Final answer:
Presidential nominees primarily consider a vice-presidential candidate's ability to add balance and appeal, preside over the Senate, and advise on domestic policy.
Step-by-step explanation:
When selecting a vice-presidential candidate, a presidential nominee is usually concerned primarily with choosing a running mate who:
- Adds balance and appeal to the national ticket: Presidential nominees want to ensure that the vice-presidential candidate will bring complementary qualities, skills, or characteristics to the ticket to appeal to a broad range of voters.
- Can effectively preside over the Senate: The vice president serves as the president of the Senate, and although they normally do not have a vote, they may cast a tie-breaking vote in case of a division.
- Can serve as the most important domestic policy advisor to the president: The vice president often plays a crucial role in advising the president on domestic policy matters, providing insights, recommendations, and expertise.