He, is Tim Kaine, and while well-known mostly for being the governor of Virginia, these days that might seem to fall second on his resume just below ‘Tim Kaine – Democrat – Potential Running Mate of Senator Barack Obama”.

A seat riding shotgun on the Obama Express would seem like an opportunity just about anyone (at least a Democrat) would walk through hell in a gasoline suit to get. Baseball fans will note that I borrowed from a Pete Rose quote there.

You get the point. Love him or hate him, Barack Obama is heading a ticket that is unlike any seen in history. And yet, what do we get out of Governor Kaine?

“I haven't sought it. I’m not running for it. I’m not asking for it. I've never asked for anything of the campaign. I didn't endorse him to get anything. I endorsed him to help him and the area I think I can best help him is Virginia.”

Whoa! Stop the presses! He’s what? Not asking for it? Not seeking it? He even hammered home his point in another language:

“No soy un candidato por nada.” Translation: I’m not a candidate for anything.

Has this seemingly sane politician gone loco?

No. He’s coy. And with good reason.

 Just like Mitt Romney, Tim Pawlenty, Charlie Crist, Joe Biden and every other tested and veteran politician who is reported to be on Obama or McCain’s short list, Kaine knows that making any remark (be it positive or negative) could hurt his chances of being chosen as a veep.

Even though some have gone so far as to say they’re not interested, when given the opportunity to be the so-called “second most powerful man or woman in the world” there’s little chance any dust would settle on the RSVP card.

I guess we can’t blame them…but just once I would like a legitimate answer. I’m not asking for them to say, “Heck yeah I’m asking for it! Are you kidding me, a chance to ride in one of those sweet helicopters and avoid traffic on the Rock Creek Parkway? I just sent (insert your candidate’s name here) a box of Omaha steaks and a free month of Netflix hoping for an edge!”

What I would like to hear is this for an answer: “Yes, while I am very proud to serve my current constituents, I would be flattered, honored, and if asked WILL ACCEPT the offer.”

Is that so hard? Is that so damaging? After all, in most cases, it is….the truth.

I am guessing however, that my pleas fall on deaf ears. The essential “no comments” will continue and we reporters will continue to ask.

By the way, Senators McCain & Obama, if you’re feeling a bit dejected by the indifferent comments your current possible running mates are uttering and want someone who will accept the job before it’s even offered…you know how to reach me.