http://thehill.com/blogs/ballot-box/presidential-races/243561-kasich-i-have-best-resume-for-2016May 31, 2015, 12:23 pm
Kasich: I have 'best resume' for 2016
By Mark Hensch
Gov. John Kasich (R-Ohio) said on Sunday that he had the strongest political background of any 2016 presidential candidate.
“I think it’s the best resume and a terrific record,” Kasich told host Chuck Todd on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
Kasich has long teased a White House run next year but has not yet publicly declared a bid.
“I’m optimistic about where we are,” he said Sunday.
“I don’t need to do this to have a good life but I think I can help our country,” Kasich added. “If I can really step up and help it, I intend to do it.”
Kasich has repeatedly touted his efforts combating crime in the Buckeye State.
He said on Sunday he would remain a fierce protector of its death penalty law while remaining in office there.
“I have supported the death penalty and will continue to do so,” Kasich said.
“A lot of families just want a sense of closure and to see justice done,” he said of victims who favored the state’s ultimate punishment.
“It isn’t about revenge, it is about justice,” he added.
Kasich additionally showed his bipartisan side by extending kind words toward Vice President Biden, a Democrat.
Biden’s son, Beau Biden, died on Saturday night at age 46 following a prolonged battle with brain cancer.
“Joe Biden is a special guy,” he said. “Whether you agree with him or not, he’s a standup guy.”
“I’m going to pray for him,” Kasich told Todd. “God bless you, Joe.”
Kasich said he understood Biden’s loss, given his closeness to his own family.
His loved ones, he added, are a major concern while he weighs an Oval Office bid.
“If I think I can’t win, Chuck, I don’t want to burden my family or my friends,” he told Todd.
