My initial inclination has always been to think of Jim Webb as someone whose independent "tell it like it is" streak would not make him VP material.

But (and a very big but), if a presidential candidate with primarily domestic policy experience wanted a "strong VP" with a lot of heft on foreign policy and national security issues, it would start to make a lot of sense, particularly given the huge mess the incoming administration is going to inherit in the Persian Gulf (not just Iraq, but the region).

"Jim Webb as the anti-Cheney?"

You heard the meme here first... [grin]

I would think of it as an audition for a more-nationalized roll, although I would caution against assuming that this role must inherrently be a VP slot.  He could just be auditioning for a chance to speak at the Convention next year as the "tough on defense" face of the party.

Frankly, while a lot of people make correct and astute points about the next administration needing insight on foreign affairs and other issues, the next President can decide whether or not to solicit Jim Webb's advice or insight no matter what office he holds; President Bush certainly invites John Warner by to chat from time to time, though it seems he isn't always inclined to listen.  The thing to ask is: what does Jim Webb bring to the table in terms of electoral math or fundraising ability that other potential running mates can't?  In that respect, I can think of better running mates.

Webb is our best hope!

According to Talking Points Memo: "Expect the speech to be widely viewed and analyzed as something of an audition for the vice presidential slot on the national ticket."

Personally, I would prefer Jim Webb and Mark Warner to represent Virginia as Senators for a long time.

Maybe he could serve in both capacities.  :)

Here's what the WashTimes has to say:
http://video1.washin...

Ugh, I just linked to the Times.  I need a shower.

He's the one who needs the National Security experience the most and that is what Webb offers although in an Obama administration he would be in charge of repairing the economic disparity in the US.

I can't see how Webb would be the kind of poodle Hillary would be looking for and based on his past quotes about the Clintons, I don't see how he would be a viable choice for Hillary.  Webb may have made up with Hillary and Bill last year but he did not retract his statements.

Hillary's running mate would be Sen. Evan Bayh because he would help her with Indiana, Iowa and Ohio (rural vote), which she would desparately need.

"Hillary rated as unpopular as illegal immigrants" (in rural America)

Poll: Rural Vote No Longer a Lock for Republicans
http://www.npr.org/t...