Webb steps out of VP race

Virginia U.S. Sen. Jim Webb Monday took himself out of the vice presidential race.

The freshman lawmaker had been viewed as a strong contender for sharing the Democratic ticket with presumptive party nominee Barack Obama. Webb, who beat incumbent Republican George Allen in 2006 to win his Senate seat, was seen as able to attract the kind of working class small town and rural voters Obama needs to win. A military veteran, he also could have brought national security credentials to the ticket.

Instead, Webb took himself out of the running with a written statement issued by his office.

“Last week I communicated to Senator Obama and his presidential campaign my firm intention to remain in the United States Senate, where I believe I am best equipped to serve the people of Virginia and this country. Under no circumstances will I be a candidate for Vice President," the statement said.

“A year and a half ago, the people of Virginia honored me with election to the U.S. Senate. I entered elective politics because of my commitment to strengthen America’s national security posture, to promote economic fairness, and to increase government accountability. I have worked hard to deliver upon that commitment, and I am convinced that my efforts and talents toward those ends are best served in the Senate.

“In this regard, the bipartisan legislative template we were able to put into effect through 18 months of work in order to enact the new, landmark GI Bill will serve as a prototype for my future endeavors in government. This process, wherein we brought 58 Senators from both parties to the table as co-sponsors, along with more than 300 members of the House, gives me renewed confidence that the Congress can indeed work effectively across party lines and address the concerns of our citizens.

“At this time I am also renewing my commitment to work hard to make sure that Senator Obama wins both Virginia and the presidency this November. He is a man who speaks eloquently about our national goals and calls for the practical solutions that must be put into place to obtain them. I will proudly campaign for him.”

Comments

[Randy T.]

Good news. With the new GI Bill Webb has already done more for our troops than any VP ever could have.

If the Dems fall on their sword in '08 they will need new leadership in '12 . Webb would make a fine presidnet.

imho,
Randy T. USN, Ret.