From Reuters: "PITTSBURGH (Reuters) - Democratic White House hopeful John Kerry on Tuesday chose North Carolina Sen. John Edwards, "a champion for middle class Americans," as his vice presidential running mate.

"I am pleased to announce, that with your help, the next vice president of the United States will be Senator John Edwards of North Carolina," Kerry told a boisterous rally in downtown Pittsburgh.

The presumptive Democratic nominee to face President Bush in November, Kerry credited Edwards, a first-term senator and millionaire trial lawyer, with "guts, determination and political skills."

"He has shown courage and conviction as a champion for middle class Americans and those struggling to reach the middle class," Kerry said of Edwards, who had been Kerry's chief rival in the party's primary selection process.

Many Democrats were impressed with his charismatic style and populist message in his spirited campaign against Kerry for the party's presidential nod. Edwards has since raised money for Kerry and had lobbied openly for number two spot. While he was not at Kerry's side when the announcement was made, the two were to campaign together for the next few days."