Why Clark Would Accept the VP Slot

[HFishbine]

First of all, throughout his career, Clark was always something other than first in command. He's quite accostomed to, and apparently knows how to be quite effective, in a subordinate role.

Secondly, Clark has never held elective office. Do you think he would really say no to the second highest office in the land as his first elected position?

Think it through. Here are his options:

1) Say no to the VP slot now and face an incumbent democrat for president in 2008, when his national security experience may be less of a factor.

2) Say no to the VP slot now and face Hillary in 2008, when his national security experience may be less of a factor.

3) Say no to the VP slot now and run for governor, senator or house some time in the future.

4) Retire, for good.

5) Accept the VP slot and lose, in which case the above options all remain available to him.

6) Accept the VP slot and win, giving himself the best chance to one day be president.

[mmonk]

1. maybe, maybe not

Gert may have some say. He responded to the draft movement and his concern over the current admin and the country's direction, so maybe. If he thinks he could be more effective not accepting, he won't.

[chimpymustgo]

5. Hoping to see Clark at the top with Edwards. Or vice versa.

Woo hoo!

[Bombtrack]

2. Clark would be another Lloyd Benston for Dean

I.E., do absolutely nothing to nullify the too-big weaknesses of the guy at the top of the ticket. Both regionally, and obviously for national security.

[Mattforclark]

6. Nice map

It may be a bit too optimistic, but it sure looks good to me!

[TrueAmerican]

12. I would put Colorado in the Clark/Graham column

I am more optimistic.

[davidinalameda]

3. I would rather have him not take it

I think that we need a brand new fresh face for the position--I want a woman in the office.

I want the senator from Louisiana--I can't remember her name right off hand.

Let Clark be Defense or Secretary of State or possibly UN Ambassador. He can go run for governor of Arkansas.

There are so many great Democratic women that aren't as polarizing as Hillary. Anyway, if Hillary would be VP, we would lose that senate seat.

I would much rather have a senator from a Democratic state take the spot.

Can't have Kerry--Repuke governor
Edwards--possible
Lieberman, as if but Repuke governor
Graham--much rather see him in the government and then go back and run for Florida governor


but we need a ticket that's going to get people out to vote and have coat-tails.

[Toronto Ron]

4. He will not accept the VP slot

Aside from the fact he stated as much...

I don't think he would be looking toward 2008 (or 2012). I truly believe he wants to be nothing less than president at this unique time, given his credentials. Also, I think he's too significant of a person - part of it is ego, to be sure - to be a second banana. Look at recent VP choices: dick, Lieberman, Gore, Dank Wail, Jack Kemp, Bentsen, Bush I. Far from stellar lot; second-rate types.

In my opinion the only other position Clark might accept is Sec'y of State, which he'd rock at. Not Sec'y of Defense, that's usually given to a civilian type.

[SadEagle]

9. I think you're reading way too much into that statement.

I read it too (in the transcript), and it sounded more like the usual "I can't be VP because I'll win, as I am sure I am the better candidate" thing everyone does to try to project confidence. And I have too much respect for Gen. Clark to think he'll reject a #2 spot on the ticket if there is evidence that that would be the best thing for the country --- which makes me quite surprised to see so many Clark supports say he will do that :shrug:

[depakid]

7. If it comes to pass I believe he'll accept because he's a patriot

and it's absolutely necessary for the wellbeing and perhaps even the survival of America as we know it- or at least as we once knew it.

A Dean & Clark 1 -2 punch would nationalize the election and take back at least the House, along with many state legislatures. BushCo won't stand a chance, which takes all but the most blatant BBV scenarios out of play.

[webkev]

8. I expect Dean to be just as patriotic if Clark is nominated (nt)

[depakid]

10. So do I- and I think he would- n/t

[mrgorth]

11. He will be

don't need to imply otherwise.