Geeky, well, I'd place the value of a couple terms as governor above the value of being in the US senate for half a term and in the state legislature for a bit. Granted, I think long term senate service would be valid qualification, but if you're choosing between a 8 years running a state vs 6 years as a senator, I think experience as governor is likely more valuable. People will obviously bring up foreign policy, but a first term senator is not likely to have any grasp of foreign policy yet either...
About Obama...
Running would be extremely stupid. I know he's tempted to cash in his chips now, but he simply won't win in 2008. If I was advising him, I'd tell him to run if he wants, but under no situation should he become a potential VP. Reasons why...
1) If he runs into 2008, he needs to win. He won't, so he shouldnt. Getting his feet wet now is not a bad idea, but unless something happens and gives him a real shot at winning in 2008, he needs to drop out when the going gets serious.
2) He can't be a VP. Hillary won't win. Unless he signs on with Evan Bayh or someone like that (who would actually have a chance to win), he'll be putting himself in a terrible situation. Look at Edwards in 2004. He was a golden boy, but once he signed on w/ Kerry he became an attack dog and things got dirty. I think VP would be fine if he could win, but Hillary won't win and the DNC is too stupid to consider anyone else.
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