Kerry's VP process near completion, Edwards stock UP, Clark DOWN (sludge)

[Doosh]

http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A50708-2004Jun17?language=printer

John F. Kerry has been phoning friends at all hours and reviewing vice presidential choices dating to 1932 as the Democratic candidate nears what many consider the biggest -- and most telling -- decision of his general-election campaign, according to Democrats inside and outside the campaign

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Sen. John Edwards (N.C.) has emerged as the favorite of many Democratic senators and Kerry friends and advisers. Edwards's stock has shot up in recent weeks as private polling shows the freshman senator providing a boost to the ticket in key states because of his southern appeal and perceived likeability, two sources close to the campaign said. "The delay in announcing someone has helped Edwards," a Democrat close to Kerry said.

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Two Democrats close to Kerry said retired Gen. Wesley K. Clark's stock plummeted after the former Democratic presidential candidate received lackluster reviews from some former colleagues.

Women and minorities are rarely cited by Kerry's allies as top contenders. But history shows the eventual vice presidential pick is often someone the campaign and media have not mentioned. Think Richard B. Cheney in 2000.