Is it standard fare for candidates to deny accepting a potential VP slot?

In recent mass media appearances, both Clark and Edwards have forcefully asserted that they would not accept the position of vice-president should they not win the nomination.

I can see that by denying that they are vying for a VP slot, they are asserting their perception of being a "serious" candidate, but do they really, truly mean it?

Both Clark and Edwards, should they not win, would be absolutely superb VP candidates and would compliment any ticket.

In past primaries, where future vice presidents were competing for the presidential nod, did they deny wanting the VP slot before getting it?

I know this scenario hasn't happened often, but am curious anyway. Thanks.

Standard behavior. It would be defeatist to admit you'd happily accept the second slot at this point. Don't have any specific past examples in mind, however. Perhaps some older folks out there with longer memories can chime in.

playing to win, which would kill even a decent campaign.

(Sorry that I'm skipping your question and instead focus on your premise...)

Essentially, because your question revolves on the "credibility" (sincerity, honesty) of candidates who make such a pledge.

I'd be mightily suprised (and yes, quite a bit disappointed) if Clark or Edwards would accept running for VP.

Well, come to think of it, maybe I can think of one scenario where it might be considered "acceptable" - namely when, just before the nomination, support for the two "top cnadidates" end in a total gridlock amidst frontal mutual opposition, and a choice fore either one would effectively pose a crippling threat for both.

Other than that (and let's hope it is just a mental exercise) I believe accepting the VP slot would have a negative effect on voters for the Democratic ticket.

where the candidate-turned-veep-candidate scenario actually played out. I know BushSr became Reagan's veep candidate after a campaign but I'm not sure if it counts because no matter what Bush said or didn't say it was probably a lie of some sort.

What about Democrats? What Democratic candidates became VP candidates?

if he was asked during the campaign.

Funny, they were both from Texas.

he's got the obvious strengths that a lot of dem voters want, Clark is saying, if you want what I bring you have to put me at the TOP of the ticket.

accept the vice presidential call. Even non-candidates, in either party. Saying you are interested in the #2 spot is looked upon as angling for it.

Look back through recent history, back to 1960. You won't find anyone who might possibly be asked admitting they would accept it.

It's quite a different matter when that phone call comes from the nominee of your party, though.

Nobody would ever admit to ever wanting the VP slot b/c it would be a detriment to their own presidential campaign.

But, if asked, I think they would accept (at least I hope).

Gore laughed and said that he was definitely NOT interested in the vice presidency in 1992. When Clinton called and offered it to him, however, he accepted immediately.

Same with both Quayle and Bentsen in '88, Ferraro in '84 etc. etc.