State support for Biden runs high among Dems, but does it matter?

Sen. Joe BidenNow that the text messages are in, and the world knows that Barack Obama has selected Delaware Sen. Joe Biden for his running mate, the question remains, what does it mean here in Washington?

Reactions from Evergreen State Democrats have been positive so far, even if they acknowledge that the number two spot on the ticket pales in comparison to the party's main draw, Barack Obama.

U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Arlington) issued a press release this morning championing the selection of Biden, saying it was yet another example of good judgment from Obama, a trait the Illinois senator has made into a key component of his campaign.

"Biden is the perfect choice for vice president," said Larsen, who endorsed Obama in May. "His credentials complement Obama's already impressive qualifications.

"This decision shows good judgment on Obama's part. Senator Joseph Biden will be an integral part of a White House team that can help Barack Obama get the economy back on track, solve our energy crisis, and re-establish our foreign policy standards."

Democratic National Committee member Ed Cote of Vancouver agreed, and added that Biden would serve well in the role of attack dog.

"I think Joe Biden is a fighter and I think he has got the right values. He is ferocious he is not going to let the Republicans get away with anything. He is tremendously smart and a great speaker."

Cote also suggested the Biden pick would add another wrinkle for the GOP. "I think it is going to be harder for McCain to attack him because they are friends," he said.

Asked if that sentiment would go both ways, Cote didn't think so.

"I think Biden has long experience about attacking the Republicans. He's not going to let them get away with the swift boat type stuff they are starting to roll out already."

But ultimately, "the second place guy doesn't make much difference most of the time, anyway."

8th Congressional District challenger Darcy Burner's spokesman Sandeep Kaushik felt the same way.

"At first glance I would say, ‘hey we think it is a great choice.' Joe Biden obviously has great foreign policy credentials," he said. "But I don't think it has a whole lot of bearing on our race. The important thing is that Barack Obama is the nominee. We believe he is going to win Washington handily in November and win the 8th District. I think that is what is important. I don't think the selection of Joe makes a difference in our race."