Campaign 2000: The Veep Derby: A Minister Tops The Bush List

A vice president is never more important than at the instant of being chosen, because the choice tells you so much about the person who does the picking. When the doors are closed, George W. Bush doesn't have to listen to advice or stroke Republican egos; he can say what he pleases. John McCain? asked a friend. "Gimme a break," said Bush. Ohio Congressman John Kasich, Bush argued, isn't ready for the job. Pro-choice Pennsylvanian Tom Ridge might cost him too many pro-life votes in states where a point or two will make the difference. And it has been clear to...

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