HALPERIN'S TAKE: The Unexpected in the Veepstakes So Far

1. There have been no rumblings or leaks about full-bore resume-spouting/favor-pulling/arm-twisting campaigns by people who want to be on the ticket.

2. There have been almost no public efforts by interest groups or political figures to warn Obama or McCain away from certain picks.

3. There have been almost no public efforts by interest groups or political figures to champion certain picks (with the exception of those supporting Hillary Clinton).

4. There have been very few news stories examining the actual public records and accomplishments of the leading possibilities.

5. There have been no memorable real-time gaffes by the most discussed prospects.

6. There has been little talk about whether Bill Richardson and/or John Edwards are on Obama's short list – and if not, why not.

7. There has been an absurd amount of talk about the foolishness of announcing a pick during the Olympics – as if there won't be any news covered during the Games, and as if an announcement of a selection wouldn't break through. (Indeed, imagine the sports related puns cable news would use to blare major veepstakes news).

8. None of Obama's five (or more) pollsters have been “caught” testing different Obama-X combos.

9. Senator McCain's mother hasn't publicly weighed in on her favorite choice. (Although, if an enterprising reporter called and asked….)