DALLAS (AP) - U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison says John McCain's choice as his running mate is a bold move designed to sway independent women voters.

Hutchison says that by choosing Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, McCain is making it clear that he wants an "up and comer," who represents "the next generation" of leadership.

The seasoned senator also says choosing the little-known 44-year-old governor reinforces that McCain wants to be the independent reformer.

Hutchison said today at her Dallas home that she wasn't disappointed she was not McCain's pick. There had been speculation that Hutchison was a possible choice for the No. 2 spot on the ticket.

Hutchison has hinted that she might run for Texas governor in 2010. And says she doesn't "want to spend four more years in Washington."

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)