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Obama's Neighbors Weigh In On Veep Selection

CHICAGO (CBS) ― Barack Obama's choice of running mate is the best kept secret in Washington.

Everyone's got an opinion, and as CBS 2's Mike Parker reports, the presumptive Democratic nominee's neighbors are weighing in.

Amidst the stately old homes and mansions of Hyde Park, it's no secret that Sen. Obama is the people's favorite. He is a neighbor after all, the guy who lives down the street in that other big old house.

But his choice for a running mate is still a secret, even among the locals at the well-known cafeteria on 53rd street where Obama's been known to have breakfast.

Obama hasn't told them, but they have their preferences. Unscientifically, CBS 2 found a good deal of support for Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine.

"We need support on the East Coast and Tim Kaine's a very strong candidate coming from the East Coast," said Todd Geoghegan. "He's one of the most powerful political leaders."

"I think it would be wise of him to have someone who's a little bit outside the beltway and who has some rooted values," said Amy Khare, also a Kaine supporter.

And there were kind words for the senator from Delaware.

"With Joe Biden, he would be a good choice because of his foreign policy experience and his stature," said Jason Bruce.

And at the Hyde Park farmer's market, shoppers were not only buying vegetables, they were also buying the idea of Sen. Evan Bayh of neighboring Indiana.

"I think he fits with the message of newness and change in Washington," said Thomas Jobe.

If you care to read between the lines, Obama appears to have ruled out a female running mate. The other day, three times in the same sentence he referred to his looming choice as "he." Was that a clue or imprecise wording?

We'll find out soon, perhaps as early as Friday morning.

(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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