Rice: McCain's Secret Weapon

BLACK, FEMALE, (CHRISTIAN) AND GUTSY

McCain's Secret Weapon: Condoleezza Rice

By Gabor Steingart in Washington

When two people argue, it sometimes means that a fourth person wins out. The increasingly hostile duel between the Democratic presidential contenders could present a golden opportunity for one of the great talents in US politics: Condoleezza Rice. She could very well end up becoming McCain's running mate.

A Little Glamour Wouldn't Hurt McCain

Only yesterday, McCain did not rule out Rice as a possible running mate. When asked about Rice, he said only that she hadn't approached him yet. At the same time, he did his utmost to praise her, as a "great American" and as a "role model to millions of people in this country and around the world."

'Condoleezza Is Campaigning for Her Candidacy'

There is a kernel of truth to the speculation over Rice, despite her spokesman having denied any such aspirations. The clues that point to her interest lead directly to foot soldiers in the Republican Party.

For the first time since taking office as secretary of state, Rice recently visited one of the meetings of the lobby group Americans for Tax Reform, especially influential during election periods. It is important to note that, for many Americans, their love of country is only exceeded by their affection for money.