Visit the Photo Place

(Fredericksburg) -- Now that John Kerry has picked a former rival, fellow senator John Edwards of North Carolina, as his running mate, the question becomes: How good a choice is he?

Steven Farnsworth, an associate professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington, says the Bush-Cheney campaign can no longer take the South for granted.

"If John Edwards tips North Carolina, and everything else stays the way that it was," Farnsworth says, "Bush's presidency is over."

Farnsworth says Edwards "probably was the best choice," since he brings enthusiasm and campaign experience to the Democratic ticket.

"By nominating a southerner, we may see more attention paid to Virginia then we did four years ago. I think the odds would still favor a Republican in Virginia, (but) the selection of Edwards does suggest Virginia will not be a forgotten state as it was four years ago."

Farnsworth says Edwards is a better choice than Missouri's Richard Gephardt, because Edwards attracted more enthusiasm during the presidential primaries.

Farnsworth calls Edwards "a fresh face" who offers a real contrast to the Bush-Cheney duo.

"By putting Edwards on the ticket," Farnsworth says, "Kerry suggests that he wants to campaign very aggressively on the questions of downsizing and economic problems, so this may be an area that Virginia and nationally are going to see a lot more attention to economic issues than was the case four years ago."

So, who's going to win?

Farnsworth says "all indications are that this is going to be another nail-biter."

"I wouldn't put money on either horse right now."

Read more stories about Fredericksburg
Date published: 7/6/2004

Comments guidelines

1. Be respectful. No personal attacks.
2. Please avoid offensive, vulgar, abusive, hateful or defamatory language.
3. Read and follow THE RULES.
4. We will block violaters and ban repeat offenders.