Seems We Won't Get Jim Webb to Kick Around After All...

Jim Webb, touted by the media hordes - and by, well, ME - as a potential Obama VP has bowed out of the race.

"Last week I communicated to Senator Obama and his presidential campaign my firm intention to remain in the United States Senate, where I believe I am best
equipped to serve the people of Virginia and this country. Under no circumstances will I be a candidate for Vice President."

This comes as the Obama campaign has apparently begun the formal vetting process of its shortlisted candidates.

It's a little mysterious why Webb would choose to step aside at this point, but possible explanations include:

1) He felt he could be more effective in the Senate - considering we are likely to pick up the other VA Senate seat and a stronger majority this year, he may be looking forward to getting through some of his favorite legislation.

2) He didn't want to be vetted, for whatever reason.

3) Having run in 2006 he didn't relish returning to the heat of a campaign at this point (he's hinted at this himself).

4) The campaign may have signalled that he's not at the top of their list, and offered him this graceful exit.

Whatever the reasons, it leaves us with a slightly shorter list of VP prospects, but no more idea who the ultimate choice will be! The suspence builds...