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From The Sunday Times
May 4, 2008
Obama-Clinton, a hate-filled dream ticket
It is for many in the Obama camp an unthinkable thought. But politics is sometimes the art of adjusting today to what seemed inconceivable yesterday. I'm talking about the possibility — and the powerful logic — of a unity Obama-Clinton ticket for the Democrats.
I never thought I'd even consider it; but times change; politics shifts, and in the roiling flux of this American campaign, a bold unifying gesture could make the Democratic ticket — and an Obama presidency — unstoppable almost overnight. It's still highly unlikely, but so was JF Kennedy running with Lyndon Johnson and Ronald Reagan running with the first George Bush.
The rationale for a fusion ticket is the same as for any grand political compromise. Very few people in Washington believe that Barack Obama can now be denied the Democratic nomination. Even after the past month, as Hillary Clinton has hung in there, as the scandal about Jeremiah Wright (Obama's firebrand cleric) scandal has battered the post-racial Obama brand, and as white Reagan Democrats have proven resistant to a new young black freshman senator, Obama has actually increased his number of delegates. Clinton simply cannot overcome the edge he built up in February and March, however cruel his April turned out to be. And the superdelegates — who will ultimately decide -- have also been slowly trending his way.
The decision last week by the former Clintonite Democratic Party chairman, Joe Andrew, to switch from Clinton to Obama confirmed the super-delegate trend.
And the raw truth is: Clinton's victories in Ohio and Pennsylvania and persistence in states such as North Carolina and Indiana, which vote this Tuesday, have kept Obama from closing the deal definitively. Worse: the demographics seem to be hardening into a difficult dynamic for him. White working-class women — crucial to Democratic marginal states — remain resistant to his charms. Hispanics are also iffier than they should be. Somehow, the Clintons' brutal assault on his brand, aided and abetted by conservative media outlets, such as Rush Limbaugh and Bill O'Reilly, have managed to dent this unifier a little.
That, of course, is why so many in the Democratic party are furious at the Clintons. The only way Hillary can now win is by tearing down the Obama candidacy even further — a candidacy that has brought more new voters, more money and more enthusiasm into Democratic ranks than at any time since 1992. If she were somehow to persuade the superdelegates to pick her over the obvious favourite of primary voters, she would provoke an implosion in the party, brutal payback from young, black and independent Obama fans, and a real crisis at the Democratic convention.
So what is she up to and what is Obama to do about it? There are three main theories behind Clinton's refusal to acquiesce to mathematics: she simply cannot tolerate losing a nomination she believes she has a dynastic right to; she is trying to ensure that Obama loses in 2008 in order to run again herself in 2012; or she wants to be offered the vice-presidential spot on an Obama-led ticket. I'm beginning to suspect the last option is the most plausible, and it gives Obama a potential opening: why not give her what she wants? An Obama-Clinton ticket would certainly give the Democrats a massive sigh of relief — and perhaps some euphoria.
The conservative white voters that Clinton has amazingly managed to attract could be combined with the massive infusion of new young votes, internet money, and African-American enthusiasm to create a potential tsunami in the election. Instead of having to pick between the first black president and the first woman president, the Democrats could offer voters both: the first black president and first female vice-president. Worries about Obama's relative youth and lack of Washington experience would be allayed by the presence of the Clintons. The toxicity of the Clinton baggage could be balanced by the hope Obama has inspired.
The Clintons could be deployed to shore up support in some of the Reagan Democrat states, while Obama wins over enough independents to carry the Mountain West and the upper Midwest. California, Ohio, New York, Florida and Pennsylvania could be secured. The downside? They hate each other. Over this campaign, Obama's supporters, along with many others, have been taken aback by the raw, unprincipled bare-knuckle politics that the Clintons have unleashed against the greatest talent to emerge in national politics since Bill Clinton himself. Moreover, the core appeal of Obama has been that he isn't a Clinton; he hasn't capitulated to the zero-sum politics of Karl Rove, George W Bush's mastermind. His outreach to new and young and non-Democratic voters has been premised on an end to the kind of politics the Clintons represent. When I raised the idea of an Obama-Clinton ticket on my blog last week, Obama-supporting readers were outraged and offended. I can see why. I defer to nobody in my contempt and suspicion of the Clintons.
And yet I can also see that the new politics Obama represents has provoked a ferocious backlash from the established political class; and his weakness (as well as his appeal) as a candidate is his reluctance to engage in the kind of street-fighting that politics can sometimes — and must sometimes — become. By picking Clinton as a vice-president, he would be pulling a classic American manoeuvre — getting a surrogate to do the dirty pugilism of the campaign, while using his own extraordinary skills to provide a unifying and uplifting overall theme. Picking Clinton would also defuse genuine concerns among older voters that he is just too green to be entrusted with presidential power just yet.
Remember Kennedy-Johnson? They too loathed each other and cast extremely different shadows in American public life. But Kennedy put Johnson on his ticket in order to achieve exactly what Obama needs to achieve now: bringing more conservative, practically-minded voters into his camp. There are other figures who could do this for Obama — most obviously, the anti-war Reagan Democrat senator Jim Webb from Virginia. Webb also neutralizes McCain's veteran appeal to heartland voters. And Webb has a tough campaigning streak as well.But the hard reality is that the Democratic party is deeply divided and Webb cannot bring the losing faction with him.
The Clinton dynasty has lost to the new pretender, but it hasn't been defeated in one fell swoop. Dynasties rarely are. The old guard also has enough clout and enough support to threaten Obama with considerable collateral damage — if it wants to — and that's the message it is now clearly sending.
The old political adage that you should keep your friends close but your enemies closer therefore seems appropriate. Clinton will not be running for president in 2012 if she is vice-president in 2009. The same could not be said if she were consigned back to the Senate to lick her wounds and plot her future. If Obama wanted to flatter her even more, and keep her occupied, he could offer her the healthcare portfolio — allowing her a second chance to do what she so fatally failed to do 15 years ago. And if she turned him down, he could nonetheless say that at least he tried.
The biggest problem, of course, is Bill. He is an inveterate meddler, and thinks of Obama as his nemesis. Having a former president married to your vice-president could give Obama a huge headache as president. But what we've seen in this campaign is how resilient the Clintons are and how dangerous they will be to any Democratic president who isn't beholden to them. Better, perhaps, to co-opt them and bring them into the tent than to have them as dangerous dynastic rivals outside it.
There's also a way for Obama to explain this choice in a way that does not violate — and in fact strengthens — his core message. His model in this should be Abraham Lincoln. What Lincoln did, as Doris Kearns Goodwin explained in her brilliant book, "Team Of Rivals," was to bring his most bitter opponents into his cabinet in order to maintain national and party unity at a time of crisis. Obama — who is a green legislator from Illinois, just as Lincoln was — could signal to his own supporters in picking Clinton that he isn't capitulating to old politics, he is demonstrating his capacity to reach out and engage and co-opt his rivals and opponents. Done deftly, picking Clinton could even resonate with Obama's supporters as a statesmanlike gesture, a sign of the kind of reconciliation he wants to achieve at home and abroad and energize his own party for the fall. It is consonant with his core message: that he can unify the country in a way few other politicians can. It would even help heal the gulf that has opened up between the Clintons and black voters in this campaign. It's win-win all round.
I hesitate to propose this, but I do think it is now worth actively considering for the first time in this campaign. The test of a president is his ability to recognise his own weaknesses and adjust to them. If he can do that while strengthening his core message, and make his own election close to unstoppable, what would hold him back?
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OUR COLUMNISTS
You mention Abe Lincoln and John Kennedy. They might have used good political tactics, but just remember what happened to them in the end.
Larry Svetlik, Victoria, USA
Hillary represents an appreciable amount of voters. If Obama claims to be the candidate of all Americans, he cannot not take Hillary. If she misbehaves as VP ->OUT, if she truly plays her role of VP, she will be useful for her country. That is only what matters. United Democrats don't give up!
Jacques, PARIS , FRANCE
Great article that speaks alot of truth usin examples from history, our greatest teacher. But, also, as a Democrat living in the present, it is obvious to me that an Obama - Clinton ticket IS a dream ticket - One that will assure victory in November, and cultivate a unified, ENERGIZED Party!!
HEATHER, WASHINGTON, USA
Clinton on Obama's ticket what a good idea . Remember the words to bright future.....two is better than one and vice versa. So what if Clinton is in Obama's ticket, I think that'll be a nice and the best decision Obama can ever have.
Apinya "Mey" Harnpoonwittaya, Bangkok, Thailand
No further questions will ask if Obama will place Clinton as his VP. Clinton is by far excellent in her leadership, that's why nearly 18 millions voted her. A woman in man's pants is like a woman full of courage.
Apinya "Mey" Harnpoonwittaya, Bangkok, Thailand
Obama really has no choice if he truly wants to win. If he does not take Clinton as his running mate then Obama should just hand the election over to McCain now. Personally, I am normally a Democratic voter but if Clintons not on the ticket I would be forced to vote Republican.
christina, kokomo, usa
unity, unity, unity
steve, manchester,
No way! Clinton on the ticket would hand the election to McCain. She has way too many negatives.
Jeff, Portland, US
He MUSToffer it, and she MUST accept. For him to pass up the opportunity to look this good, having already established his own historic legacy, would be foolish. For her not to accept would relegate her to the losers heap of women who knowlingly avoided having history lovingly pat them on the back.
Jim P, The Dalles, OR, USA
yes!!!!! HE NEED HER. He would be a fool not too!
Rose, Bloomington, Monroe
If Obama can not see the right on the wall and bring the democratic party together by having Hilliary has his VP...then I truly question his wisdom. One would have to question his decision making as a leader. History will show Hillary, the first woman, to run for president as a true fighter/leader.
Rose, Bloomington, Monroe
Obama would be wise to ask Mrs.Clinton to be the Vice Presidential nominee. Mrs.Clinton is very wise and would bring the much needed expeirence to the ticket. I think many of her supporters would then vote Democratic, if not they will vote Republican and put McCain in the White House
Edward Foley, White Hall, USA
Dream ticket? Maybe but the dream would be a nightmare.
Bruce Northwood, Silver Spring, USA
Clinton does not deserve to be Senator Barack Obama's VP. She played the dirtiest politics against him. Furthermore, she is so polarizing and her own desire to be president can spoil Senator Barack Obama's opportunity for the White House. Besides, where Bill would be? We reject Hillary as VP.
Elia , Stevens Point, USA
Do you gamble with Obama or play it safe with Clinton? The Dems are marching to Denver with two Presidents!
Daedalus, Boston, Ma., USA
The author of the article misses some uniquely American subtleties. The first of which is that a Vice-President nominee is not chosen to unite the party but rather to carry an important state. He mentions John Kennedy’s choice of Lyndon Johnson. Johnson was picked to carry Texas, not for party-unity
Michael Neese, Houston, Texas
No. Firstly, the presumption, inherent to Clinton's campaign, that Democrats who do not support Obama now won't back him in November, is rather preposterous, just as was Romney's campaign that Republicans won't vote for McCain. Secondly, Kennedy/Johnson barely won in 1960 - not a positive example.
Rob, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
An Obama/Clinton "Dream Ticket"? Get serious. Why would Hillary Clinton want to tie herself to a loser like Obama? All he has are a majority of blacks and a few college kids voting for him. He needs Hillary, not the other way around.
Obama will lose and Hillary will be president in 2012.
Jenny J, Portland, USA
Obama really would have to watch his back if Hillary and Bill were in the second slot. From her vicious remarks yesterday we can all see the way she is thinking - and what she really means by "Act of God".
Stay well clear of the Clintons, Obama.
Caroline Kennedy, San Jose, Costa Rica
The author of this article as well as several writers have used the Kennedy/Johnson team as an example of why there should be an Obama/Clinton ticket .I think I were Obama that would make me not choose Clinton. After all look how that matchup ended.
Obama and Evan Byah or Bill Richardson ..better!
anna houghton, gulf breeze, USA
John McCain for me. He's not exciting - but he's stable.
Andre, Portland, USA
Persuasively and brilliantly argued but wrong. The world let alone America needs a new kind of leadership and a massive change in direction. With Bill reestablished in the White House we shall be back to square one with Obama's and America's standing and influence in the world in tatters, swiftly.
LAKSHMAN PARDHANANI, GOA, India
Come this November, I will be doing something that I only imagined in my worst nightmare. I will be voting for Obama. And the reason for voting for Obama can be summed up in one word: Integrity. If Clinton is on the ticket, I will stay home.
Peter, Chicago, Illinois
Will our grandchildren still be around to see the end of this saga?
Who in Europe, (i.e. your average Joe), really cares in relation to the amount of media attention given?
terry, L'Absie, France
It would be much better for US (and the whole world!) for Clinton to be the Presidential candidate and Obama to be the VP; on the clear understanding that she would not serve a second term, thus ensuring 12 years of Democrat rule. A woman with a domestic policy agenda coupled with a male visionary!
John McGrath, Sydney, NSW, Australia
As a former national staff member of the Jesse Jackson '88 Campaign, I watched many of our key national field staff and supporters abandon the Dukakis campaign after Rev. Jackson as the number two vote getter was not VP. The tensions of 1988 are greater in 2008 and Obama must choose Clinton as VP
Mark S. Allen, Chicago,
He should be able to marginalize her as VP the same way Kennedy marginalized Johnson and the advantages of having her on the ticket outweigh the disadvantages. She has nothing to lose and is still in position to run in 2012 if Obama loses now. If he wins, she can't run in 2012 anyway.
Jack Purvis, New York ,
its so glearing that obama truely outclass both hillary and john the only ado is the issue of colour line,it certainly would have been a clean sweep for obama had he been light skined.if america is truely the land of the brave and the home of the freed then i think the next president should be obama
uwa john, lagos, nigeria
Whatever you do American, for the sake of the rest of the world, DO NOT elect John McCain! I really don’t want to be part of World War 3 thank you very much!
All 3 possible candidates are War Mongers, Hillary and John especially.
Look for independents.... If only Ron Paul was running.
Andrew, England, UK,
The same nation that put Bush in office a second time only 4 short years ago are again being manipulated by the media. Wake up America. Can't you see what's happening all over again?
Carla, Boulder, CO, USA
The neo-communists divided out country along racial and economic lines then played them against each other. Now after saying America wont let a black man run, he is running and beating Clinton. Blacks ran to Obama and left Clinton on the sides. They sowed those seeds, now the Dems can reap it.
William, Atlanta, USA
It seems to me that John Edwards would make a much better choice in terms of electability. Having a black/woman ticket seems like a recipe for the "southern strategy" to work really well, but Edwards would help in the south, and in a lot of other ways.
Owen Byrne, Halifax, Canada
Well, the good news is she appears to be going beyond Anger and Denial, and will soon be embarking on Bargaining... All we have to do now is wait for Depression and Acceptance and we have a full house.
Michael, Liverpool, UK
Having the Clintons inside the tent would be the start of the most openly disloyal cabinet since John Adams kept the Washington-Hamilton clique in place. If there is one thing that is patently obvious as a result of this campaign, it is that the Clintons see themselves as the OWNERS of the party.
Johnboy, WASHINGTON,
This won't happen. Not because Hillary is evil, as you all suggest, but because they won't swallow their pride for it. They're both too bloody vain for that.
To Caroline: HRC as VP couldn't 'conspire' to take the presidency; she'd be an incumbent in 2012.
The bile against Clinton must stop.
Rene C Moya, London/Los Angeles, UK/USA
hard to accept scenario
after what shes done, and capable of
if i were O i would look for an alternative
he couldnt trust her not to sabotage him
or worse i fear
& bill as co vice would be a nightmare
im tired of cllnton drama and would like to
turn the page, but i will trust obamas decision
arthur flowers, Syracuse,
Brilliant! If Obama can bridge the Democratic demographic divide that Clinton helped to deepen, he creates a dramatic demonstration of his new politics. Which is not in my view about some idealistic change, as his critics would have it, but a politics which engages the best of all us (even Hilary).
Todd Palmer, Chicago, US
I can see, politically for the Democratic Party, this dream ticket would be a favourable union - but, at the same time, no one can work closely effectively with someone you distrust, who is intensely disloyal and who is constantly conspiring behind your back to wrest the nomination from you in 2012.
Caroline Kennedy, San Jose, Costa Rica
I also think it is interesting that the Presidents mentioned in this article (who joined forces with enemy running mates) were all ASSASSINATED; and Ronald Regan was almost assassinated!!
THINK ABOUT IT.
Neffty, Los Angeles, CA
Absolutely crazy! All of what the Clintons have put him and the party through? He deserves someone who is loyal and a friend to him, not someone out to destroy him. As the saying is going around, he would have to hire a full time food taster if she were his VP.
Mari, las Vegas,
As much as I loathe Clinton, being an Obama supporter,
I think there are some merits here. An Obama/Clinton ticket
probably would be an "unstoppable force" in the Genral election as former President Clinton himself said. Although he thought then that Clinton should head the ticket.
interesting...
Ade Adebisi, Harrow,
But will Hillary's voters accept this state of affairs? Will they really show up if she's not "the man", but just the one who goes to funerals and opens bridges and stuff?
Kyle, Madison, WI, USA
i think this is just outright ludicrious!!! i voted for Obama b/c I like Obama and not Clinton! Therefore, I don't want Clinton either as President or Vice President! Everyone really needs stop being so fearful of these Clintons....They are merely humans just like the rest of us..
Jason, America,
I could be wrong, but I just don't believe that Ms. Clinton would agree to play second fiddle to anyone, Obama included. I simply don't think her temperament would allow it.
Terry L. Walker, Ladson, S C / USA
Dream ticket? The Republicans could have written it.
Eric Skeltons, Cardiff, Wales
Obama, Clinton(s), McCain.... every which way, it's an American insane, unintelligent, uninformed, unhinged, ignorant, hypocritical nightmare ticket.
Laura Roberts, London, UK
Very well said, and it almost echoes a rebirth of real Christianity, "Love your enemies." Yet, I think of all the great sports teams, their owners, and their managers, who out of a deep desire for victory have accepted the challenge of— "Taming the Shrew." Most failed miserably.
Daniel, San Diego, USA
I believe this is the only way to ratify and unify our great democratic party. The close minded people are slowly dwindling away, and dying. I dont believe there are enough of them to beat a unified democratic ticket.
Heather, Hobart, United States
Boris for President!
James, London, UK
dig that nightmare ticket, andrew. sure, why not give everyone a reason to vote mccain?
since when has shooting yourself in the foot been the compromise option?
jem, london, uk
The final consideration for the superdelegates will be whether Obama or Clinton would be most likely to win the presidency.
The answer to that question is inevitable.
martin brighton, sheffield,
You might just have got it right; but what will be left for the press after this happens?
Ian SISLEY, Arras, France
Wayne, Seattle, let's just call a spade a spade and stick and "a" in the middle there. Hillary's "a" baggage. Period. Which she seems to be constantly on...
Helen, Newbury,
Very good analysis. Obama would gain a lot of support for November by having Clinton on his ticket, and he would loose little, because the VP is a more symbolic office (unless the president dies or becomes incapacitated). But would Clinton accept his offer after the last democratic primary?
Peter T, Minneapolis, MN, USA
I predict it will be Obama/Bloomberg - just the perfect and unbeatable match.... we will see in June....
Migleu, Geneva,
Hillary is undoubtedly an experienced legislator and politician. Though she seems to possess a steely exterior, evidence has shown that she could crack under intense pressure that comes with the presidency. Don't ever forget the day she cried. She'll be a good No. 2 but will Bill's ego allow it?
Solomon O. Oke, Stevenage, UK
I think Obama-Webb would be an impressive ticket. Webb is a tough competitor with key strengths. Clinton proves every day how essential itis to leave the politics she plays so well far behind. It's not just about being a stink on the Obama brand. It's that she'd be in the WH undermining everything.
Irene in Mass., Westport, USA
Obama/Webb. That's the ticket.
Melvin, Post Falls, Idaho, USA
It would be a mistake for Obama to choose Hillary Clinton. He gets stuck with someone with the highest negative numbers of any of the 2007-2008 pack, Democrat or Republican. He also gets the Clinton baggage, particularly the post-2000 period. Appoint her Ambassador to Bosnia-Herzegovina instead.
Gary, Saskatoon, Canada
Obama has another choice: namely learning how to reach these voters that you mention. They are not voting for Clinton because she is white, they're voting for her because she is able, at the last minute, touch on something that attracts them. This time is the gas tax, last time it was the 3 am ad
Sean, Washington, DC,
Does anyone not realize that the nasty tactics Hillary is using on Obama will be fine-tuned to use on anyone who goes against her--including on the American public if we don't agree with her mandates? People are who they are. Does anyone not see the personality types we've come to value as normal?
Karen, Indianapolis ,
The thought of your proposal being acted out gives me the shivers. Obama has based his campaign on getting rid of the Old Gang and their evil machinations. How could he retain the enthusiastic supporters who are looking for Change if he has the Clintons as his backup?
David Roberts, Vancouver, Canada
This is my absolute nightmare ticket and I am not part of Obama Nation, although I currently support Obama after both Edwards and Richardson withdrew. This could cause me to write in someone else entirely on the ballot -- say Gore/Edwards, etc. It's time for the Clintons to go!
JAT, Austin, USA
HEADLINE: THE WHITE CONSERVATIVE VOTE FOR HRC IS OVERALL RACIALLY MOTIVATED AND THUS MCCAIN BENEFITS FROM A FUSION TICKET. Period.
The headline is my suggestion, but Mr. Sullivan is being a bit optimistic (and that's not necessarily a bad thing.)
C.A. Blount, Indianapolis, USA
Andrew - You make some excellent points, but alas, I think you've gone too far. Secy of Education, maybe - for which she claims to be the champion of the world anyway? No can be VP - remember what happened to Lincoln and Kennedy... no one could trust Hillary to be the Vice President of the US.
Anna, Chicago, IL, USA
what i like is andrew's headline: the hate-filled ticket. isn't that enough to see how horrible this would be? i think he has seen the writing on the wall even before he made his - i will admit - commentary about this democratic ticket.
someone asked: who is going to be obama's food taster?
carole a. edwards, New York, usa
Andrew, no credible candidate for the presidency can afford to
have a running mate whose loyalty is suspect. Who, that has ob-
served this contest the last several months, would dare to as-
sume that Sen Clinton could ever be loyal to an Obama admini-
stration?
lawrence walker, Austin, united States of America
Just read Rod Liddle's table talk and wanted to say it was laugh out funny & hugely entertaining. Never been to Marlborough, never going to go but loved reading the piece all the same. Brilliant! Thanks for brightening my slightly grey bank holiday.
Gabby Dow, Manchester,
You're conclusion is absolutely wrong regarding my Senator Jim Webb. He in fact is the exact person at this point in history who would bring all those blue collar, redneck democrats & independents to support Obama in November. Obama will offer the VP slot to Webb, first. But will Jim Webb accept it?
Tony Mski, Fredericksburg, VA, USA
"What is so unnerving about a strong WOMAN coming back and taking the nomination?" Absolutely nothing. If we were talking about a person of high character and integrity it would be wonderful. But this is Hillary - her baggage is incredible. One of the most despicable politicians of our time.
wayne, seattle,
The problem with Hillary as VP is that Bill comes with her and we have seen how his obvious obsession with an imaginary third term has lead him to act in ways that have at times hurt his wife's candidacy. I think he would be a disaster for an Obama-Clinton Ticket.
David Roberts, Atlanta, GA, USA
i like andrew's headline: hate-filled dream ticket. that says it all even as he makes a fine attempt to condone this ticket.
do not do this obama. as someone asked: who is going to be obama's food taster? i see a very viable woman vp and also richardson is a good candidate for vp.
manny black, New York, usa
Some of us would like the candidate with experience over the candidate with slogans and hot air.
Obama's campaign has been dirty yet you blinded fans overlook it. Calling the Clintons racists when all their lives they have fought against it. And his racist church. He's a hypocrite.
Kiki, Mount Airy NC, USA
Hillary has too much pride to play second banana to Obama. I wouldn't want her to undermind her strength by taking a lowly position, especially if it may be preceived as benefiting someone other than herself---in boosting Obama's electibility. I am still hoping for a superdelegate slide to Clinton
Joseph R Enser, Buffalo, NY, USA
This is no time to go wobbly, Andrew!
Daniel Chambers, Chicago, USA
It might be to Obama's advantage to be partnered with the Clintons in the general election. They could be used as his attack dogs against McCain, while he can take the more civilized road.
Yoav, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
The contest isn't over! With the popular vote in her favor, I don't understand how you can count Hillary out?! She is doing well in polls in Indiana and North Carolina. Why can't you give credit where credit is due?What is so unnerving about a strong WOMAN coming back and taking the nomination?
Jake Rodriguez, San Francisco, USA
Reaching back in American History - Andrew Jackson aka Senator Obama and John Calhoun aka Senator Clinton!
Regardless - there is resiliency to the American Republic- and we have and will continue to survive!
David McCann, Akron Ohio, USA
Why open that can of worms? Bill Richardson would bring none of the negative and a lot of wonderful assests to Obama's campaign.
Duke Klassen, MINNEAPOLIS, USA
Andrew, are you hoping Hillary's magic wands will pre-empt Obama's skeletons-to-come? After all, BHO's Kenya debacle hasn't surfaced yet, and a few other messes that you can google.
Adam, Bethesda, USA
Obama could place Clinton on the ticket and then, once elected, push her under the bus by nominating her to the first Supreme Court opening.
Barry, Elmwood Park, USA
Obama-Clinton. That's the ticket. We go from a disfunctional Clinton marriage to a disfunctional ticket, a ménage à trois including Bill, and throw in that combative Michelle Obama for good measure. As a Republican, I see that as my Dream Ticket. McCain couldn't lose.
Gene Simon, Williamsville, USA
Putting Clinton on the ticket is going to "bring more conservative... voters into his camp?" Listen to what you're saying.
Michelle, VA,
If Obama is not chosen the nominee, there will be a terrible backlash? LOL
And what about Clinton supporters? Do you really think that we are going to vote for that wimp and the fanatics that support him? NO WAY. Obama, get ready for the backlash too!!!
Steve Austin, St. Louis, MO, USA
Clinton is too polarizing. Anyplace on the ticket will bring it down. Just say "No" to HRC.
Daniel Chambers, Chicago, USA
Like most Obama supporters, I have been sickened by the Clinton's behavior that has destroyed my respect for them
But we MUST win in Nov, and if Clinton as VP is the price, so be it. Their policies really are similar, unlike their characters.
My only fear is assassination.
Susan, Twentynine Palms, CA
Gov. Kathleen Sebelius, KA, ticks every single box for putting Clinton on the ticket, and then some.
Ciaran, Dublin,
Why doesn't Andrew Sullivan stand for Parliament in the UK...............he could 'walk it' with his razor-like intellect (not that he'd have to stretch himself MUCH to beat that which is currently on offer) & the only 'down side' ~ the poisoned chalice of UK politicking ~ would benefit UK voters!!!
Richard Neville, Helston, Cornwall UK
Even if Obama's goal is to sure of blue-collar dems, Clinton isn't the only option. Whereas Obama's appeal to his voting block is fairly unique, I think Clinton's appeal is replacable. Couldn't John Edwards, as well as many others, be just as well positioned to pick up the downscale democrats.
Peter, Brooklyn, NY,
Two problems with an Obama-Clinton ticket.
1) Clinton could be president in 2016
2) She is vice-president... why do we have vice-presidents? So they can become the president if the worst case scenario happens, meaning she is one unfortunate event away from being the commander-in-chief...
Rick , Atlanta, USA
An Obama-Clinton ticket might well unify the Democratic Party...but to win the general election Obama must reach BEYOND the party. Jim Webb is the man to help him do that. I'm confident that the job of unifying the Democratic Party can be left to John McCain.
M Mitchell, Athens GA, usa
Absolutely not. This country needs a clean break from the Clinton's' style of politics. It does not need to rewarded with a vp position.
ej, texas,
So Obama according the Sullivan is NOT a politician- but instead has to ACT like a politician to get elected?!! We have always known Sullivan cares more about his gay rights than any moral rationality- but does he not realize how utterly buffoonish he is praising Obama as the non-politician unifier?
JAF, Rockville, USA
If a person was of good health, would he voluntarily agree to participate in a medical study in which cancer cells were implanted in his body? In my opinion, that is exactly what incorporating Hillary Clinton into his campaign, and potentially his administration, would do. It would be senseless.
Ken B., Farragut, TN,
At one point early in the primary, I felt strongly positive about an Obama-Clinton ticket. And you're right - it makes sense on numerous levels. However, with all the bad blood that's been spilled, the unity the ticket might create has been tainted. The Oval Office will play out as its own war zone.
SirgeMan, NYC,
As hilariously pointed out in My Big Fat Greek Wedding ("there is a hole in the cake"), the big logical hole in an Obama-Clinton ticket is that Obama's lifespan is in serious jeopardy of being cut short. The Clintons desperately want the presidency. An Obama-Clinton term will become a Clinton term.
bob, In,
Clinton as VP on the Democratic side would be like having Cheney as VP on the Republican side. And we know how the latter turned out. Granted Obama is no Bush, but she will sabotage his plans from the inside and will try to push her agenda every step of the way. Obama-Clinton is non-sequitur.
bob, In,
If Hillary is on the ticket with Obama, I will not vote for that ticket even though I am going to vote for him if he is the nominee (and he will be). I despise the clinton's and now they are proving to me why I despised them from the beginning. I feel very vindicated that thier depravity shows.
A Hamilton, Los Angeles, US
This analysis, as well-reasoned as it is, seems to omit a key consideration: why would the Obama campaign even entertain an old paradigm when BHO's whole raison d'etre is transcendence? How is he "a different kind of leader" if he's using the same game plan and rule book?
Kairos, Dallas TX, USA
If Hillary were VP, I would worry for Obama’s life. She is NOT entitled to the presidency! And do we really want another dynasty? Look where that got us the last time!! Also, let’s face it folks, there are simply too many people in this country who'd never vote for HRC b/c of who she is.
Rox, Brooklyn, NY,
Andrew, with all due respect - there is no way this should happen. Obama and Clinton are not even on the same political page. The thought of it makes me literally want to reguritate. I have my suspicions on why JFK was murdered. Come on, do you REALLY think anyone would trust the Clintons? I won't
DoveSong, American in, France
I rarely agree with you, but I agree on this one. Finally some sense from Andrew Sullivan.
John, Salem,
Since I am an Indy, I could care less about the dem party. What about the country?? I would not lose any sleep over the extinction of the dems or repubs. I ask again, what about the country??
A Hamilton, Los Angeles, US
Obama-Clinton ticket??? Absolutely, unequivocally no!!! Obama deserves to move America forward, and he would not be able to do so with the excess baggage of the Hildabeast as an albatross. It's best for Obama to make it a clean cut and choose someone like Sam Nunn or even Bayh at VP.
Melissa, Houston, USA
Having Clinton in the VP slot would leave Obama open to her undermining of his policies behind the scenes--all that back room dealing that goes on in Washington. There's only one thing for her: give her a seat on the Supreme Court to get her out of politics. Worst case: Secretary of State.
Sandy, London, UK
Barack Obama will be our next president without Hillary; and he will be our best president since Jefferson exactly because he will NOT compromise his principles.
Barack Obama will unite the world. I hate to be negative, but the Obliterator will only serve to divide the world.
Paul Bailey, Magnolia, AR, USA
As much as I did not like the idea at the outset, it strangely makes sense, and Barack should at least make the offer to Hillary. I bet she'll decline it though, for obvious reasons.
I agree with you that at least Barack can then say that he made an attempt nonetheless.
Albert W., Dundee, UK
At this moment in time, it does appear that your proposition deserves consideration. But we've learned during this campaign that such moments come and then they go. If Obama is ultimately forced to embrace Clinton, then the obvious next question is: Who will be named as Obama's food taster?
Nancy, Illinois, USA
Hillary as Vice President would guarantee that a "Vince Foster" would happen to Obama.
Obama would be extremely foolish to accept a position with Lady Macbeth.
brad , beijing, china
NO that is not a "dream ticket" I want to happen. Let Obama pick his own Vice. He doesn't need both Hillary and Bill in there with him. I don't think I could bring myself to even vote for that ticket.
Judi, Irvine, USA
I have reluctantly come to the same conclusion. It is obvious that John McSame is going to sink to gutteral politics despite his pledge to not engage in smear. Obama is going to need a fighter in his corner. Why not Hillary. I despise her brand of politics, but it may be a necessary evil.
maxx, Northfield, US
Bad analysis. Terrible idea. Hillary Clinton is too talented to be anybody's running mate. She deserves the nomination in her own right. If she doesn't get it; McCain will prevail in November and she can resume her Senate career until 2012; then run again.
Marika, Los Angeles, USA
No party has kept the White House during a recession.
Whoever wins this nomination will win the presidency.
If Obama needs to balance, then a HRC surrogate for VP will do. Not HRC.
The Dems will win this year -- no need to hobble their ability to be effective once in.
Michael Brennan, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
obama is also dishonest... he wavers from one line: wright is like his uncle... and then outwardly distances himself when it was convenient to....so if anyone thinks obama is innocent and different fr any other politician, they must be really naive.
sue, atlanta, usa
I think Obama should offer Clinton a different job. Secretary of State springs to mind. Then make it publicly known that she would have real power in his cabinet. This might also be more appealing to Clinton, since I suspect that the Vice Presidency in an Obama administration would be powerless.
Doug Simpson, New York City, USA
Somebody said recently that if this scenario happened Obama would need a food taster! As a 53 yr old white woman Obama supporter I think this would be madness. The Clinton Soap Opera would continue - the media constantly focussing on what she and Bill were doing to undermine Obama.
mac, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
The question - if offered will she take it? Next, with Bill showing signs of heart by-pass induced dementia, what to do with him to keep him out of the WH and his mouth controlled. And finally if she does take it will she try and be a co-president, can she play second chair?
JSFox, Peterborough, USA
No !!! A partial change for America? NO!!
She is too dishonest to be on Senator Obama's ticket.
This is America and there should NOT be a DyNASTY
Jolana, Texas, USA
Obama's communication skills are comparable to Lincoln's. The Lincoln administration was an over whelming success in a time of peril. Obama's intelligence and his innate political skills will get him the democratic nomination. Hillary Clinton would be a first step for his own "Team Of Rivals".
Brent Houston, Seattle, USA
I think I'm seeing the Oxbridge debating tradition in action here: making the best possible case for a totally unsupportable proposition. What a great way to cause some of us conservative Republican to abandon Obama!
wj, Danville, CA, USA
A Clinton/Obama (in whichever order your prefer) would combine the negatives of both into one unelectable mess. I hope they go for it.
Craig, Buffalo, USA
It's an intriguing idea, if also somewhat repugnant. But it's greatest weakness is not considering what it would be like for Obama to try to govern with the Clintons on his flanks. I wouldn't wish this on any president, particularly one with as much promise as Obama. And he can win without her.
Farnum Brown, Durham, NC, USA
I have been supporting an Obama presidency since 2004 and was a Clinton supporter for 20 years. I have been actively volunteering for Obama since Feb. but was a supporter before Iowa. To make a long story short, I will NEVER, repeat NEVER vote for a Clinton any Clinton to reside in OUR White House.
Diane, Durham, USA
While this may sound plausible in the current political system, it is not feasible in the new political system. While the intent would be to unite the Democratic party, this would actually divide our country even more. Clinton has proven her toxicity and her inability to let go of her egocentric way
KBRO, Heathrow, USA
This is a terrible idea. Obama's appeal is also to independents and republicans. Do you think we will be able to attract them with her on the ticket? I don't.
Have you forgotten that putting her on the ticket would also put all of her and Bill's scandals on the ticket? It would be a nightmare
Tammy Sawyer, Maryland, USA
This is a good article but it overlooks the influence of Slick Willy. Obama would lose, mostly because he is black, a probability supported by his thin resume, and his friend Rev. Wright. Many blacks believe that this election is owed to them. This could come down to a left, center, right contest.
Don Cheatham, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
The time to consider such an entente as proposed has long passed. Ms. Clinton's scorched earth policy and her inability to move the voters away from Mr. Obama on policy issues, have killed such a prospect, if it ever existed in the first place. As for Mr. Obama, as events have shown he's no Lincoln.
Graham H., Toronto, Canada
Lincoln, with his team of rivals, was assassinated. JFK, with teammate Johnson, was assassinated. There is nothing new under the sun! And Obama is no fool to court this disaster in waiting! There are many others who would make a credible vote-attracting VP. HILLARY CLINTON JUST ISN'T THE ONE!
Jimmy C, Letchworth Garden City, UK
Excellent idea. But, would the white voters beholden to white supramacy and the pride in the dynasty Clintons have built, let them do it?
Munir Ahmed, Karachi, Pakistan
WHAT would hold him back? How about every negative and handicap that come w/the Clintons. Or the fact the Clintons are so toxic that Obama inviting them back to the whitehouse would completely neutralize and invalidate his message. Clintons are the problem w/politics. I won't vote for that combo.
Avant Strangel, Boston, United States
Andrew, I just want to make on point. As a black 57 year old women I would love to see Barack become president in January. Even knowing what it would mean for my tribe, even with Barack at the head of the ticket, I would not, could not and will not vote for Hillary. And I'm not alone.
Priscilla, Brooklyn, USA
interesting....but amidst all these talks, mr sullivan seems to forget the one very important person in this equation: HRC herself. can anyone imagine her being willing to take up the post of vice president and give up her ambition to be president once and for all??
j j fong, london, uk
Now that BHO is tanking, you want the little woman to come in and shore him up. Sorry. You miss the fourth reason for HRC's run: she's loyal Dem and wants to save them from a debacle. When Obama falls on his bum in Nov. and crawls back to the Senate, she'll be the majority leader.
Jason, Columbus, Ohio
Hillary has won the votes of many people one would alienate at one's peril. Obama could lose in November if he loses Clinton supporters. There are strong feelings regarding both gender and race "firsts". Either of them would be foolish not to choose the other. november is what matters.
Zahava, Toronto,
Would you want someone you loved to be the only person standing between (stop at nothing) Hillary and her ambition to be President? I think Obama can choose a nice, older and decent, established running mate, and it will be a lot safer for him. In so many ways.
Lynn, MINNEAPOLIS,, USA
Spot on. She would whip any potential Republican VP in debate - some thing Edwards failed miserably to do in 2004.
Bill, Atlanta, USA
Think this is a plausible idea, but who's going to watch Obama's back?
I know, horrible thing to say but...who's going to watch his back?!?
Aagree with your Team of Rivals analogy, it would be a Lincolnesque move.
Big Obama supporter and volunteer, I could learn to wrap my arms around this.
Katthry MacDonald, Ossining, USA
Wow! Except for Sameul, all the comments are from the U.S. in this British newspaper.
Only way Obama-Clinton works is if Bill is posted to Russia or outer Mongolia. Alternatively, he could be the man to clean up New Orleans.
Bunker Hill, Spearfish, U.S.
Absolutely NO Andrew.The whole point of Obama's campaign is to change politics as practised in the US, to get away from 'realpolitik' and towards a new bipartisan politics of hope and change.Better he appoint Me Cain as Sec. of State than have Hillary on the ticket.
Pierce Acheson, Waterford, Ireland
Speaking as an Obamite, Democrat, and a feminist person who dislikes both the Clintons, I love your scenario! Thanks, brother! Bravo!
Antonia, Brooklyn, NY, USA
You forgot the biggest obstacle--they will not get elected. Democrats can hardly stand the idea. This would be all the Republicans need to get fired up. They hate Hillary.
Jesse, New York,
Obama has many 1st time supporters to his presidential campaign. We are joining Obama in his call for change not joining in to the old democratic party represented by Bill & Hillary. If the party is smart it will join Obama in change if not it may just be 4 more yrs of republican rule.
Dan, Seattle, USA
I really believe that the Obama-Clinton ticket is the most realistic and only possible way that Obama can win the presidency. I really hope this happens, even though I have been upset at Senator Clinton. As a lifelong Democrat, this is politics, but it is necessary for a victory in November.
Tallman Boyd, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
If Obama takes Hillary as VP, he'll be lending credibility to a politics whose time has passed. Obama's campaign is about offering a fresh, wholly Hopeful approach to leadership and to life in the USA. Bringing a Clinton along for the ride only soils that message. Poitics need not be a streetfight.
Hobart, atlanta, usa
Not the VP slot, Andrew; but rather what you have floated numerous times before: a SCOTUS nomination. This way, Hillary gets to be an unassailable, lifetime power (and perhaps a swing liberal vote) on the pressing legal issues of the day: torture, abortion, voting rights, civil rights, etc.
Jimmy, New Orleans, US
Clinton is radioactive. She only appears to be a viable candidate because she has nothing to lose and HE is the One. Keep in mind the GOP hate machine needs a cause to motivate their base, Obama doesn't give them much to attack. Hillary is evil incarnate to the GOP and would bring them out in droves. Obama doesn't need her either. Her vote is the simple folk Dems. They'll support Obama when this is finished. And the time is quickly approaching.
Kurt, De Kalb, USA
Great idea, let's just put the person who the Republicans want to run against and the person who has alienated half of the Democratic party on the same ticket as the person who wants to change Washington. If we wanted Hillary, we would have voted for Hillary. This is not a ticket I could vote for.
Delinda, Starkville, MS
Good luck.
John, Billings,
I'm a Republican who is considering voting for Obama in November should he be the nominee. If Hillary were on the ticket with him, there'd be no way I could vote for that ticket. I suspect the same is true for other wayward Republicans and true independents. Webb is the way to go for Obama.
Charles V., New York, USA
Nice try. After excoriating Hillary, you now look to her for a life line. Hillary is not the source of Obama's troubles and she should not be tapped to solve them. Obama promised to transcend racial divisions and he has instead exacerbated them. Whites are now voting like blacks- along racial lines
Nancy H, Washington DC, USA
How would he control the Clintons. We don't want another Dick Cheney who usurped far too much power. It seems to me that with Cheney as a precedent that Hillary would certainly try to do that and dare President Obama to do anything about it. And how to control Bill and his lobbying efforts?
karela, Hastings,, MI, USA
Ever hear the story of the boy and the poisonous snake?
Adding a ruthless political operative whose lifelong dream has been to ascend to the presidency as your veep doesn't seem the wisest move. Kennedy/Johnson indeed.
bob roberts, Countrytown,
Obama just can't get a break. Out of all the hackneyed media narratives I have had to endure this week, this one is by far the most depressing. the two have clear idealogical differences that would result in a stalemate power struggle. Obama can choose his own VP thank you very much.
jenn, Atlanta,
I commend Andrew for his openmindedness and compelling argument. I'd support the notion if it weren't for this bile stuck in my throat however. Surely there is a better option!
jcriswell, Lexington, USA
The surest way for the Democrats to lose the presidency is to run an Obama/Clinton ticket, thus disenfranchising the white male.
Paul Deering, Rochester, US
Please no. This would significantly dampen if not end my donations of time and money to the Obama campaign. The Clintons should not be rewarded for the divisive campaign they have waged, nor should the country be punished by the need to assuage their egos.
sarah, towson, maryland
McCain will choose a woman gov as his running mate. At least that's what his team is scrambling to find.
Richard, Cambridge, Canada
Andrew:
No, no, a thousand times no -
This is wrong for so many reasons its impossible to list them all. To be totally practical the simple fact is that adding the HillBill team to the ticket cost Obama lots and gains him nothing. This is a winner take all event and Billary ain't into #2.
Mike Folsom, Albuquerque, USA
Not only am I voting for Obama, I am voting against HIllary, against her tactics, her cynicism & lack of imagination, and her way of doing business in Washington. As for demographics, I'm a 40-year-old white woman -- and I know MANY people who will resent like hell that ticket. Hillary made her bed.
CLH, Northern California, US
Why would she want to be Vice President again when she kind of already was VP under Bill. Now she just gets the formal title. Her policies and statements would have to be aligned with Obama's and I'm not sure she will go for that.
David Berg, San Diego, US
Unfortunately, there's nothing to be done but wait to see if Clinton makes this move.
Eric, New York,
Obama has been refreshingly successful doing things his way and I look forward to him further defining himself via his running mate.
Your suggestion reminds me of a parent who, dismayed by their tantruming child, resorts to rewarding the tantrum, thereby creating greater problems in the future
peg quinn, santa barbara,
I understand your reasoning and agree with the reasoning but, I think the clinton's in the VP slot could cause an Obama presidency no end of trouble. As VP she would have more clout with her own faction of allies in the Senate and House to attempt to derail any agenda that she does not agree with.
A Hamilton, Los Angeles, US
So many Democrats have been saying this or the reverse, (Clinton-Obama) since before the Iowa caucuses. Sullivan has always vehemently resisted. Why the change now?
Huntington W. Sharp, San Francisco, United States
This is an idea that wold be a quick fix to an immediate problem - how to get Hillary to face the reality of her defeat - but would cause far more problems than it solved in the long run. She has been a uniquely destructive force in the campaign, and would be the same in an Obama administration.
Stephen, Manchester, CT, USA
You overstate the positives and underestimate the negatives.
"The biggest problem, of course, is Bill." No. The biggest problem is Hillary and Bill. They are both meddlers and would undermine Barack's ability to lead. They are not uniters, but fighters and those management styles cannot coexists.
steve sarovich, Naperville, USA
The Vice President also serves as President of the Senate. She would have an office on Capitol Hill, and could become an effective asset in getting legislation passed -- a super-whip, as it were (no jokes, please). I have no doubt she'd do well in that capacity.
Andy, Galveston, Texas
I think the substantial points of your argument are equally satisfied if he makes her a cabinet-level Health Care Czar.
As a plus, it neuters Bill's influence. And should Barak get elected, I don't think anyone in the administration's going to want to hear much from Bill at this point, anyway.
Kevin Daugherty, Austin,
This is a lovely pipedream, Andrew. There is far too much risk involved for Obama to lash himself to the Clinton psychodrama. Welcoming that tired old mess inside his administration would undercut his entire message. It may well win him the office but would damn him every day of his term.
Carl Granieri, Philadelphia, United States
Andrew, I hesitate to say that you have completely lost your mind because this is so well thought out. Except that is misses the entire point of Obama's campaign.
If they sabotage his presidential campaign without relent imagine what they would do to his presidency.
Shaking my head
Craig , New England,
As a Michiganer, it seems that all the staged cat fights between Obama and Clinton have been merely over who gets the top billing. Never been a doubt both will be on the ticket this fall....
D. Hans, Standish, Michigan
You're right. It would be a dream if Obama would invite Hillary as VP. Having a white woman on the ticket could possibly appeal to whites who don't want to vote for a black man but want to stay democratic. It all sounds so difficult to some but then again it seems elementary to me.
Nikki Parker Morgan, Burbank California, USA
It makes sense; the question is whether Hillary would work to enhance his presidency. Not to mention Bill. Also one wonders if her future is as Senate majority leader. Of course, the cooperation issue would remain in either case. Obama is inclusive enough to handle it, and to listen to her. Is she?
Sidney Schwab, Everett, USA
This proposal is reminiscent of the old practice of the Jim Crow South; i.e., having the "letter" to travel off the plantation.
I'm disappointed. I thought you, Andrew, were interested in change and transformation. Please think before adding to this media narrative that doesn't serve obama
Mona, Atlanta, US
You didn't address the inevitable fact that if Clinton is on the ticket, this election will become all about personality -- the latest (and oldest) Clinton scandals will be headline news all year. Obama's attempt to place the focus on hopes and dreams (a.k.a. issues) would fail.
Matthew, Midwest, USA
NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Say it ain't so Andrew!
He should pick:
1. Webb -- same position on Iraq, post partisan former Republican, someone who can talk about the poor and honorable scotch-irish
2. Richardson -- Latino, Gov, Western US guy
LM, bethesda, USA
Yes, I don't like it, but I think this is the way to go. As JFK did with LBJ, once in office the VP can be sent to funerals and UN conferences.
McCarthy, New Rochelle, NY, US
NO, NO, NO, NOOOO!!!!
Sorry, I don't have a more intelligible way to say it right now other than a primal scream. It would be a capitulation to the exact kind of politics his campaign is trying to end. And can you imagine Bubba hovering around the outskirts of an Obama presidency? The mind reels.
Lisa, New York,
The biggest challenge to this alliance, which may not be able to be overcome, is that the Clintons practice an effective but toxic style of politics that could quickly erode the spirit of his campaign. This toxicity could be held at bay, but it would take superhuman management skills, even for O.
Jason W, D.C.,
"What would hold him back?" How about his own integrity?
It would destroy everything about him, every reason why millions of Americans have been inspired to stand beside him in this long, hard primary season. He would become just one more politician, doing what politicians do.
No. He. Can't.
Nola Anderson, Manchester , USA
I still think the downsides are even larger than the benefits you list here. Clinton has her own heavy baggage to bring to the party. And her presence on the ticket effectively negates Obama's main message (new style of politics). Better to pick one of her surrogates or another woman.
Maggie, South Bend, USA
I completely understand your point of view. However, it's a terrible idea.
Do you honestly believe that Bill and Hillary would tolerate being anything but # 1?
Or that Hillary the trainwreck (as exemplified by her bungled healthcare legislation & her dysfunctional campaign) can be anything else?
jafields, Bridgewater , US
Also: The Party Leader (Pelosi) has already said No. Does Gore (white male) need to say "No" for "No" to have meaning??
Mona, Atlanta, US
This is the best and most constructed suggestion I've ever heard. Obama's strength will most certainly be seen in his ability and willingness to acknowledge his weakness - refusal to accept Hilary as a running mate. Obama, please accept this political compromise in the party's best interest.
Sameul Dougan, Monrovia, Liberia
You're whistling in the wind, Sullivan. The only way that Obama is electable is if he runs as vice president to Hillary Clinton's president. And he will not do that. So get ready for McCain as the next president of the United States.
Rupert Shaw, London, UK
Mr Sullivan's comments describe the contest concisely from my point of view. Although I would prefer a different vice-presidential candidate from Mrs Clinton, I would gladly vote for Obama Clinton ticket. Mrs Clinton's pandering on the gasoline tax is one of the last straws in my disillusionment.
Calvin C. French, Paso Robles, CA
"Very few people in Washington believe that Barack Obama can now be denied the Democratic nomination. " It's not those in Washington who count - it's those who will be in Denver. The move to Clinton by super-delegates is slowly moving her way and it could be that she will make the offer to Mr Obama.
David Cunard, Los Angeles, United States
There were signs peeping out from under the carpet of Sen. Obama's first speech about Pastor Wright that he may be a closet Socialist and isolationist. Could the USA's ethos survive such a double whammy undamaged?
JVC, Berkhamsted, UK
They say keep your friends close and your enemies closer. That is the only justification I can think of for Hillary being Veep. And I don't think that is justification enough. I want her to try to hold on to her senate seat and I want Bloomberg to do everything in his power to take it from her.
Agatha X, Norfolk,
The problem, Andrew, is that you're thinking of the election and not the governance. A President Obama, with both Clintons constantly hovering, could never be his own man. The press would be drawn to the Clintons like moths to a flame. The drama would never end. It would be a nightmare.
Mark, Tacoma, WA,
"But the hard reality is that the Democratic party is deeply divided and Webb cannot bring the losing faction with him. "
Too soon to tell about Webb. At this point, he's looking like a very good VP choice. His Navy background clinches it. He'd be better than Hillary at balancing the ticket.
s. danori, atlanta, USA
If Clinton stays in the Senate I think she would have less clout in trying to direct any derailment of Obama Initiatives that she did not like. Of course, this is about maintaining the Clinton legacy.
A Hamilton, Los Angeles, US
NO!
Conrad Zutavern, Dunning, Nebraska, USA
Your column gave me the shivers. The presidents you mention, Kennedy and Lincoln, were assassinated; and their successors (both Johnsons) gave us carpet bombing in Vietnam and carpetbagging in the post-Civil War South. Plus, Andrew Johnson was impeached - - like Mrs. Clinton's husband. Nevermore.
Steve Smith, Spring Lake, Michigan, U.S.