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Campaign 2012 through the eyes of UW faculty and students

Earlier today Taegan Goddard, publisher of Political Wire, tweeted this about Virgina Governor Robert F. McDonnell:

McDonnell backs off support of “invasive” abortion bill. Looking ahead to veep selection process? pwire.at/xajsKe

— Taegan Goddard (@politicalwire) February 22, 2012

In a race for second fiddle, as soon as a semi-known politician backs off a strong position, there is speculation that they are throwing their hat in the ring for Vice President. It’s as if they are all debutantes parading around the ballroom, curtseying as instructed, not a toe out of line, waiting for their national debut.

They’re playing it safe.

I thought the role of  VP was to add balance, energy, and dimension to the presidential ticket.

A little debutant is good. They are supposed to be diplomatic after all. But a little roller derby girl is necessary, too. Let’s not forget, diplomacy is also about tough negotiation.

About the author: Lindsey Meeks is a Doctoral Candidate in the Department of Communication at the University of Washington. Her research focuses on gender, political communication, and news coverage. Prior to returning to graduate school, Lindsey worked in PR and marketing in Austin, TX.

Phone: Phone: n/a | Twitter: @L_Meeks | Email: meekslm@uw.edu