Strickland Will 'Absolutely Not' Be Obama's Running Mate

In an interview today with N.P.R's Michele Norris, Governor Ted Strickland of Ohio, a major Hillary Clinton supporter who is now backing Barack Obama, said he would, under no circumstances, be Obama's running mate.

A partial transcript, as sent over by N.P.R.:

NORRIS: If you're out campaigning with Barack Obama with the fervor that you've just described in the course of this interview, should we see that as a bit of an audition for you?

STRICKLAND: Absolutely not. If drafted I will not run, nominated I will not accept and if elected I will not serve. So, I don't know how more crystal clear I can be.

NORRIS: Don't they all say that, though?

STRICKLAND: No, I don't think they all say that. I've heard people say, 'you know, if I was asked, it would certainly be something I would have to consider.' That does not mean that I am any less committed to helping Barack Obama become the next president.