There is still a sniff of something in the air...

which requires everything offered here to carry a huge caveat. But as long as the conversation is turning toward Vice presidential candidates I am going to offer, as I did yesterday, the opinion that Obama serves his needs -approaching the general election by staying on point regarding his message of change. This lends itself to choosing a Washington outsider.

The first level of outsiders to be considered would be Democratic Governors- each bringing exectutive experience and basic electoral benefits based on his or her state and qualifications.

There are 26 Democratic Governors currently serving. I do not know any of the personalities involved, so this analysis is based solely on advantages each brings to the electoral map.

I have narrowed it down to five potential VP nominees. They are listed here in no particular order.

Janet Napolotano is the sitting governor of Arizona- a red state. She was ranked by time Magazine in 2005 as one of the 'top 8 in '08', a group of women who could run and win- based on qualifications- for president in 2008. She is serving her second term in a traditionally red state. This pick would be bold as it would bring the electoral fight right to McCain's doorstep. 10 electors in her home state.

Kathleen Sabelius- Governor of Kansas- a red state- gave Democratic response to 2008 State of the Union Address. Sabelius is also regarded as a well qualified future presidential candidate- the VP spot could gain her name recognition. While Kansas itself has only 6 electors there could be carryover in the midwest as well as in other red states.

Bill Richardson of New Mexico, second term Governor of New Mexico- a red state. While this state only carries 5 electors there are carryover advantages for appeal to the hispanic community and for other westewern states. He has national experience as an ambassador under Bill Clinton. There would be some appeal to Catholic voters.

Edward Rendell, Governor of Pennsylvania- a swing state. He was considered a potential candidate in his own right. He has been a vocal advocate for Hillary and has campaigned on her behalf. He has broad appeal in his own state and that could carry over into other blue collar states. 21 electors cannot be ignored.

Ted Strickland of Ohio- a swing state. Very popular in his own state he also would have some appeal to Clinton supporters. He is on 'everyone's' shortlist for many of the same reasons as Rendell. It is believed that Rendell has a stronger 'machine' behind him. Ohio carries 20 electors.

If these were the only five candidates he could consider- we would be in a good place.

Jennfier Granholm of Michigan is also very popular and was attractive to me until I discovered that she is Canadian born and as such ineligible. She is widely considered to be a potential Attorney General for any Democratic administration.

I want to let these digest but will commetn more later. Also for consideration are other non-washington types- there are a few of those which I will add to the list.