VP for McCain would decide election

In a Presidential election, it is usually the top of the ticket that influences a voter. Of course, the VP is 'a heartbeat away' from the presidency, but we tend not to pay much attention to that. Not this time for John McCain. This will be the first election, that I can recall, where the choice of the VP could make a big difference. Since the odds of him not completing his first term are higher that average, he has to choose someone who is much younger and can be ready to lead within the hour.

Such a person should be one who has already demonstrated, at least partially, his or her ability to be a President. In addition, given Mr. McCain's tense relations with the ultra-right wing of the party (a substantial GOP base), this VP candidate should be the one who can work hand-in-glove with this fringe. Two men come to mind: the reborn conservative Mitt Romney, and the preacher Mike Huckabee.

Undoubtedly, either of these will be disasters if they take the office. Maybe this should energize voters - Democrats, Independents and sensible Republicans - not to vote for Mr. McCain.