Kerry begins quest for running mate

JOHN KERRY, assured of the Democratic nomination, is exploring options for a running mate, from southerners who can provide regional balance to those who can highlight economic problems under President George Bush.

To lead the search process, the Massachusetts senator named Jim Johnson, a Washington Democrat and former aide to Vice-President Walter Mondale.

Mr Kerry says he wants to keep the process private and will "throw names around". Mr Kerry made Al Gore's short list in 2000 but was passed over for Joe Lieberman.