The Most Overrated VP Traits

Money, ties less important than discretion, trustworthiness
Posted Jun 10, 2008 1:25 PM CDT
The Most Overrated VP Traits
Should Democratic presidential candidate, Sen. Barack Obama, want to select a woman as his choice for vice president, his former rival, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton is not the only choice.    (AP Photo)

Fed up with a focus on local ties and attractiveness in vice presidential selection coverage, Mark Halperin of Time lists the qualifications most under- and -overvalued by the media. Among other things, don't overlook:

  • A candidate ready to be president from Day One.
  • A candidate trusted and liked by the nominee.
  • A candidate trusted and liked by the nominee's wife.

And worry less about:

  • A candidate seen as able to win a particular state.
  • A candidate seen as able to win over a particular group of voters.
  • A strong fundraiser.
To see the complete lists of qualities the media weight incorrectly, click the link below. (More vice president stories.)

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