Some Say Edwards is Destined for National Spotlight

"I think it's wonderful," says Barbara Allen of theN.C. Democratic Party. "I'm not real surprised, because he is a great person. I think he's good leadership for North Carolina and for the nation."

Allen has long thought of John Edwards as North Carolina's best-kept political secret. She is glad Al Gore let the rest of the country in on it by considering Edwards as a running mate. The party leader expects to see Edwards in the national spotlight again, possibly as a candidate for president.

N.C. State Universityprofessor Andrew Taylor recently completed a congressional fellowship. He says Edwards is considered a rising star in the Capitol.

"There are a lot of people who think he has presidential aspirations, and clearly, this is a nice way for him to be introduced to the public," Taylor says.

As a freshman senator, Edwards landed the high-profile assignment of questioning witnesses during the impeachment proceedings against President Clinton. He has also earned a reputation as a dealmaker with a strong grasp of policy.

Edwards may not be his running mate, but Vice President Gore is expected to ask Edwards to campaign with him.