Bob Novak thinks Bill Nelson may be picked as VP [View All]

[ringmastery]

http://www.townhall.com/columnists/robertnovak/rn20040228.shtml

WASHINGTON -- Democratic strategists are focused on possibly putting a Floridian on the national ticket, but it may not be the most obvious choice, Sen. Bob Graham. This year's vice-presidential nominee could be Graham's junior colleague, Sen. Bill Nelson.

Graham recently announced his availability for the vice presidency, following his short-term bid for president and his announcement that he would not seek a fourth term in the Senate. Graham did not help his reputation with his shaky presidential run, but Sen. John Kerry is believed to be looking for any running mate who would guarantee electoral votes.

The Kerry team could pick either Graham or Nelson, depending on who would do the most for the ticket. Graham, a former governor, is better known in Florida. But first-termer Nelson is a fresher face who might do better around the country. Graham is 67 years old, and Nelson is 61. Their lifetime voting records are rated by the American Conservative Union as 19 percent for Graham and 17 percent for Nelson.