Bay Area Chews On Kerry's Choice for Running Mate

Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry chose former opponent John Edwards to be his running mate Tuesday-a move that has sparked debate among Bay Area political pundits.

Kerry's choice, although not a surprise to most politicians, has received tremendous support from political analysts and lobby groups.

"I think it is a reasonable strategy," said UC Berkeley political science professor Henry Brady. "By adding Edwards, he is adding an attack dog."

According to Brady, a vice presidential candidate is picked mainly to add qualities the presidential candidate does not have.

"It can help balance," Brady said. "The balance here is (Kerry) isn't that exciting."

Kerry, 60, is known for his long-winded speeches and gruff exterior, which Edwards can counteract with his charismatic charm.

Brady said he believes Edwards, 51, was picked because his "bright, lively, energetic and exciting" demeanor will attract voters.

Edwards' southern origin could draw votes from southern states, which Republican candidates tend to win handily.

In the 2000 presidential election, Republican President George W. Bush won all southern states.

Most Berkeley area liberal groups said they will stand behind Kerry's choice.

"I have faith in him and the campaign staff," said Pamela Bachilla, President of Cal Berkeley Democrats.

Bachilla said Edwards is down-to-earth and "understands Americans at a very real and human level."

Bachilla will further work to support the Kerry-Edwards ticket with the Cal Berkeley Democrats by tabling, participating in debates, and organizing events to encourage Americans to vote, she said. The group is even more excited for the campaign now that Kerry announced Edwards' appointment, she added.

But some on the other end of the political spectrum said they are skeptical of his abilities as a possible vice president.

"I think John Kerry chose a political rookie by Kerry's own account," said Karen Hanretty, Communications Director for the California Republican Party.

Hanretty said Kerry's choice is "an easy way out" and a "sign that his campaign needs to be re-energized."

Edward's lack of political experience raises doubts for some of his critics, which will be troublesome to Kerry's campaign, Hanretty said.

Edwards launched his political career just six years ago as a U.S. Senator for North Carolina. In his tenure, he worked to improve schools, maintain National Defense, and defend the environment.

He ran a campaign against Kerry in the Democratic primary elections beginning last year, but fell short in the March 2 election. At the time, he was very critical of the federal tax system and class-based divisions.

Before entering politics, Edwards worked as a trial lawyer, fighting close-fisted insurance companies.

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