Minority candidates may transform party's image during election
The recent Republican primary race may be presenting voters with a unique situation: The field of vice presidential candidates is more appealing than the presidential ones. The strong chance for a woman or minority to be on the Republican ticket as a VP candidate could transform both the primary and general elections into momentous occasions for the conservative right.
One potential choice for the Republican ticket could be Condoleezza Rice for her foreign policy experience and Southern roots. Her appeal to Hispanics from former President George W. Bush’s immigrant-friendly immigration policies and her identification with the African-American community would add a new dimension to Republican politics. She could fill the field’s void in those aspects of the American electorate.
Our own Gov. Nikki Haley is also on the short-list for the VP nomination when looking at her progress in economic development. However, the controversies surrounding her — both before she was elected governor and during in her governorship — present a serious challenge to her viability. Additionally, her minority status is undermined by her support for stricter immigration policies and mediocre public approval ratings. So, she may be more fit behind the scenes in a Cabinet position rather than as VP.
As a result, the focus turns to Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, whose heritage as the child of Cuban immigrants has led to an inspiring story of success and perseverance for the Republican. He is the front-runner for the Republican VP nomination due to his youth, Hispanic heritage and electoral votes from swing-state Florida. Given the strength of his profile — and the need for Republicans to rebrand their party — Sen. Marco Rubio is the most desirable candidate for this GOP election cycle.