Upside: As a popular former Pennsylvania governor and Congressman, Ridge would give McCain an inside track in one of the most volatile swing states in the country. Like McCain, he is a decorated Vietnam veteran. As the head of Homeland Security, Ridge would offer security credentials without war controversy. Besides his public service, Ridge is also a successful businessman who runs an advisory firm in Washington, DC. At 62, he’s neither too young, nor too old and his experience at both the state and federal levels more than qualifies him for the job of vice-president. As one of McCain’s senior aides, Ridge is familiar enough with the Arizona Senator’s policies to champion them before a national audience.
Downside: As a pro-choice Republican, Ridge might present McCain with some difficulty in overcoming the social conservatives within the party. Although he is an accomplished two-term governor from Pennsylvania, he is most widely known for his work with the Homeland Security office and for his friendship with George W. Bush. These direct ties to the Bush administration are precisely what McCain is trying to avoid.
GOOD PICK? YES
Downside: As a pro-choice Republican, Ridge might present McCain with some difficulty in overcoming the social conservatives within the party. Although he is an accomplished two-term governor from Pennsylvania, he is most widely known for his work with the Homeland Security office and for his friendship with George W. Bush. These direct ties to the Bush administration are precisely what McCain is trying to avoid.
GOOD PICK? YES