Q&A with DEAN SKIP RUTHERFORD –
Q. Now that it’s Barack Obama vs. John McCain, who do you think will win?
A. Don’t ask me. I’m the one who predicted a few months ago it would be Hillary Clinton vs. Rudy Giuliani. In 1992, I told Bill Clinton he didn’t have a chance winning the presidency.
Q. Do you think disgruntled Hillary Clinton supporters will ultimately vote for Obama?
A. Yes, most will — just as I believe most disgruntled Repubicans will ultimately opt for McCain. The stakes are too important for both sides. Once the wounds of disappointment and defeat begin to heal for Hillary supporters, all one has to say is three words: “Supreme Court appointments.” For many women who supported Hillary, the Supreme Court during the period 2009-2013 will be particularly important.
Q. Do you believe the media was more critical of Clinton than of Obama?
A. I don’t know. I didn’t review all the coverage. But I don’t think the media can be blamed for Hillary’s defeat. It was Obama’s use of technology, his wins in the caucuses, and his strong support among African Americans and young people that provided him the victory margin.
Q. Will Obama pick Clinton as vice president?
A. I don’t know that one either. There’s a compelling case (18 million primary votes) for him to do so. She certainly ended the campaign in a position of strength.
Q. Has the “Clinton Brand” been hurt?
A. Not over the long haul. The “Clinton Brand” has survived a lot tougher challenges and 18 million Americans are enthused about it.
Q. What about John McCain?
A. Keep your eye on Michigan. If he can win there and he’s currently ahead according to the polls I’ve seen, Ohio becomes a must-win for Obama. If Michigan is indeed the battleground, Mitt Romney’s vice presidential chances probably go up.