Kay Bailey

Within the past day or so a new name has been rattled around the OCGM's Presidential Campaign: Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX).

Just two days ago, this blogger essentially guaranteed a VP pick of former Gov. Tom Ridge and I outlined numerous reasons why. At that time Kay Bailey's name hadn't been mentioned. I stand by my original prediction.

This has reminds me of the Democrat from Texas who was vetted to be Obama's running mate, and his name got out late.

I think this is a similar case with Kay Bailey. I'm sure she's seriously been/being considered, but I don't see what she realistically gets McCain of measurable gain.

She is (duh) a woman so she adds some diversity. However, most women would have voted for Big Hill because they had a personal connection. While some were voting for her simply because Hill was a woman, I think those are few and far between.

Texas is already leaning towards OCGM. She wouldn't put any other state into play (she's born and raised in Texas), while Ridge would.

White men would prefer to vote for a white woman over an African American male I would guess.

She would likely build/reinforce/comfort OCGM's Republican base as she is largely a conservative, unlike Ridge (Bailey is not for overturning Roe, but supports serious restrictions). But again, I just think these voters will either come home and turn out to the polls for OCGM or they won't. I don't see Kay Bailey helping that as much as choosing someone like Ridge would play to the moderate, middle-class white male.

Finally, as mentioned earlier, I think this is essentially a leak. But, a purposeful leak. This is an effort to show OCGM is willing to look at a woman for a running mate, and maybe curry votes from women that way.