HALPERIN'S TAKE: Reasons NOT to Make an Early VP Pick

1. It is the summer and the public is not paying much attention.
2. Any Veep bounce could be squelched by the Olympics.
3. Weeks of additional scrutiny by the press, the opposition, and interest groups for the new running mate.
4. Weeks of additional gaffe opportunities for the new running mate.
5. Could keep some of those not picked from working aggressively to ingratiate themselves (raising money, etc.).
6. Risks draining needed excitement from the convention.
7. Locks in a pick when changing political and world realities might call for a different choice.
8. Could lead to rushing the vetting team.
9. Could look panicky and/or unthoughtful.
10. For the Democrats, could alienate Clinton supporters before sufficient unity work is done.
