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.

He said he wants someone he gets along with who would be capable of assuming the presidency.

With 19 years in the Senate, Mr Kerry may look outside Washington to governors such as Iowa's Tom Vilsack, Virginia's Mark Warner or Arizona's Janet Napolitano.

An industrial state governor who can relate to the common man, such as Pennsylvania's Ed Rendell, could help offset Mr Kerry's reputation for aloofness.

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson could make excitement as the first Hispanic on a major party ticket. He may look to a former rival with a built-in, fund raising network.

John Edwards, Dick Gephardt and General Wesley Clark all endorsed Kerry when they exited the race. Before Mr Clark became a candidate, Mr Kerry advisers said a ticket with the two decorated Vietnam veterans could be a powerful force with a nation at war.

New York Senator Hillary Clinton has said she intends to complete her term in 2006, but has not ruled out running for president in 2008.

If Mr Kerry is positioned to win this year, Ms Clinton may find the ticket too attractive to pass up if asked.