Worldandnation: Campaign notes: Obama scorns clinton offer of no. 2 spot

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Campaign notes: Obama scorns clinton offer of no. 2 spot

By Times Wires
Published March 11, 2008

COLUMBUS, Miss.

Democrat Barack Obama ridiculed the idea of being Hillary Rodham Clinton's running mate Monday, saying voters must choose between the two for the top spot on the fall ticket. The Illinois senator used his first public appearance of the week to knock down the notion that he might accept the party's vice presidential nomination. He noted that he has won more states, votes and delegates than Clinton so far. "I don't know how somebody who is in second place is offering the vice presidency to the person who is first place," Obama said, drawing cheers and a standing ovation from about 1,700 people in Columbus, Miss. Saying he wanted to be "absolutely clear," he added: "I don't want anybody here thinking that somehow, 'Well, you know, maybe I can get both.' Don't think that way. You have to make a choice in this election."

PHOENIX

Doctor, funds on McCain itinerary

Sen. John McCain, 71, had a full medical screening on Monday. While the GOP nominee has previously been treated for skin cancer, he said nothing precipitated his visit. "Everything's fine," he said. His next step Monday was raising campaign cash. He was headed to a fundraiser in St. Louis and planned to continue today in New York, Wednesday in Boston, Thursday in Pennsylvania and Friday in Chicago to counter an explosion in donations to the Democratic contenders, who each set personal bests in February.

WASHINGTON

Bush offers him - or her - advice

Speaking at a White House celebration of women's history month and international women's day Monday, Bush extolled the value of women occupying high places in an administration and said, "My advice to the next president is to surround him - or her - with strong, fearless women," Bush said. As he waded into the sentence, he slowed and then stopped briefly after he said "him." Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton is the only woman in the race.