Dole Making Progress In VP Search

RUSSELL, Kansas (July 23) -- Trailed by a campaign camera crew, Bob Dole toured childhood haunts in Russell, Kansas, shooting commercials designed to show voters who he is.

But this candidate's problem is articulating where he's headed and few decisions will be more telling than the vice presidential selection.

"I haven't made any decisions yet, but it's obviously a very important decision. One that I will make in the near future," Dole said. (128K WAV sound)

Sources say the list of number two possibilities remains a work in progress. Having said that, some names surface consistently in the daily churning of leaks and rumors.

Known to have already been contacted to one extent or another -- and seen frequently in Dole's proximity are: Governors Voinovich of Ohio, Engler of Michigan, Edgar of Illinois, Thompson of Wisconsin, and Ridge of Pennsylvania.

It is no coincidence that all five are in power-house, gotta-win, states. Even if they don't get tapped, all are needed to be wholly onboard the Dole train for a victory.

Also mentioned: Former South Carolina governor Carroll Campbell, who is often credited with saving the Dole candidacy with a blockbuster win in the first Southern primary, and Florida Republican Sen. Connie Mack.

Still, one source says not everyone who will be considered has been contacted, another adds not everyone contacted is being seriously considered. Some were contacted out of courtesy and respect.

Translation: Probably only Bob Dole knows who Bob Dole will pick. And he's not saying.

This story originally appeared on CNN's "Inside Politics."

Related Site:

AllPolitics' V-Pick

AllPolitics home page

Dole Making Progress In VP Search

Related Stories:

Related Site: