Kerry chooses Edwards as his running mate.

(From Belfast Telegraph)

Byline: Rupert Cornwell in Washington

Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry and running mate John Edwards

John Kerry yesterday named the charismatic North Carolina senator John Edwards as his running mate for November's presidential election, injecting glamour and excitement into the Democratic ticket and setting up one of the closest and most bitterly fought contests of modern times.

Mr Kerry made the announcement at a Pittsburgh rally, less than two hours after he had informed other possible candidates for the vice-Presidency of his choice. Last night Mr Edwards and his family were having a private dinner with the Kerrys. Today they head for the industrial city of Cleveland in Ohio - a key swing state - to make their first appearance together for the launch of their joint campaign.

Mr Edwards, Mr Kerry said of the man who gave him his toughest battle in the primaries, "had shown guts and determination …