I think we basically view VP selection completely wrong. There's a strong tendency to focus on electoral implications - which is logical, given the timing.

But evidence that VPs impact voting behaviour is weak and is really only borne out in the candidate's home state. Instead, we should encourage nominees to think of VPs more as perhaps their most important chance to influence the direction of the party after their time is done.

VPs have a far higher success rate at winning the nomination (and with it, a chance at the presidency) than any other position.