WASHINGTON // Democratic presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama prolonged the suspense on his vice presidential pick today. Mr Obama said he has chosen an independent voice who is ready to be president and is strong on economy, without revealing the name. The Illinois senator has dragged out the announcement of a 'veep' for maximum political impact, but is running out of time. The Democratic nominating convention opens on Monday, with the vice president accepting the nomination on Wednesday. Mr Obama, 47, said he had searched for a running mate who could help him govern.
"The third criteria for me I think was independence. I want somebody who is going to challenge my thinking and not simply be a 'yes' person when it comes to policy-making," he said. Mr Obama's announcement could come at any time, and he is expected to appear with his choice on Saturday in his home state of Illinois.
History has shown the choice of a running mate is unlikely to have a major impact on the election, but the choices give both candidates a chance for the political spotlight. Speculation about Mr Obama's choice has centred on four prime contenders:
Indiana Senator Evan Bayh , Delaware Senator Joseph Biden, Virginia Governor Tim Kaine, and Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius. * Reuters
