As Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton press on neck and neck, hurling muck at each other, towards a likely deadlock at the Democratic convention in Denver, an out-of-the-box scenario could well become a reality, and resolve the party’s dilemma. One has come across it in political fiction somewhere. In that story even the votes of the Super

Delegates failed to clinch the issue and give any one candidate a clear majority, because some voters refused to endorse either of them.

Then, at the appropriate moment, a lone voice from the floor raised the name of a new candidate, someone generally respected in the party. This voice was supported by another from the other end of the hall. And another, till it became a chorus, rising finally to the level of a deafening crescendo. Of course, it was all very well orchestrated. And, ultimately, in the interest of party unity, the two warring candidates withdrew from the race and the wildcard entrant was, amidst much acclaim and jubilation, declared the party’s candidate for the presidential election.

Could the same scenario be repeated at Denver? In the race so far both Clinton and Obama have tarnished each other’s reputations and have both declined in their ‘positive ratings’. This would worry the party. Chances of any compromise between them also appear remote.

Could the Democrats, instead, come up with a third name — someone with a clean reputation and stature who may be acceptable to all factions, and yet give the current contenders a way out without losing face? The name that instantly comes to mind is that of former vice-president, Al Gore. He has the experience because of his eight years as Bill’s number two, and, earlier, as a state governor. He has not taken sides in the current battle. The Nobel has added to his aura. And Americans must be feeling guilty about the way he was cheated out of the big prize in 2000. He would be an unbeatable candidate. He has not thrown his hat in the ring so far, but if he does, he could bag the nomination, and eventually the presidency.