Sanders/Biden 2016?

Sanders/Biden 2016? 

(Originally written for ipinionsyndicate.com 10/8/15)

As I write this, it is becoming more and more certain that Joe Biden will challenge Hillary for the presidential nomination in 2016. Why? He is riding an unprecedented wave of popularity in his term as VP, and wants to take advantage of it. Perfectly understandable.

I still believe that my original prediction is correct, that it will be Hillary and Jeb, when all is said and done. But I think I have a better idea, a more sure way to the presidency for Joe.

I love the man, truly. What many people see as bumbling, I see as honesty. He says what is on his mind, and in that way is very much like Bernie. I also love Bernie, always have, as I have listened to him hundreds of times on the Thom Hartmann Radio Show on satellite.

I am also proud of America, more than usual, as Bernie's popularity has skyrocketed. Once upon a time, being a self-avowed Socialist would be the death knell for a candidate for higher public office in this country. America is listening to him, actually listening, and not just doing the superficial categorization based upon an adjective or two.

So, my idea/suggestion? Sanders/Biden 2016.

A combination of fresh, and tried-and-true. Both with strong ties to politicians on both sides of the aisles, and the proven ability to focus and compromise.

No, the 22nd Amendment is not a bar to a third term as VP for Biden- it only applies to the presidency.

Joe Biden has had way too much tragedy in his life, most recently with his son. It is a certainty that the muted criticism that has already begun over his emotional readiness to run for president again will blossom once he officially declares. Four more years as a wingman, with no further tragedy, will kill that period.

Four more years? Yes. From the viewpoint of a 60-year old, I don't think Bernie will have the energy to run for a second term, and Biden would be the heir-apparent, especially with an unprecedented 12 straight years as VP.

Strategically, there are some issues. Both men are from the Northeast, which is typically not a good political move. Selecting a VP from another part of the country, particularly a swing state, has always been the rule/hope. In this case, though, I believe the appeal of these two men could very well overcome that obstacle, and result in a solid win.

On the other hand, there is certainly a strong appeal to a Sanders/Warren ticket, as well, and strategically it may make even more sense.

Perhaps I will analyze the pros and cons of that next time.

Just some thoughts. I could be totally wrong, of course. It usually happens several times a day.