Two rising stars for VP candidates

The vice-presidential sweeps are in full buzz, and there is increasing chatter surrounding two rising Democratic stars - Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius and Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano, two potential running mates who could help Barack Obama woo female voters.

Both are well-regarded within national Democratic circles for winning two terms in states that traditionally lean Republican. They are seen as serious contenders for the No 2 spot because Democrats worry Obama's presidential-primary victory has alienated supporters of his chief rival, Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Democrats in Sebelius' and Napolitano's states have been chattering about their prospects - with trepidation in some cases - though neither governor has said much herself.