Mitt Romney Not Seriously Interested in Marco Rubio as Running Mate, Politico Says

Speculation that Marco Rubio could be the GOP's 2012 vice presidential nominee dates back to pretty much his first day in office as senator, and even Mitt Romney has mentioned Rubio as a possible candidate. Politico, however, reports that Senator Rubio is not being seriously considered as a potential running mate by Romney's campaign. Not only does Rubio lack experience, but apparently he's not "boring" nor "white" enough for the campaign.

Here's the key sentence from a Politico report on Romney's hunt for a VP, which purports to come from campaign insiders:

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who is not being as seriously considered as popularly believed because aides don't see him as experienced enough or appropriately vetted.

Rubio has said numerous times that he does not want to be on the ticket this year, and does not plan to accept an offer if it came.

A history of money problems (including a foreclosed home in Tallahassee co-owned by Rep. David Rivera), and minor scandals (seemingly personal charges on a party credit card, a formerly held job sweetheart job at FIU) haven't deterred Rubio from rising to prominence, but his past could be scrutinized more closely if he was chosen as Romney's running mate.

Politico insists, however, that Romney is looking for a far less flashy VP candidate. One unnamed GOP official even says the campaign is looking for an "incredibly boring white guy."

Apparently names like Ohio's Sen. Rob Portman, former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels, and Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell are at the top of the list.

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