I'm not sure VP is a strong endorsement, especially since they are selected forpolitics moreoften than qualifications. At least 3 were barely VP, and a couple were highly qualified efore they ever became VP. But I agree, it is certainly important for me that a candidate have some experience under their belt (but Senate/congress can provide that-but not in a few years). I think that Obama may be the smartest bulb in the election, but I am not expectingtosupport him because he needs to be in a few battles and gain some experience. For the record, being first lady is not a qualification. Limiting my commenyts to the dominant candidates, McCain has never been a Gov, but long service in the senate, and his peculiar military service qualifies him in my mind, there are others, but we will have to see what shakesout in the next month.

For the record,

Hoover was not a Gov, but was a sec of commerce
Coolidge came after Harding (he was a VP), but he didinfact serveabout a year as Gov.
Harding was neither a VP nora Gov (does Lt Gov count)
Taft was not a state gov, but was gov of philipinnes, his greater claimwas that ofa lawyer and judge
Ford and Truman were VPs for very short periods of time (months), but had long runs in congress