The rumors continue:
A well-placed source says that the president will “most likely” drop Dick Cheney from his re-election ticket and his first choice for a replacement is former New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani.
“The issue of Cheney’s health will probably be given as the reason,” says the insider. “There�s a short list of possible replacements, and Rudy is at the top of the list.”
The source adds that the selection of the former New York mayor may be overridden by Bush advisors from the far right. “Giuliani has been pro-choice, pro-gay rights, and is pretty liberal on some other social issues, but the thinking is that he might broaden Bush�s appeal.”
Health would be a convenient excuse. Interestingly, Cheney hasn’t had another heart attack since assuming office, so one could argue his health must have actually improved.
Assuming, as one must, that Bush’s next move is driven by political calculations, the Cheney replacement story is credible. With a term under his belt, Bush can claim he doesn’t need a seasoned running mate as he did in 2000. Cheney doesn’t bring any electoral help to the ticket; to the contrary, his Halliburton/Iraq/energy bill record is becoming an increasing liability. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him dumped.