Why Biden is the best candidate Democrats have if he runs

[bedstuy]

I like Biden.  In 2008, my preference for President was 1. Obama 2. Biden, and 3. Clinton.  That said, he is viewed as something of a goofball and he has a low-approval rating.  It seems that being VP generally tanks your approval ratings, you get none of the credit and all of the hatred.  Although, I wonder whether his personal appeal could win over the country eventually.  He showed in the Ryan debate that he's a great debater and he exceeds expectations.  But, ultimately, he's not a great candidate.  His numbers are just bad, he's too old and he's had more than his share of gaffes. 

Should something happen to Clinton, I think we're just plain screwed.

[bedstuy]

I think that's a bit of grass is always greener mentality.  Moderate Republicans saying, "oh, Biden, that's the Democrat I like!  Not that awful Hillary Clinton."

That's why Clinton had sky-high ratings in 2011-12.  People said, "oh, Hillary, that's the Democrat I like!  Not that awful Obama."  Once the partisan spotlight hits you, your approvals go back to earth.