A name that has been whispered among the many for Barack Obama’s ticket is Nebraska Senator Ben Nelson. Nelson is a moderate Democrat, widely respected among Republicans and members of his own party. Nelson is one of four pro-life Democrats currently in the Senate, and he has shown himself to be an unwavering defender of life. He has been endorsed by both the Nebraska Right to Life PAC and Nebraskans United for Life. If he were to be selected as Obama’s running mate, I would consider voting for Obama this November with the hope that Nelson would not only mitigate Obama’s strong position in favor of legalized abortion, but also bolster the growing presence and effect of Democrats for Life within the party.
Why would Obama select Nelson? It’s a long shot, but the dividends from such a choice are obvious:
- Obama is seeking to snatch a red state or two this election, and Nebraska would fit the bill. He’s already leading McCain in the key swing states of Pennsylvania by 12% (Bob Casey, Jr. would make a fine running mate), Ohio by 6%, and Florida by 4% (Obama did not even campaign here for the primary). Nebraska would only yield 5 electoral votes, however, but its influence could extend to neighboring Kansas, Iowa, and Colorado.
- Nelson currently enjoys a 68% approval rating in his state, which is astounding for a Democrat in Nebraska. An Obama/Nelson ticket could possibly but Nebraska in Obama’s column, though McCain currently leads there by 11%.
- Running with a moderate like Nelson could bring most of the reluctant Hillary Clinton supporters to Obama along with a large constituency of independents.
- In 2006, we saw in Pennsylvania just how formidable a pro-life Democrat can be. Sure, Casey had the name recognition going for him, but he took away the faith and pro-life angle of Rick Santorum leaving the incumbent with little more to attract staunch Catholic voters.
Though there seems to be little chance that Nelson will be tapped for the V.P. slot, anything is possible with a guy who claims “Change.” If Neson were selected, it would not seal the deal for me; considering to vote is not the same as deciding to vote. But like I said, I would definitely give Obama a second look.
Ad-Free & Subscriber Log-In