee)
I think he should pick Huntsman. John Huntsman has the executive experience, experience creating jobs in his state and more importantly he has foreign policy experience especially with China which is important because China has been estimated to take over as the #1 economy in the near future.
There is not much question that Christie will be the choice and he is a good contrast to Romney. One downside is that he is from NJ, which Romney has no shot to win. Rubio's best selling point is his state (FL), but he has some serious baggage over his lies about his heritage during his last election. One that Jack didn't mention that is a real posibility is Mitch Daniels of Indiana who seems to be positioning himself for something and he is from somewhat weak leaning red state; (IN).
Senator Rubio sealed the deal at his election that he would be the Republicans' first choice for VP, but he has hinted that he may not accept it. If that's the case, Chris Christie would be the most effective attack dog, and would be an effective "heir apparent" to Romney whether he wins the election or not. Rudy Giuliani brings something that Romney is lacking, which is national security expieriance, to the ticket.
Why is there some presumption that Romney is going to win. Last time I checked this was a two man race. Anyone who seriously thinks Dr. Paul is not a serious contender is not paying attention. He's a true Conservative and patriot. Why would we want to elect someone who is going to continue the same policies. Obama was elected because American's wanted change. He has failed to deliver. Romney offers the American people no change. Ron Paul has a vison for real change and that is a quality sorely lacking in Mitt Romney.
Rick Santorum is clearly the right choice. He's young, smart and creative and I like him.
Mitt should choose Ron Paul. People would take Mitt more seriously because of Ron's record along with his strong support system. The combination of Mitt Romney and Ron Paul would be a surprising mixture but definitely a one-two knockout punch. They would unite the Republican Party.
Jon Huntsman, he needs someone who can get the independent vote and has real foreign policy experience.
I think the obvious choice for Romney is Tim Pawlenty. However, I wouldn't be surprised to see Rick Perry or Michele Bachmann though, don't forget the old assassination proof factor ( Dan Quayle ).
Mickey Mouse. It would add weight and authenticity to the ticket.
I'm going to set the record straight. Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton should stay put. Why? Because Secretary of State is a much more important job than the Vice-Presidency. Moreover, Hillary is excelling at the job. Similarly, Joe Biden is doing a perfectly fine job as VP; namely- he's not saying anything stupid in public. A switch would be silly.
straight up......bill cosby, a republican kinda black guy
I think Romney should be Huntsman's VP.
Harold Stassen, or his ghost if it's still there!
More of a wish list. Either Connie Rice or Coin Powell... that would bring credibility and experience to that ticket.
Mitt should choose Ron Paul to be his running mate. People would take Mitt more seriously because of Ron's record along with his strong support system. The combination of Mitt Romney and Ron Paul would be a surprising mixture but definitely a one-two knockout punch. They would unite the Republican Party.
Instead of relying on what is usually done, Romney should think outside of the box and choose someone who is politically savy but EXPERIENCED with creating LONG TERM jobs and not jobs that will be gone like this holiday season. Also needs to be someone who is somewhat socially moderate to bring in independents like myself.
todd palin
Mr Cafferty great segment, here is my fantasy as you say. And it would be sort of a dream for the press. Imagine a ron paul for VP. It sounds delusional at first but there are a lot of factors going into this. If Dr. Paul runs as a third party candidate that would take a heck of a lot of votes from romney in the general election. That is one of the things going Dr. Paul has going for him. But its not like he has alternatives to his views, neither do his followers. I see one thing that romney can win Dr.Paul over as well as his followers, and that is the stoping of Bills like SOPA and the NDAA which are undermining the liberties Dr. Paul and his followers take so seriously. Romney would win a lot of votes with this, and can lose a lot of votes with Dr.Paul running as a third party. David – Dallas, Texas
Ron Paul needs to be in the White House one way or the other #cnndon'tignorepaul
Well I think it is a little early for that. We should have a " Progressive " to offset the "conservative " Mitt Romney. Either John Huntsman or maybe even Jack Cafferty ?
Hi Jack, what is Mr Colin Powell up to nowadays, with Mitt having all the Business smarts, Mr Powell will be an ideal candidate to help Mitt on matters of international affairs, security, etc – just my view
I like Condoleeza Rice to be Mitt Romney's VP,guarantee he wil beat Obama.
I wish with all my heart that the VP choice would be Bachman, we need the laughs to keep coming. If not her there is a great pool of clowns to pick from.
Romney needs to help shore up his support among the crazies. Obviously the person cannot be from the political establishment. So I recommend someone like Charlie Sheen.
Get Huckabee back in the game as running mate. Jon Hunstman as Secretary of State. IF Obama ever did decide to have Hillary as his VP – he deserves to win just for making the decision to replace Biden.
actually my 1st choice is a Marco Rubio / Bobby Jindal, but a Romney & Rubio or Romney Jindal ticket would cream our current administration.
I'd like to see Jon Huntsman on the ticket, to moderate Romney's positions. (Or at least the conservatism that Romney's faked as a Presidential candidate, compared to the liberalism he faked as Governor.)
But Huntsman won't happen: two Mormons on the ticket would be a bit too much for most voters.
If Mitt Romney gets the nomination, the GOP has just handed the "Presidency" right back to Pres Obama. There is still another choice to Mitt. That person is Paul. Mitt is a big government, insider millionaire, flip-flopper, and Pres Obama will tare him apart during the debates. That leaves Paul. The GOP, and the main stream media better learn this, and learn it soon. If CNN would look at their own exit polling it showed last night at 10:33est on CNN that 88% of those who voted in New Hampshire think Paul can beat Pres Obama. On the other hand, only 4% from that same exit poll think Mitt could win against Pres Obama. This race will be won with the "Independent Vote". Mitt doesn't have it. Pres Obama doesn't have it. Who does have it? Dr. Ron Paul has it. He also has the vote of the young from 18 to 30. It's time to wake up to Dr. Ron Paul.
Three words Jack ! Three words....Joe The Plumber
He'll more than likely take Rubio or Tim Pawlenty. Santorum would be a possible long shot. If Christie wanted to be on the ticket at all he would have ran himself. Hillary will not be Obama's VP. She's gearing up for a 2016 run. Even if Obama did that it would make him look soft as if he's caving just to shore up his base. It would present the appearance of some kind of dual presidency and it wouldn't work at all. If Biden randomly chose to step down then maybe it could work, but otherwise he's doing just fine.
anyone from nebraska except ben nelson 0r bob kerry
It Huntsman runs with Romney, it will be a winning ticket. If that fat bully Christie runs on the ticket, I am going to vote for Obama.
How about Steve Forbes?
Jack, if Romney picks Chris Christie, Obama should be scared – be VERY scared! That is because it will unite the Republicans as they have not been united in years. And it will all but guarantee that the next president of the United States will be Mitt Romney.
As I see it, there is only one way Obama can prevent that from happening. That is to ask Joe Biden to quietly depart and have Hillary Clinton become his running mate. If Obama does that, he might get the privilege of another four years in the White House – and I would definitely prefer that to a Romney/Christie administration!
How about Marie Osmond?
He should run with Palin and seal his fate. At least he could use her as the excuse for losing.
It really won't matter whom he wants because the powers that be in the GOP-Tea Party won't let him pick them. They will pick. It will be a wolf in sheep's clothing. They will put this particular person in a room and groom them where they will seem seem sane when in front of a microphone but actually they are just as mental as the 2008 choice that shall remain nameless.
He should pick Huntsman. Because the more Mormons the merrier.
Romney NEEDS Florida to win the White House (the Republicans could pick Springsteen for VP and still lose Jersey)...so it HAS to be Rubio. In fact, it WILL be Rubio. Mark it down.
An obvious choice is Rubio for the Latin vote . I'm voting Democrat
Not any of the anti-Romneys, and in particular not the anti-Christ Gingrich. He needs a southerner to appeal to that crowd - Jeb Bush!
Huntsman. It's the only way he'll be even remotely able to draw independent voters with his history of neverending flip flops.
Jeb Bush
Who would want to be VP to a guy with a nickname like Nitwit Mitt! Maybe brain of a Newt Gingrich? Na that's one bridge that will never be rebuilt!
Anyone but Palin....that said, a couple of suggestions would be Lindsey Graham, maybe Pawlenty or Chris Christie – they would all be good choices but will leave it up to Romney.
Too bad Leona Helsley isn't available – she'd be a great complement to a guy like Mitt. Although mean and dumb would be better. Maybe a guy like Martin Borman? One thing for sure – no one with any integrity or having even rudimentary morals would run on a republican ticket , since republicans stand for waging immoral and illegal foreign wars, transferring wealth from the poor and middle class to the already wealthy, and for heinous government intrusion on private lives, including using teh government to stuff kook religious beliefs down non-believers throats.
someone that doesn't mind losing
Ron Paul. He has a clear 2nd place position, and a Romney/Paul ticket would bring together both sides of the Republican party. It would be similar to a Reagan/Bush ticket in 1980.
GEN. now CIA Director Petrasus. Solid track record, education, experience. Long service in one of the Government's most admired institutions. Vetted on both the National and International stages. The word is gravitas.
Bob McDonnell from VA. Whichever party carries the VA vote for President, that Party will pick up the votes for the open Senate seat being vacated by Jim Webb. McDonnell is bright and conservative, and is the slam-dunk pick for Romney.
Mitt/Newt 2012! It works because they both have funny names. It's better than Mickey and Mini, or Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum (although Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dummer comes to mind.) When they realize that they could win the election as the Mitt-Newt ticket, Mitt can flip-flop his opinions of Newt and vice versa, just like Obama and Hillary did.
At the exit polls in November People will be saying, I voted for Mitt-Newt, and wearing Mitt-Newt tee-shirts, and sporting Mitt-Newt bumper stickers on their cars. It fits so well on a bumper sticker, short and sweet. It will be an election slogan to be remembered for decades, like "I like Ike", or "He's Tanned, Rested and Ready, Nixon in '96". Remember that one? Or how about that schoolyard jingle, "Linden's britches falling down, falling down, falling down…Linden's britches falling down, eeee-lect Reagan!".
How about "Newt and Mitt, the perfect fit"? Or “Mitt and Newt give a hoot"?
Howdy doody, we can call Mitt buffalo Bob
Governor Mitch Daniels of Indiana. This election is going to be all about competence, a commodity in very short supply in Washington, DC at present. The combined competence of a Romney-Daniels ticket will so overwhelm our current hopelessly incompetent President/Vice President. Then our wonderful country can move ahead on dealing with some of the most difficult issues of our day starting January 20th, 2013.
Either Christie or Giuliani would be a good pick. I also think Huntsman would also be a decent running mate.
The best suited VP for Mitt Romney would be Chris Christie, he is passionate, well-liked,and smart. Mitt and Chris would be great together.A huge threat to the Obama re-election and with that said I hope he chooses Bachmann, the 2012 Sarah Palin. GO OBAMA!
If Romney is smart, he will pick Marco Rubio for his VP. He is young and Hispanic which will take people from Obama's base. He is conservative which will help draw in Tea Party voters. And he will help pull in votes in Florida without which Mitt cannot win the election.
Who cares who he will pick. He's going to fire his VP anyway. He just likes firing people.
How about Boehner, McConnell or Cantor. Then if Romney wins, he would have a 'mission impossible' on his hands.
Ron Paul would provide a good balance to a Romney ticket. Anything that would get Obama out, would work for me.
Just a thought...how about Gov. Susana Martinez (R-NM)
The fat man from Jersey. Let girth roll
John Huntsman would be the best choice. He is honorable, intelligent, and would put this country first, before party politics. He would, also, restore some dignity to a party that has lost much of it during the past years.
If Huntsman wasn't a Mormon, he'd be a great choice. Nominating a double-Mormon ticket is a non-starter. It should be someone who speaks with a southern accent.
President: Ron Paul
VP: Jon Huntsman
Sec of State: Rand Paul
Ron Paul is the only one who would give him a fighting chance against Obama. Any other pick would look like the same old stuff with a different flavor. We need real change not just words of hope for change. Hopefully this next election will result in many House and Senate pink slips because that's the real problem.
Grover the pledge Norquist
Some BODY from the 1% so that the 99% Occupy the voting booth crowd has something to leave blank.
How about Gov. Sarah Palin or Suzanna Martinez? Condi Rice?
Pawlenty should be Romney's VP choice. This would give us in Minnesota the satisfaction of getting Pawlenty out of our state and watching him lose on a national scale all in one stroke.
Either Mike Huckabee or Condoleezza Rice. Either way, the RNC ticket beats the DNC ticket hands down!
Both Marco Rubio and Chris Christie are not yet experienced enough in politics to be a heartbeat away from the Presidency. I like the Colin Powell suggestion earlier. That man is a statesman and certainly well qualified.
Jack ,, I'm not sure who he should pick but I can tell what he absolutely can't do. He can't make the same mistake that McCain did in 08 and that is to go off the reservation in search of a super conservative to appease the right wingers. . He needs to appease independents. The right will never vote for Obama no matter what. The nomination of Sarah Palin lost McCain the independent vote and ultimately the election.
Everyone wants to talk about change and someone needs to finally live it and bring to the table the first bipartisan ticket in American history. Choose a running mate that polls strongly with middle of the road Democrats and you have appeal to all voters and a very good chance at defeating Obama.
Hi Jack, Romney thinks corporations are people, so maybe he can pick one as a running mate. He should pick a corporation that likes firing people as much as he does; how about Bain Capital?
I believe Kermit The Frog is the only viable VP choice for Romney. I'm positive he can heal the fractured GOP.
It should be Huntsman, but he won't select another LDS member. Doesn't matter. The Republicans are biding their time until 2016 when they will bring out the big fun–Jeb Bush! Wait and see! It's a Bush, again, in 2016!
Condi Rice would be a worthy opponent in a debate with Joe Biden.
If Romney wins the nomination there will be another 4 years of Obama, he can't win the general election, so it really doesnt matter whom he selects as his running mate. I am sure he will "flip flop" on this decision a few times. It is such a shame, to go through another 4 years of what we have gone through. The only chance there is to beat Obama is called Ron Paul.
Rubio delivers Florida. No other state is as important to Romney's path to 270. Without Florida, this isn't even a competition. Obama wins. Romney must and will pick Rubio. There is no question about this. There are no other veep candidates even half as important. Put this to bed. Rubio will be the guy.
Governor Christie is obese! Hardly a role model for VP of the most powerful nation in the world. And he is crude. Has no class. Each time I see him on TV, I laugh. He really needs to go in a diet, pronto! Romney needs to take a woman, preferably one with a brain.
Jack, unfortunately for the Republican Party, Romney will be in the same situation that George H. W. Bush was in 1988 and McCain was in in 2008. Because thery are suspected of being a closet moderates they had to pick very conservative "bimbos," ie Qualye and Palin. Romney will have to do the same, so that eliminates Christie and Guiliani, et al.
Romney is not electable. His main street supporters so far do not understand Bain's LBO business model. It targets not only struggling companies, but also healthy companies under good management and low debt. So, LBO "entrpreneurs" would buy such a company not with their own money, but rather with money borrowed against company assets. Then, they would pay themselves millions as "special dividends" or "consulting fees", leaving behind a cripple burdened with debt, which is at high risk of bankruptcy. Gingrich is raising a very important issue here, which Romney and his ilk are trying to sweep under the carpet and paint as an assault on free market. Parenthetically, it is amazing that a lot of people on one hand want a solid anti-establishment candidate, but when presented with such in Gingrich, quickly fall in line with establishment vicious attacks on such a candidate. Ask youself why not only Republican establishment, but Democratic one as well are united in their hate for Gingrich and are rooting for Romney.
The last few years have spared no one from the economic pain, but many of us in Indiana are grateful for the job that our governor has done. We have weathered the storm better than most and I think Mitch Daniels has what it takes to bring real solutions to out nations economic woes. I have had my disagreements with his policies but I have always believed that the governor puts the interests of Indiana above any personal or political concerns. He would do the same for the nation as VP. It's just too bad he elected not to seek the top spot himself.
Nikki Haley. Why do you think she backed him so early?
Why do some of you think that just because Bachman is a female, women would vote for her? Fatal error. Women also like candidates who represent their legal reproductive rights. Bachman fails big time on that count (as well as many others) so don't be silly. Didn't you learn anything from McCain's fatal choice?
Ron or Rand Paul. Independents love them, they are strong on the economy and the Federal Reserve and they are the farthest thing from flip floppers. Ron Paul will also have the 2nd most delegates come convention time.
Hunstman. This would help lock in the independents and bring some much needed far-east experience to the executive branch. The right will still come out for Romney/Huntsman as they hate Obama about as much as the left hated GW Bush. It would also bring more than just talk of bipartisanship, but an actual track record (between Romney with the democrat legislature in Mass and Hunstman serving as Ambassador).
No need to speculate on who Mitt Romney will pick as his running mate. The rich group that is behind his nomination have that person already picked. They have this whole campaign orchestrated down to last detail including when Mitt Romney is suppose to smile.
I'm still voting for "that one", so Joe Biden will do just fine.
I like C. Rice for Pres and C. Powell for VP!
Joe Lieberman, watch and see.
Marco Rubio – then we will truly restore this great country!!
Jack:
As a moderate progressive, I admire John Huntsman greatly (for his moderate social values and his fiscal conservatism) and would consider the Romney-Huntsman ticket seriously. Just as President Obama chose Joe Biden for his foreign affairs, John Huntsman would bring to bear relationships and skill in negotiating with this century's emerging superpower: China.
Huntsman for sure. With 2 Mormons in the house they won't drink the alcohol and will save on the deficit.
Ron Paul. He has a clear 2nd place position, and a Romney/Paul ticket would bring together both sides of the Republican party. It would be similar to a Goldwater/Rockefeller in 1964.
Chicago, Illinois
Joe Lieberman-brilliant on so many levels for the general election and makes Romney look more authentic: it's a twofer!
Dick Cheny, he has the most experience running the country off in a ditch with the policies they are proposing.
It doesn't really matter as long as it's not Ron Paul. The thoughts of him being that close to the presidency is almost as scary as the thoughts of Palin being that close.
John Thune of S.D. Honest intelligent man. Should have been a presidential candidate.
Actually Christie did raise the taxes on Jersey bidges and tolls, it was your former lovely fraudulant democratic governor Jon Corzine.
Jack,
Somebody who doesn't mind losing.
Jim
Reno, Nevada
Huntsman would be a good choice. Obama will lose regardless of the VP selection.
Romney will not have a VP, he will have a running mate. He would have to win the Presidency to have a VP
or...maybe Jeb Bush
Well, this is a tough question. With all of the arguing that is going on amongst the republican candidates I would have to say Hunstman. No way would Gingrich be acceptable, and Ron Paul has too soft a view of the Iran situation, and all I see is conflict there. I am not sure who Mitt Romney will pick, but I hope it is a good solid choice! I am voting for Mitt Romney and have been in full support of him since he announced his candidacy. Thank you, Lynn
Romney will pick Christie, and they'll play "bad cop, good cop" for four years.
Seriously Huntsman who seems to be the sane canidate at this point
Marco Rubio is the optimal pick. He would help Mitt carry the must win state of Florida, make headway for him in the Latino vote, and also help Mitt balance out his moderate reputation by selecting a staunch conservative.
Seriously; Huntsman, who seems to be the sane canidate at this point
Jon Huntsman is clearly the most intelligent, reasonable guy in the room, he has foreign policy experience, he doesn't have to resort to crazy rants to get attention, he has shown integrity in not pandering to the Ranting Crazy People demographic, and he knows how to play with both sides of the political field. Which is crucial, because if anything is ever going to actually get done in this country we need to get past throwing stones at each other and accusing anyone who disagrees with us of being un-American and hating freedom. Go Huntsman!
i was disappointed to see that all you cared about in the debate was "entertainement". hope the people are looking at this as a way to solve their real life problems – which means entertainement is out.
i would have barred my kid for one week from tv if she asked for entertainment when needed to do math home work for her finals.
Romney/Christie GOP ticket, that should take care of that mess we have in there now
Chris Christy, Paul Ryan or Marco Rubio could be good, though I could easily see Rubio overshadowing Romney from the charisma standpoint.
It doesn't matter because he can't beat Obama. Young people like me will vote 3rd party if Ron Paul doesn't get the nomination. I'm done with the status quo. I wish older people would stop giving into war mongering propaganda.
There isn't a Republican running for office that is qualified to be either President or Vice President they are all clowns. Wait a minute now that I said that I know what any one of them can be " COURT JESTER". YES I vote any of them court Jester. I knew there was something they qualified for. ALL RIGHT.
I think he should go for Ron Paul. If he doesn't and Ron Paul goes rogue and pursue a third party run, then the republicans may have lost a great deal of the youth vote. Ron Paul energizes independents because he is straightforward and has some good ideas and Romney needs this if he wants to beat Obama. It would also bring a good balance to a Romney Administration.
I believe Condoleezza Rice would be a good pick.
RoboMan, Dick Cheney
Charlie Crist
of ...Jim DeMint
Christine O'Donnell
Obviously it should be the "other" Mitt. The one who's for everything this one's against, and against everything this one's for. He's been on both sides of every issue, so it should be a piece of (let 'em eat) cake.
Yawn! Who cares! He can never be the nominee
Condi Rice, the complete antithesis of Palin. A winning ticket with strong leadership skills in business and foreign affairs. The far left and big government Obama, would lose big time to these two moderate Republicans.
well if the media creation we have for pres.now can pick a wingnut like biden it wouldn't matter much except for the bias in the msm.however,romney is close enough to obama maybe he should pick biden if obama picks hillary.
What about New Hampshire Senator Kelly Ayotte? Romney could do what McCain tried to do with Palin: attract the female vote, except he would be doing it with someone who is both more capable of helping Romney win the nomination and of being a good Vice President.
Jack: Mitt can pick any body he wants. It does not matter. Obama is OUR president for the next 4 years. PERIOD
If Romney selects Condalisa Rice, game over. Even Hillary could not save Obama!
If he wants to win: He'd have to add Ron Paul (if he'd do it). It'd be nice if he lets Ron be the President and he can be the VP
If he doesn't add Ron Paul- he will lose and SCAMerica will die a rotten death.
Romney will pick who ever he thinks will get him elected. Just like he says anything that he thinks voters want to hear. Mr Flip Flop will probably name a number of different people prior to the convention depending on what crowd of people he is talking to. For me who he picks is irrelevant. I don't buy that going back to the old policiies that got us into this economic mess as the answer. I'm voting Obama.
While seemingly demure when asked if they have any aspirations to be VP, I would say that Pawlenty, Whitman, Rubio, and Christie all are privy to the idea. While it may be for the wrong reasons, I would say that any of the four would make a fine running mate for Romney.
I believe Romney will be the party nominee and that his abiltity to defeat Obama may well rest on his selection of the right running mate. If he must select a politically acceptable running mate my first choice would be Condolezza Rice. If he is looking for an honorable and proven leader who would bring immediate respect to the ticket General David Petreus gets my vote. Hooah....
Huntsman. Two Mormons are twice as much fun as one.
He could pick Obama...maybe then, he could win.
Hey Jack. The no-brainer way for him to balance his ticket in a way to please the majority of the republican party will be to choose Santorum. Romney will have the business skills/pragmatism and Santorum will offer a greater sense of humanity and compassion than Romney could ever hope to (not to mention this will please the evangelicals).
Miami, FL
Mitt Romney/Marco Rubio is a winning ticket.
Though I also like Chris Christie as a VP, though he would not be as effective with the Hispanic vote.
Eric Canter would be perfect, since they both have the same agenda–Abolish Social Security and Medicare, and give the savings benefit as tax breaks for the wealthy. In his Today interview this AM, Romney says there is nothing wrong with Wall Street, and the problem with the 99ers is envy, and not the CEOs who are paid extremely well for failure or fraud.
If he wants to be elected, he should pick Huntsman. But I think Christy has the inside line.
I think Jerry Sandusky would be a great choice. Think of all the free publicity he'll bring to the ticket in the next several months. Won't need all that pac and big corporate money to keep the media hyped.
If he want to win he will pick Christie.... if he want to pick based on his beliefs he will pick Huntsman.
Dan Quayle
ME!!!
Dan in St. Louis, MO
Aizon's Sheriff Arpaio
Answer: Perry
He needs someone with a different faith background to carry the Christian Evangelist crowd and Perry has not attacked him hard enough for there to be too many open wounds.
Read the tea leaves folks: It's Nikki Haley, Governor of South Carolina!
The Chairman of Goldman Sachs has already purchased the position of VP
"I'm the Flopper of Flipdom. I don't need any stinkin' VP."
David Petraeus
It will most assuredly be the Governor of SC, Ms. Nikki Haley. Mark my words.
Whomever he selects for his VP will need to be VERY in tune w/ real issues in America. Someone who won't sell propaganda & well written rhetoric to potential voters because Mitt is very disconnected w/ the American people & well written speeches will not win him a seat in the White House. Making classless bets of $10K in an economy that's just getting it's bearings back or comments like "I like to fire people" will remain branded in our heads far longer than his Obama bashing.
I guess you all have anointed him king already? IS there a reason to keep going with the primaries in the remaining states? Seems you have already made up your mind who you want to be President.
Romney won't have a VP, he will never be elected.
Dorothy from the OZ...That way when the house falls on the rest of us...we can use her red slippers to get out of the situation.
I believe the best candidate for Mitt Romney would be Hillary Clinton as this would keep him in touch with reality. His sociopathic manifestations could only be cared and managed by someone like Hillary.
How about Luis Fortuño, governor of Puerto Rico as VP.
Mitt will need to balance ticket with conservative, as he is a Republican throw back to the Rockefeller, Prescott Bush moderate-liberal wing of Republican party. Obama will be crushed if he appoints solid conservative. Personally I like Lindsay Graham.
No question. We need 2 mormons in DC. Besides, Huntsman can go back to China and bring some money back. In addition, this would mean a consruction of another morman tabernacle in DC.
It should be Michelle Bachman ! We want to have some fun in the race !
Is this the best? The brightest, America has to offer? GOP party! How embarrassing for America. Their all puppets for the multi national 'Corporations. Determined to destroy a once great country.
Mitt Romney will have his alter-ego as his running mate.
Actually it doesn't matter because he won't need one.
I like the idea of a bi-partisan ticket. It would set an example for Congress that government is a managerial responsibility and not a personal platform for egomaniacs to impose their will on the people. It sounds utopian, but it's about time we acted like a grown up nation and not like a bunch of bratty children.
Jack, didn't you forget a tiny little fact? The election in Nov.? Romney will actually have to WIN the election to provide us with a vp. Until then, who cares about this GOP chaos?
Thought I'd mention it...
I think Bozo the Clown would make a fine choice as Romney's running mate. It's good to have brains on a ticket.
Fred Smith, the man who founded and has nurtured FedEx to one of the Top Ten most respected companies in the world.
People should look beyond the election when considering the makeup of the ticket. The second name on the ticket would become VP, and as such would be a heartbeat away from the presidency. Would you want Rick Perry to ever get that close to the oval office?
Senator Rubio.
Romney is gonna run out of steam
we all know who the front "runner" is, and its Ron Paul. Nobody i know, period is voting for Romney, even my 85 year old grandmother who is pretty rightwingish. The only one who can school and destroy obama, and walk him..is ron paul on the constitution. that man sleeps with it practically every night.
it's his time, the message is clear, people are waking up to the lies that both parties have been spewing since 1960
Lady Gaga, She's almost as rich as he is and what more could the loony right want than a woman that wears a red meat dress?
Nikki Haley. She reads newspapers and she kept her distance from palin
Sarah Palin! Sorry, couldn't help myself.
Mitt Romney's running mate should be Hillary Clinton as she is the only person that can manage the sociopathic manifestations coming from the former governor. Hillary would help keep him on the path of serving the people of this great nation.
I think any of three people would be great choices for Mitt. 1) Bobby Jindal would add a southern governor who guided the state of the Louisiana through many hardships. He could rally the southern base of the party behind him while adding a minority candidate to the ticket. 2) Marco Rubio would be a good choice. Very popular senator from a state that may decide the election. Young charismatic leader, and in my view, a future president. 3) Chris Christie would give energy to the campaign, would be able to outspeak Biden and could turn New Jersey into a contest.
It doesn't matter who Romney's VP is... Obama wins if Ron Paul runs as an Independent.
This would fracture the Republican Party, while the Democrats remain resilient.
He could pick a hand puppet and it would still be better than the current POTUS and VP. Dick Morris said today there is statitstically no way Obama wins reelection. I hope and pray he is right. How anyone can want four more years of the disaster we have been living under for the last three is beyond me. Only a blind idealogue with no concern for what is best for the country would want to continue down this path.
Rubio – a calculated move both in terms of state and ethnicity. Makes me worry a bit as I'd prefer Obama. Mitt won't energize the fundies, but he will appeal to the disgruntled moderates. Heck, he might not even be that bad, but I've always felt he was a public phoney and that ticks me off just by itself.
C'mon Jack: "VP with a strong business background, experience, ... to avoid the so-called Palin syndrome. translation: .able to name some newspapers they read and a couple of Supreme Court cases.
We had some stellar examples of that, didn't we: Cain and Trump? Not too much on the bright side, these two, when it comes to 'governing' a country. Oh, there was the non-politician Barbie Bachmann, with her business experience (turning gays straight and collecting fed money for WI farms). Cheney had business experience / connections. Noooo thanks. George W ran businesses (into the ground) and then the government too.
All great US presidents came from a vastly different background, but surely not business. Thanks, but no thanks to business types running the country.
Karl Rove would be the most profitable and probably the one guy he owes the most to. Then we could always consider the Prophet from the Salt Lake City Temple who talks to God regularly and also talks with Mittens.
Your fantasy isn't original I'm afraid as it's been widely speculated that Clinton might replace Biden. See Robert Reich.
The entire republican offering is like offering a starving man regurgitated slop. Besides, there are no republicans with any brains that can meet Obamas, let alone beat him.
I think any prediction might be premature. I expect his candidacy to go up in a ball of flames when that Bain Capital info really gets out there.
Mary Bono Mack, Congresswoman from California. She has a business background, is a mother and a stepmother, has been elected over and over from a district that has a both a large senior citizen and a large gay population, her husband Connie Mack looks like he will be elected a Senator from Florida, has a good record on working for consumers, is a female, balances the ticket being from the West, etc.
I hope he goes with Christie. Two East Coast candidates will ensure Obama wins key Western states.
Howdy Doody (if you remember him),, The VP job is something a dummy could do, we have had a few of those before.
Huntsman makes sense except for two small problems – he's brighter than Mitt and they are both Mormons. To get the regional balance and throw a bone to the anybody but Mitt crowd, I'd guess it will be Perry.
Nikki Haley from SC. Why? Because she satisfies the crazy quotient that the Republican base adores AND has already endorsed Romney, so no potential problems there. Add in that she's from the South, and it's a no brainer. Literally.
Pailin
I am voting democrat this time, two many poor choices on republican side. I am pretty ticked at Republican House and democrat Senate right now. I have not seen anyone up to speed with Obama and that is pretty bad. They don't attack the issues, they attack the person. For example is to get rid of Obama and repeal everything done during his administration. Sounds Personal, Sounds Predjudice racially, religiously, and politically.
I am a middle of the road independent and middle class and I have a problem with the hardliners either way. If a McCain and Gingich combo was running, they would have my vote.
The obvious choice, which a majority of the posts are saying, is Huntsman. I think that many of us in the 'center'; Republican, Democrat or Independent; would prefer to see Huntsman as the nominee as I think he would win the election in a heartbeat.......................he is what America needs.....................intelligent, experienced, and moderate.....................'we can only wish' !!!!!
Wow. Not too many thinkers in the group is there. Rubio would be my choice. Humble beginnings, self made, knows how D.C. works and would appeal to the Latinos who would or at least might abandon Preident Obama. I truly dislike President Obama, not because of his race or faith, whatever it is, but because of his policies. I do have the utmost respect for the office he holds however and would never call him by his last name. Try to show some class folks and I don't mean the low class many of the commenters show.
Oh Sarah Palin for sure; she helped McCain so much! (snuffle, choke, chortle, snicker).