Traditionally, when is the VP chosen by the nominee?

[Lex]

The Democratic National Convention starts July 26th, I believe.

Is that one of the things that happens after the official nomination for President by the party?

Does the VP selection usually happen AT the convention or afterward?

I haven't ever kept up with things so closely before, and I'm curious about the timeline here.

[MajorFlaw]

1. I suspect that Kerry already has an idea of who he wants

to run with. And he would be foolish to announce it before the convention. Why interfere with all the potential VP picks trying to show their value to him between now and July. While shrub is in free fall I see no reason for Kerry to do much of anything other than polish his stump speech, campaign around the country, and raise money. Works for me.

[SheilaT]

2. For many years the VP

nominee was selected at the convention. I know that Clinton announced Gore as his running mate well before the convention, and I seem to recall that Bush I may have picked Quayle somewhat before the convention.

[Lex]

3. Thanks!

So sometime slightly before, or even at, the Democratic Nat'l Convention.

Now that you said that I seem to recall that the VP must've been named *before* the convention in some cases (as you said) because there would be a 'buzz' around the VP at the convention and his speech would be much anticipated because of his VP status.

I think I'm recalling that correctly.

Looking forward to watching all this unfold.