Feingold: Presidency in reach for blacks, women

Democrat says he prefers Senate to vice presidency

By Kelly McBride kmcbride@greenbaypressgazette.com

The United States is ready for either a black president or a female president, Sen. Russ Feingold said Thursday, but he's not necessarily endorsing the candidates that fit those descriptions — yet.

Back in his home state to host several listening sessions this week, Feingold, D-Wis., spoke to the Green Bay Press-Gazette editorial board about a variety of foreign and domestic issues — including the 2008 presidential race.

"I think a woman can win this thing. I think a black person can win this thing," Feingold said. Then, with a laugh, "I think a Jewish person could've even won this thing."

Although no longer talking of a presidential bid, Feingold — who is Jewish — insists he's right where he wants to be. He won't completely quash the notion of becoming someone's running mate — if the opportunity arose — he said. But for now, he's happy being a senator.

"It's not what I want," he said of potential running-mate status. "You know, it wouldn't be an awful thing. I'm not saying that. … But I obviously prefer this."

Feingold isn't currently endorsing anyone, he said, but tends to lean toward people who support his views — he mentioned former Iowa Gov. Tom Vilsack and Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., by name.

"But whether or not I'll actually endorse somebody — I might," he said. "But I'm very anxious to see how people will perform."

During his listening sessions — Feingold is holding one in Door County and one in Kewaunee County today — he hears about a variety of issues from constituents, he said.

And while the Iraq war has come up more frequently during the past couple of years, there's one concern — health care — that remains the most talked-about topic overall.

"People are so frustrated with the employer-based system," he said. "… I have always believed in a universal health care system."

Feingold and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., are working to introduce a bill that would peg three states to pilot different types of health care systems — for instance, health savings accounts — to see what works best.

"We'd have real facts, on the ground, to compare what's working and what isn't," Feingold said.