Reply #11: No if he wants to run on his own in 2012 [View All]

[question everything]

Or, heavens forbid, in 2008.

The road to the Presidency does not go through the Vice Presidency. In recent history only one V.P. went directly to become a President - papa Bush. And he lasted only one term. The only other V.P. who eventually got elected was Nixon, after being away from Washington for several years and building himself as his own man.

When you are in the shadow of the President, when you are not supposed to be heard, only to smile and be quiet, you cannot, all of a sudden, present yourself as a leader with own bold ideas and innovation. Further, if the administration has been plagued by a scandal - and every one has one - it will stick to you no matter what.

This is why both Mondale and Gore failed.

In 2012 Edwards will be 58, younger than what Kerry is now. If he does not get the nomination this time, let him build on his national exposure some more. We will embrace him next time around.