Terrible Idea Of The Day

Mike Allen reports that Romney is at the top of McCain's veep list. One problem: McCain (to his credit) can't stand him. Another problem: neither can most Americans. Noam comments:

If, as expected, McCain stays within the public financing system for the general election, how useful is the money Romney raises? Allen says Team McCain is likely to announce its veep choice shortly after Obama announces his, presumably in early August. Under the public financing rules, that would leave the McCain-Romney ticket about a month to spend any money it raises, which means Romney's ability to raise $50-$60 million in 60 days wouldn't necessarily be that helpful. Is it possible that McCain would follow Obama in opting out if Romney joins the ticket? (That would also free Romney to spend his personal wealth, no?*) Or would the money raised after the GOP convention just go to the RNC? Or would Romney start raising the money even before he was officially announced?

The only reason to pick Romney is to solidify the far right as the inheritors of McCain. And that would, in turn, push a lot of independents even more firmly into Obama's column.