Candidates Address Being a ‘Heartbeat’ Away

Susan Davis reports from St. Louis on the vice presidential debate. The vice presidential candidates were asked how their administrations would differ from their respective running mates if they had to step in to the role of president for any circumstances. “God forbid it would ever happen it would be a national tragedy of historic proportions,” Joe Biden said. He said he would keep his administration focused on policies Barack Obama has advocated to improve the middle class. “In essence I agree with every major initiative he has suggested.” Biden also called 2008 the “most important election any of you will have voted in” since 1932. Franklin D. Roosevelt defeated Herbert Hoover that year, also a time of U.S. economic crisis. Sarah Palin offered the same “God forbid” sentiment, but acknowledged that she does disagree with John McCain on some policies, including his opposition to drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. “What do you ... (link)