July 1, 2008

Currently serving his fourth term in the house, representing Virginia's 7th district, Eric Cantor's name has been out there as a possible VP candidate for John McCain, Monday being mentioned by http://www.politico.com in a list of viable longshots for VP.

"He brings a couple of significant assets. He's a big moneyraiser, he's a member of the congressional leadership, Republican leadership in the house, that's very useful. Virginia will almost certainly be a contested race in the fall," said David Mark, senior editor at politico.com.

"Cantor's background both politically and also in the business world is something that could be an advantage to McCain as he tries to address the economic issues that a lot of voters are concerned about in this election," said Matt Smyth of UVa's Center for Politics.

But if asked would he accept?

"I'm really not in the business of answering hypotheticals like that," said Cantor.

He says that he's concentrating on serving his district, but has endorsed McCain and says he'll do what he can to help him win.

"Helping him campaign and helping him be as competitive as possible this election and I'm very optimistic that he will win the election to the presidency of the United States," said Cantor.

Cantor also says he believes Virginia will continue it's Republican voting trend this fall, but in an election that has seen many firsts, could a longshot be asked to join a ticket?

"I think when push comes to shove John McCain and Barack Obama are likely to go with somebody who's tried and true," said Mark.