Virginian surfaces as VP searches heat up

RICHMOND, Va. – John McCain’s campaign has asked Virginia Rep. Eric Cantor for personal documents as the Republican presidential candidate steps up his search for a running mate, the Associated Press has learned.

Cantor, 45, is the chief deputy minority whip in the House.

With just weeks till the national conventions, McCain and Democratic Sen. Barack Obama have knuckled down in their search for vice presidential candidates.

Cantor has strong support among the party’s conservatives, perhaps comforting a segment of the GOP base that has been reluctant to embrace McCain. Cantor is Jewish and is among Israel’s most avid congressional supporters. If McCain wins, Cantor would become the first Jewish vice president. Cantor also would provide youth to the ticket.

Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine has been mentioned as a possible running mate for Obama, along with Sens. Evan Bayh, of Indiana, and Joe Biden, of Delaware, and Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

Among others believed to be getting close looks from McCain: Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney and former Ohio Rep. Rob Portman.