Can Clinton Become Vice President?

At this point, both the media and the general public are coming to the conclusion that Clinton simply doesn't have a chance of winning the Democratic nomination in this election. So far, however, Clinton does not agree, and continues to campaign, even to the extent that she's pouring some of her own money into the pot (which did not do Romney much good in the end). Her much touted presumptive win in West Virginia will prove of little consequence in this race. However, some have theorized that her stubbornness arises from an intent of Clinton's to find firm ground in the race and force Obama to accept her as running mate. This strategy, they theorize, is also designed to make her nominee apparent in the next election. Still, despite the obvious benefits of this plan and the potential that she might be able to gain that firm footing, one must wonder whether Obama will actually accept her as his running mate.

Now, it is true that strong emotions rarely appeal in the long run to the moderate majority. As such, it is highly unlikely that Obama will refuse her request - should she make it - based on hurt feelings alone from her negative attacks. Instead, it is likely that he will examine the pros and cons to such a decision and come to a rational choice. for instance, a recent Gallup poll showed that 55% of Democratic voters were in favor of seeing Clinton become vice president. What may be obscured by the generalities of the press is that 55% is by no means an overwhelming majority. It means even less when one considers that most of those votes came from Clinton supporters who are losing heart and are now willing to see her in a lesser post.

When considering whether Clinton would be an asset or a liability, one must consider a variety of different things. For instance, Clinton is incredibly well known, unlike many running mates, and her public policy ideas complement his quite well, presenting a slightly more moderate view in some avenues and more liberal in others. However, there's also the fact that she's known to have been somewhat negative towards Obama on the campaign trail, which means that should she become his running mate she might be regarded as a flip-flopper. Not to mention the fact that her husband may prove to be a nuisance.

Because of these various assets and liabilities, along with the less than united poll outcome, it is uncertain at this point whether Clinton has any chance of becoming vice president. For now, she enjoys the fact that she's the only real choice for running mate, and as such the polls will likely remain in her favor as far as whether Democratic voters think she should be Obama's running mate; however, should Obama mention another possible candidate for the position, her fame might be eclipsed by some less controversial figure.