Ted Strickland - 2008 Election

2008 Election

Due to his more conservative politics (for instance, he was voted an 'A' by the NRA) and popularity in what is presumed to be a key swing state, Strickland was mentioned as a possible Democratic Vice Presidential nominee in the 2008 election. Nonetheless, Strickland repeatedly and vehemently denied that he would accept a position on the ticket if offered. Most speculation of his potential selection as Barack Obama's running mate died out by the summer of 2008.

Strickland spoke on the second night of the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Many commentators, including former Reagan speechwriter Peggy Noonan, credited Strickland with delivering the best line of the convention: "You know, it was once said of the first George Bush that he was born on third base and thought he'd hit a triple. Well, with the 22 million new jobs and the budget surplus Bill Clinton left behind, George W. Bush came into office on third base and then he stole second. And John McCain cheered him every step of the way."