Clinton-Gore showed regional balance not key, McCain says

NORFOLK, Va. -- On his first full day as the likely Republican presidential nominee, John McCain fended off discussion of specific potential running mates but made clear he sees no requirement to pick someone from a different region.

''I don't want to in any way sidestep the candidacy of Governor Huckabee,'' McCain told reporters here before flying off to Wichita, Kan., and Seattle. ''He's in this race, and for me to dismiss him would be inappropriate and unrealistic.''

Nevertheless, the Arizona senator did offer his view that regionally balanced tickets may be a thing of the past.

Since McCain's chief rival Mitt Romney suspended his campaign, some party figures have suggested McCain might select Mike Huckabee as a vice presidential nominee to benefit from the Arkansas governor's proven appeal in the South, where McCain has less support.

''From a practical standpoint, I think former President Clinton and Vice President Gore showed us you don't have to be regionally different,'' McCain said.

AP