A Weak House-ing Market
Two dark horse VP possibilities emerged over the weekend: Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA 07) and Rep. Chet Edwards (D-TX 17). Word leaked that John McCain's camp has begun vetting Cantor, the only Jewish Republican in the House. And House Speaker Nancy Pelosi pushed yesterday on ABC’s “This Week” for Barack Obama to select Edwards, a Dem who has managed to hold onto his seat in GOP country (Edwards' district includes Crawford, TX).
Despite the murmurs, both are longshots. If either manages to emerge triumphant, however, he would find himself in exclusive company. Since the Civil War, seven sitting members of the House (six men and one woman) have run for the VP job directly from their day jobs:
1984: Rep. Geraldine Ferraro (D-NY) – Mondale – Lost
1964: Rep. William E. Miller (R-NY) – Goldwater – Lost
1932: Rep. John Nance Garner (D-TX – FDR - Won
1908: Rep. James S. Sherman (R-NY) – Taft – Won
1892: Rep. Adlai Stevenson (D-IL) – Cleveland – Won
1876: Rep. William A. Wheeler (R-NY) – Hayes – Won
1868: Speaker Schuyler Colfax (R-IN) – Grant – Won
One House member-turned-VP made it all the way, of course. But his path was somewhat unorthodox.
(Hotline's EVAN MCMORRIS-SANTORO)
Jack Kemp could count as well, though he wasn't a sitting House rep. What is it about NY House reps in terms of getting VP?
Edwards cares. He has a good relationship with the military, and veterans. He is also a strong supporter of the 2nd amendment and is considered a moderate. What a great balance!