The difference between substance and hype has been the axis of the last 13 months. The Obama supporters fail to understand why 18 million people voted for Hillary Clinton, and why when handed the narrow option of Obama and McCain, they hesitate or grit their teeth when backing Obama. Stickland voiced his opinion and dismissed an idea. And, yes, it does speak to the ability of Obama to win swing states. Unlike the democratic primaries, the general election is winner take all. He can will all the states he wants, but without the big states it means nothing.

So who will be Obama’s VP? His choice is his first test and will go a long way in influencing the Clinton supporters and those still undecided.