Editorials

What about Bob?

It's a natural question upon reflecting on John McCain's selection for a vice presidential running mate, the 44-year-old governor of Alaska who has been on the job less than two years and who before 2007 was mayor of a town of 6,000.

Consider this. Alabama's Republican governor has three terms as a congressman under his belt. In Washington, he compiled a conservative voting record. He's served one four-year term as governor and is almost halfway done with a second. His track record at recruiting international business to Alabama is superb. He's assembled a talented economic development team.

Riley has been bold and maverick-like in pushing the Amendment 1 reform measure that so rankled the Republican far-right base. Since then, he's chipped away at Alabama's unfair tax system, but not in a way that would panic the rabid anti-taxers in the GOP.

Also, the 63-year-old has a track record as a successful businessman with small-town roots. Imagine the national press corps descending on Clay County and being utterly charmed by the place. He's a Baptist who would likely ease the concerns of the religious right.

Riley isn't perfect. His appointment of Troy King to fill the term of attorney general Bill Pryor was a disaster. He's had his share of disappointments in the Legislature.

Democrats might make sport of the fact that Riley was standing beside President Bush in 2005 when the infamous phrase, "Brownie, you're doing a heck of a job," was uttered. But it would be tougher to criticize Riley's performance during hurricanes Ivan and Katrina.

Don't get us wrong. It would be bad for Alabama to lose Riley. The state needs his leadership for the full term. What's more, this is largely academic. McCain has picked Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin. She's made her public debut. Soon the public will learn more about her. Some will be good. Other items will be bad, including her inexperience and slim resume.

From here, the pick of Palin appears grossly cynical, a naked appeal at identity politics.

If McCain was looking for a governor with many successes, we're surprised he didn't come calling to the governor's mansion in Montgomery.