Colin Powell would make the ultimate vice president.  He is moderate and was one of the greatest generals we've ever had.  He has the respect of the majority of Americans while at the same time he has the respect of the international community.  Because of the current day issues he'd be a valuable asset to either candidate. 

During the Bush administration, he was used as a pawn.  I am almost 100% certain that his presentation of reasons why we should go to Iraq was not his perspective, but the White House's. 

I think both candidates should seriously consider him as their running mate.  With out Powell I am more inclined to vote for McCain; I'd feel much much better if they teamed up.  If he teamed up with Obama, I would almost definitely vote for a democrat (for president) for the first time in my life, despite the many issues that I am at odds with a potentail Obama administration.