Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.
XXXXX DRUDGE REPORT XXXXX THURSDAY JUNE 29 2000 10:56:07 ET XXXXX
BUSH ZEROS IN ON VP MATE; ACTIVITY FOCUSES ON KEATING
**World Exclusive**
Texas Governor George W. Bush is on the verge of selecting his running mate for the race to take the White House.
Now, the DRUDGE REPORT, which was first to report that Sen. Dole had chosen Jack Kemp in '96 [beating CNN's Bob Novak by 48 hours], can reveal: Okalahoma Governor Frank Keating is Bush's current choice for the slot!
While other names continue to swirl around Bush, Keating has emerged as not only the front-runner, but he is now considered by campaign insiders to be the de facto nominee.
Bush has told his running mate sleuth Dick Cheney that he would "feel most comfortable" with Keating, according to three sources.
[Cheney, on speaker phone, has threatened staffers within an inch of their lives to keep quiet about the activity surrounding Keating and described it as "just part of the process with all the potentials."]
Sources warn that Keating is not a guarantee for vice president, even though there are strong indications that Bush has found his man.
One driving force behind the Keating choice - Bush's wife Laura.
Says one insider: "She thinks he would be not only be an incredible campaigner, but also a loyal vice president."
Bush advisers have tested Keating's "State of the State 2000" address with focus groups of 5-10 people. The response is said to have been off the charts.
"The speech was as powerful a political address as has been given by anyone this cycle," said one insider.
Keating negatives:
*He urged Mr. Bush to answer completely questions about possible past drug use.
*Keating is known for his sharp public comments that have angered teachers, Democrats, fellow Catholics and even his own wife. His solution for dealing with the state teachers union? "Homicide," he quipped. His take on a school shooting at Fort Gibson, Okla.? "A call to arms."
One factor has apparently knocked Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge out of the running: His physical presence!
Ridge is too physically large. Standing next to Bush, he may appear overbearing, says a source.
Bush advisers now believe, based on internal polling data, that Sen. John McCain is not needed to secure independent voters.
Bush may announce his running mate before the Republican convention in Philadelphia to thwart any possible McCain momentum.
"From green country in northeast Oklahoma - the Tall Grass Prairie, to the sparkling granite mesas of southwest Oklahoma - Quartz Mountain, this is a fabulous land," Governor Keating said early this year in a speech. "From the high plains of the northwest - Alabaster Caverns, the highest place in our state - Black Mesa to the ridge-lined, tree-lined wonderment of the southeast, the blue water of Beavers Bend. This is one of God’s natural beauty places."
It may also soon be the home of the new vice presidential candidate.
Properly Formatted:
XXXXX DRUDGE REPORT XXXXX THURSDAY JUNE 29 2000 10:56:07 ET XXXXX
BUSH ZEROS IN ON VP MATE; ACTIVITY FOCUSES ON KEATING
**World Exclusive**
Texas Governor George W. Bush is on the verge of selecting his running mate for the race to take the White House.
Now, the DRUDGE REPORT, which was first to report that Sen. Dole had chosen Jack Kemp in '96 [beating CNN's Bob Novak by 48 hours], can reveal: Okalahoma Governor Frank Keating is Bush's current choice for the slot!
While other names continue to swirl around Bush, Keating has emerged as not only the front-runner, but he is now considered by campaign insiders to be the de facto nominee.
Bush has told his running mate sleuth Dick Cheney that he would "feel most comfortable" with Keating, according to three sources.
[Cheney, on speaker phone, has threatened staffers within an inch of their lives to keep quiet about the activity surrounding Keating and described it as "just part of the process with all the potentials."]
Sources warn that Keating is not a guarantee for vice president, even though there are strong indications that Bush has found his man.
One driving force behind the Keating choice - Bush's wife Laura.
Says one insider: "She thinks he would be not only be an incredible campaigner, but also a loyal vice president."
Bush advisers have tested Keating's "State of the State 2000" address with focus groups of 5-10 people. The response is said to have been off the charts.
"The speech was as powerful a political address as has been given by anyone this cycle," said one insider.
Keating negatives:
*He urged Mr. Bush to answer completely questions about possible past drug use.
*Keating is known for his sharp public comments that have angered teachers, Democrats, fellow Catholics and even his own wife. His solution for dealing with the state teachers union? "Homicide," he quipped. His take on a school shooting at Fort Gibson, Okla.? "A call to arms."
One factor has apparently knocked Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge out of the running: His physical presence!
Ridge is too physically large. Standing next to Bush, he may appear overbearing, says a source.
Bush advisers now believe, based on internal polling data, that Sen. John McCain is not needed to secure independent voters.
Bush may announce his running mate before the Republican convention in Philadelphia to thwart any possible McCain momentum.
"From green country in northeast Oklahoma - the Tall Grass Prairie, to the sparkling granite mesas of southwest Oklahoma - Quartz Mountain, this is a fabulous land," Governor Keating said early this year in a speech. "From the high plains of the northwest - Alabaster Caverns, the highest place in our state - Black Mesa to the ridge-lined, tree-lined wonderment of the southeast, the blue water of Beavers Bend. This is one of God’s natural beauty places."
It may also soon be the home of the new vice presidential candidate.
I feel ill.
Sounds like a good choice to me!
Why?
I hope this is just a trial balloon. We've had enough bad news this week.
Really? I don't think its that bad of a choice. I wanted someone much better, however, Keating beats the pants of Powell, Elizebeth Dole, Whitman, Pataki, Engler, or Ridge. Overall, this shows that the campaign is not being runway by the beltway and New England liberals.
Bush/Keating......I can dig it!
Even though I believe that Keating is a good man, I would think that Bush would choose a candidate from a different region of the country.
If it's a personal bond sort of thing, it's the only reason I can think of why he would stand out. Keating would essentially appeal to the same demographics Bush already solidly owns. Would have expected Engler or Thompson instead. This might also be a smokescreen. Nobody had Quayle going into New Orleans in 1988, if you'll recall.
"Bush advisers have tested Keating's "State of the State 2000" address with focus groups of 5-10 people. The response is said to have been off the charts."
Pro Life, great zest, popular governor, not afraid to dish out the crisp zingers. PERFECT CHOICE!
I also like the fact that he'll be announced PRIOR to the convention to thwart any McCainiacs.
Michael
Don't throw lunch until you've heard the fat lady warble
.
I do too.
Why do you consider this "bad news"?
The Okie conservatives know how to pick 'em....Keating could energize the conservative/Christian vote like nobody's business.
Why do you see this as bad news? Keating is pro-life, Catholic, former FBI man, strong law-and-order, very eloquent and telegenic... What are the negatives?? No geographical balance, but that doesn't matter for much these days. And it certainly exposes as a lie all of the pronouncemnts made here by disruptors that GWB would pick a pro-choice running mate...
Texas and Oklahoma, this is as geographicaly foolish as say...Arkansas and Tennessee. Oops, nevermind.
And they were saying it was gonna be McKeating.
Perfect choice....if true it's absolutly perfect. As far as those that think you pick by regions take a look at Arkansas/Tennesee. Those were the old days.
'His solution for dealing with the state teachers union? "Homicide,"
If that statement didn't win the hearts of conservatives, nothing will....
Well said! LOL.
You know, you are correct. With all the mobility that Americans have now, choosing a good candidate is more important that the fact that he is from a neighboring state. I have now problem with Keating, but with McCain and some others I would have a very difficult time.
I can live with Keating -- he is everything I am looking for - BUT I have to ask this - What does he add to the ticket -- he is from the same region and a small state.
His solution for dealing with the state teachers union? "Homicide," he quipped.
His take on a school shooting at Fort Gibson, Okla.? "A call to arms."
Get ready for a Million Mom Meltdown!
If you want to read more about why Keating would be a good choice go to the article:
Experts say Keating good for Bush ticket posted on 6/26/00
If Gov. Ridge is unsuitable as a running mate because he appears too large physically, wait until you see Dubya alongside his much taller and more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent.
I fear for your health when debate time arrives!
Great songs for the campaign rallies....The Eyes of Texas and Oklahoma.........
Give us the Okie lowdown.
I like him, I'm just sorta surprised I guess. Hey my hubby's family are from Oklahoma, no bad feeling there. There where so many possiblities to pick from from, I'm just surprised.
As long as Keeting is against child killing--he is fine.
I hope you are right Chesty -- I hope you are right.
I personally think Keating is a fantastic candidate but I am really having trouble getting over the Same region, Small state, no name recognition thing. BUT as you said a dynamic Candidate in a mobile world will negate what might be a passe concept of regional candidates.
You're funny.
"and more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent"
Al Gore intellectually gifted? There is a bid difference between faking intellect adn actually possessing it.
Go troll elsewhere with your intellectually gifted - CAN'T REMEBER SH** 85 TIMES IN ONE DEPOSITION - Buffoon.
You guys are running scared. You Democrats were praying that Bush would pick Ridge to split conservative because that is the only way ALBORTION would have gotten elected.
Keep riding the Titanic. It is going down!
Keating negatives: *He urged Mr. Bush to answer completely questions about possible past drug use. *Keating is known for his sharp public comments that have angered teachers, Democrats, fellow Catholics and even his own wife. His solution for dealing with the state teachers union? "Homicide," he quipped. His take on a school shooting at Fort Gibson, Okla.? "A call to arms."
These are negatives? I hope he only gets worse!
"What does he add to the ticket -- he is from the same region and a small state."
He adds law-and-order (former FBI), more of the breezy freshness that Dubya has, he's pro-life but not strident, Catholic, and he takes no guff from anyone. Great sense of humor. He looks good, and he's no taller than Dubya. He will be absolutely loyal to Dubya (he's that kind of guy) and will make a GREAT campaigner and debater. He's good on his feet, and has the sound-byte ability.
VERY solid choice. Good call, there, Laura Bush.
Michael
'...wait until you see Dubya alongside his much taller and more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent.'
We'll have to wait at least four more years for that to happen.
If Gov. Ridge is unsuitable as a running mate because he appears too large physically, wait until you see Dubya alongside his much taller and more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent.
Seeing how Mr. Bradley is not likely to win the nomination we won't have that to worry about ...
Thanks, I will read up on Mr Keating. I'm open. He's pro life? I like him already.
"His solution for dealing with the state
teachers union? "Homicide," he quipped. His take on a school shooting at Fort Gibson, Okla.? "A call to arms."
I like him already.
His only negative is that he comes from that little state to the north of us!
more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent
Thanks for the best laugh I've had all day!!! Can someone please post the photo of this intellectually gifted gunnery sergeant handling his weapon?!!
I can live with Keating -- he is everything I am looking for - BUT I have to ask this - What does he add to the ticket -- he is from the same region and a small state.
After reading on FR for months how Bush was going to abandon conservatives by selecting a pro-abort candidate, run to the center, etc., I am surprised to see all the wailing going on about the possibility that he will pick a solid, pro-life conservative...
Remember, Bush has said all along he will pick someone he likes, who can step in as president if needed, and who agrees with him on core issues. Keating meets all of these criteria. Regional balance is not really a factor nowadays. He can solidiy and energize the conservative base, and is articulate enough to serve as a very effective attack dog against Clinton/Gore (remember, he was one of the first governors to call for Clinton's removal from office.)
Bush's wife, Laura, "thinks he would be not only be an incredible campaigner, but also a loyal vice president."
Translation - He's willing to "put his manhood into a blind trust." What a country, the primary qualification for the job one heartbeat from the presidency is that you have to be a brown-nose. And, I guess we're going to have another term in which the FLOTUS makes the decisions. Wonder how long it'll take (W)obbly to find a suitable intern.
Dubya alongside his much taller and more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent.
How "intellectually gifted" is a man who says "I can't recall" eighty-five times in response to easy questions that even a dunce would have a clear recollection of?
Give the evidence, he's either intellectually bankrupt or he's an inveterate liar. He can't be both. Which poison do you choose?
Hillary's laundry is starting to stink.
MurryMom........take a few more hits off the bong and go crash.
BTTT
If Bush picks this clown he's dumber than I thought he was. The press will crucify him over those jokes, he will attract nobody to the ticket except conservatives who were for Bush anyway, and to top it off, Gov. Keating went to college with Bill Clinton at Georgetown and was buddies with him!
That ought to keep the conspiracy nuts busy for a while.
Looks like Gore for four.
Keep your eyes on the prize!
It sounds like a winning ticket to this Yankee boy...
Reports of Gore's intellect and debating skills are greatly exaggerated.
Speaking of debates, think VP debates. I'm hoping for Keating vs. Maxine Waters...
Loony, Loser, Lib, Liar!
...more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent.
I know you are just a Democrap disruptor, and I normally just ignore you, but this statement doesn't even pass the laugh test.
Perhaps you should go back and re-examine the college records of both candidates. Just a synopsis... Bush got better grades than Gore. Bush received a Masters degree from Harvard; Gore dropped out of graduate school, but won't reveal his grades...
'Gov. Keating went to college with Bill Clinton at Georgetown and was buddies with him!'
I guess we should judge you based on your college buddies....
Is it wishful thinking on four more years of Gore?
Loyalty is an attribute that is dismissed by those that do not possess it. If Bush relies upon his wife for wisdom and counsel then he is in a real marriage. I don't see Laura Bush being involved in the political process in Texas and I haven't heard her state that the American people will be getting a 2 for 1, like Hillary claimed. You, and other Bush Bashers, are just upset because your favorite battle cry (battle lie) of "he's going to pick a pro-choice veep" has been shattered. Now go gather the Brigadiers and come up with a new smeer. (I think Arator has already started the "Waco cover-up/OKC bombing cover-up" nonsense)
"I fear for your health when debate time arrives!"
But it is now known that Gore wore a hearing aid in his debate with Perot.---He was getting help from his team (typical dishonesty).
wait until you see Dubya alongside his much taller and more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent.
I believe you are mistaken on two counts--Lincoln is dead and he is a Republican. You got the taller part right, though.
When do the Sooners play the Longhorns this year?
Can't believe ANY self-respecting Okie would play second-fiddle to a damn TEXAN! (ok, so I was born in Texas,,, I was raised an Okie!)
Someone else posted that Keating went to school with Bill Clinton. That is not automatically damning. But would like someone to research any and all ties between Keating and Clinton both before and after Clinton became ....uh, took up residence in OUR HOUSE.
Then, would like some of the people who have researched the OKC bombing and the aftermath and the effort by the families of victims to get to the truth of that event (civil lawsuit) to post about any and all Keating involvement in same.
"The press will crucify him over those jokes, he will attract nobody to the ticket except conservatives who were for Bush anyway."
The public LIKES those jokes. Let the presstitutes have at it...like they did with the DEATH PENALTY. Keating has a lot of bi-partisan support in Oklahoma - and he broadens the ticket's LIKEABILITY FACTOR, which wins every presidential ticket, according to Common Tator(who thought it up).
Hundreds of people went to Georgetown contemporaneously with Slick. I wouldn't read ANYTHING into that.
Michael
"Intelluctually Gifted" candidate for the dem/socialist?????
When praytell did the dump Algore? and who did they replace him with?
I'm not aware of any "Intelluctually Gifted" Socialist.....errrrr Democrats ;-)
I think it's safe to say that Bush could have picked Jesus Christ himself and you would find a reason to hate the ticket. Am I wrong?
Keating? The man who helped support the government cover-up in the bombing of the Murrah Building? Is Bush out of his mind?
My parents are well acquainted with Frank and Kathy Keating and think very highly of them.
My Dad was extremely firm in his defense of Gov. Keating when I grumbled about the OKC investigation a couple years ago. I would not be averse to this news and remain very hopeful.
I'll let Rivero do the complaining for me on this one, I guess ... =)
Here come the Buchananites and overall nutburgers to protest the possible choice of the Repulican Party. I thought they had their own party?? I've already seen mena,OKCY bombing cover-up, BCCI scandle, S&L stuff.
If true, not a bad choice. Frank Keating is as close to a patrician statesman as there exists in the U.S. these days.
How about that? TWO Pubbie governors from deep in flyover country...to take the reins from two Dem flyover country ex-pats in DEEP DOO-DOO!
Awww man you beat me too the reply!!!!
Mikee would probably focus on that whole Supreme being thing and how Jesus would overshadow Bush. He would also have a problem with that whole is he dead or isn't he thing ;-)
That stuff no longer matters. Really the "favorite son" theory went out with the turning of the TWENTIETH century!
Clinton's from Arkansas, Algore's from the neighboring state of Tennessee. No one was bothered about that in '92.
I don't think Keating is a good choice as running mate for Bush. Not that he isn't a good man, just that he does not give the ticket anything Bush hasn't already got. A vp choice should help the ticket where it's weak either politically or geographically, which Keating doesn't.
I admit to a certain prejudice as well: Oklahoma is where the president of the University said he hoped to build a university of which the football team could be proud. The state is widely perceived (rightly in my opinion having lived there for two years) as a backwater, little more sophisticated than Arkansas. We need a vp of stature, who can be seen as a sophisticated, cosmopolitan conservative.
I went to high school with Gov. Keating and his younger bother was my XO in the Marine Corps, plus I knew his wife in Tulsa who was I believe his high school sweetheart. Even during the 60's in high school you could not find a more honest person of high moral character as Gov. Keating. I wish I could have said the same of myself. He would be an excellent choice. Semper fi!
It could be interesting around the White House during the OU-Texas football game. GO SOONERS!
Pro life . . .
I'm breathing a huge sigh of relief.
Oh gosh, if you judged me by my college friends...YIKES!! I'd probalby be in jail or on some mountain top, chanting "UMMMMMM."
Keating will be good. Look, it already had all the democrap disruptors hot and heavy on the negative posts. I'm liking this guy more and more.
Where did you live in Oklahoma?
Are you named after Patty Murry or Madeleine Murry O'Hair?
wait until you see Dubya alongside his much taller and more intellectually gifted Democratic opponent.Intellectually gifted? I just saw how well you got torn apart for that drivel so I won't pile on you for it. I am a compassionate conservative.
I will, however, point out what no one else has- that your other claim is wrong too, unless you define "much taller" as being one inch. Gore is 6' 1" and at the start of the primary season weighed 195. Bush is 6' even and at the start of the primary season weighed 193.
If you're going to post, why not be substantive? The drivel you've spouted here is more indication why Patrick J. Buchanan is at 2% and fading. There's no "There" there, with any of you.
If you're going to post, why not be substantive? The drivel you've spouted here is more indication why Patrick J. Buchanan is at 2% and fading. There's no "There" there, with any of you.
Keating is a great choice! He's pro-life and solidly conservative. To say that Bush needs someone other than another Southwesterner is old fashioned. We're working with a newer paradigm now. Regionalism isn't the big concern it 100 years ago. Catholics, Republicans and prolifers all over the country know Gov. Keating. And those who don't will be pleasantly surprised when they hear him for the first time.
This is great news. I hope it pans out.