IF Hillary chooses to step down, which would entirely be her choice, she hopefully would be the one to pick her replacement. Now, I don't think it will happen, and I also think she is simply sick and otherwise healthy. The loooong campaign has taken a toll. Flying that much and shaking so many hands exposes anyone to pathogens, and getting sick is not a shock. I doubt this is part of some larger chronic health issue that the deplorables and conspiracy theorists like to concoct.
That said, the rumors will fly. David Shuster and a British paper already have suggested contingency plans are being considered. But Shuster confirms that it is entirely up to Hillary if she wants to stay in or bow out. I think 95% she stays in. On the small chance she bows out, though, who would you like to replace her?
Here is the obvious short list:
1. Joe Biden — "Uncle Joe” has high approvals and no controversies. He’d smash DT.
2. Tim Kaine — Solid, clear, unsexy choice. But Tim never loses elections, and he wouldn't lose this one.
3. Bernie! — Would HRC want to pick the runner-up to her? Would this energize the base? Yep, I think so!
4. Someone else — Tell me in the comments who you'd like if HRC leaves race.
UPDATE: This diary hit a raw nerve, when all it was intended to do was take the temperature this evening of forum community sentiment in light of today’s development. I don't expect HRC to bow out, or be replaced. This question was a hypothetical. Sorry if it offended anyone.