HURRICANE, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin predicted Wednesday that Virginia Governor Tim Kaine will be Barack Obama's choice as a vice-presidential nominee on the Democratic party ticket.

"I think this country will be blessed if it happens and Barack will have a strong, strong ticket," Governor Joe Manchin told reporters.

Manchin said he spoke with Governor Kaine today on his way to a luncheon at Sleepy Hollow Golf Club in Hurricane. He indicated that Kaine said he did not know what was going to happen over the next few days.

"I'm truly rooting hard for Tim," Manchin said.

Manchin believes Kaine could help Obama win West Virginia, because of the geographic proximity and other similarities between Kaine's state of Virginia and West Virginia. Kaine has been mentioned in the media as one of three potential finalists, along with Senators Joe Biden and Evan Bayh.

Manchin also talked with reporters about his opportunity to speak in prime time during the Democratic National Convention next week in Denver. He said his speech will be quick -- about four minutes -- and will focus on the good aspects of West Virginia and our economy.

"I've never had this big of an opportunity," Manchin said.

Manchin will speak Tuesday along with other governors, including Ted Strickland of Ohio.