Dartblog

While the Democrats continue to draw out their nomination battle, Senator John McCain begins the arduous task of choosing a vice president. Senator McCain’s running mate is particularly important because of his age, Washington insider status, and perceived liberal or maverick tendencies. He needs someone of relative youth who seems ready to take on the task of President at a moment’s notice, but who will also shore up the conservative base. The sooner the ticket is declared, the better for the Party as it allows the campaign to adequately prepare McCain’s running mate. His vice presidential candidate must be media savvy, capable, intelligent, experienced, and charismatic, but must also allow McCain to shine.

McCain discussed for the first time his vice presidential search, saying that the campaign has compiled a list of “every name imaginable”- totalling about 20 people. Speculation is high that he’ll look to a governor with executive experience but fewer connections to Washington. Names floating around include two of his former competitors- former governors Mike Huckabee and Mitt Romney- and governors Tim Pawlenty (MN), Charlie Crist (FL), Haley Barbour (MS), Mark Sanford (SC) and Jon Huntsman Jr (UT). If McCain chooses to look outside of government, speculation includes former Director of the Office of Management and Budget Rob Portman, Dartmouth class of 1979. Portman would be Dartmouth’s first vice presidential nominee, though of course Nelson Rockefeller, Dartmouth class of 1930, served as Gerald Ford’s Vice President from 1974 to 1977. Rockefeller is one of the most well known Dartmouth graduates to serve in government, and his legacy endures on campus through the Nelson A. Rockefeller Center.

Calling for greater participation in the military and government, McCain spoke at a pavilion overlooking the football field of the United States Naval Academy. “If you find faults with our country, make it a better one. If you are disappointed with the mistakes of government, join its ranks and work to correct them,” McCain said. Instead of using ultimately meaningless words like “hope” and “change”, McCain is calling for action. While Dartmouth has yet to have an alumnus ascend to the highest office in this country, the expanding size and popularity of the Government Department, in addition to the alumni involved in all levels of government indicates that students are hearing this call. This speech showcased the strength of McCain. When the country was involved in the Vietnam War, McCain served proudly in the United States Navy, including five years as a prisoner of war. Upon returning, he joined the United States government, where he has worked tirelessly for over 20 years. Even when others wanted to give up on the War in Iraq, he pressed forward, supporting the plan for a surge. I disagree with him sometimes- the immigration bill comes to mind immediately- but no one can doubt that McCain is immensely capable and a man who dedicated his life to the service of his country. In my mind, there is nothing more honorable. A Dartmouth student would do well to follow in his footsteps.