Biden is Democratic favorite for Obama's No. 2

[Omaha Steve]

Source: Associated Press

By NEDRA PICKLER

CHICAGO (AP) - Sen. Joe Biden has emerged as the clear favorite among Democrats to be Barack Obama's running mate for his understanding of foreign policy in grave global times and his fighting spirit against the rival Republican ticket.

Obama is keeping his decision quiet, but his staff in Chicago and party activists who await a decision are buzzing about Biden in large part because he can address two of Obama's biggest weaknesses - his lack of experience, especially on world affairs, and his reluctance to go on the attack. The speculation among Democrats is less of an indicator of whether Biden will ultimately be Obama's pick, and more of a recognition of the challenges their candidate faces at this pivotal moment in the race.

Obama plans to appear with his newly selected running mate Saturday, with the pick announced via text message to supporters. Obama also is widely thought to be considering Govs. Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas and Tim Kaine of Virginia, and Sen. Evan Bayh of Indiana.


Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del., drives up to his home past the news media Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2008 in Greenville, Del. Biden, Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh and Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine are believed to be on Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's short list. (AP Photo/Bradley C. Bower)


Biden was first elected to represent Delaware in 1972, when Obama was 11 years old and half the people living in the United States today weren't born yet. He is a curious front-runner for running mate for a candidate who won the primary by arguing he would be a fresh outsider who could bring change to Washington.

Read more: http://apnews.excite.com/article/20080820/D92MAKU80.html