Republican U.S. Rep. Dan Lungren believes U.S. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) should look to his biggest rival from the Republican primary when he's considering vice presidential picks.

Lungren (R-Gold River), a California delegate, said former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney would be the best choice to balance the ticket in a way that helps McCain win in November.

"He has the ability to articulate an economic policy to people," Lungren said of Romney. Lungren acknowledged that McCain - by the Arizona senator's own admission - is more focused on foreign policy and homeland security issues.

"I think Mitt Romney can fit that need and balance the ticket," Lungren said.

Lungren added that he had no inside knowledge of McCain's pick, but had supported the presumptive Republican presidential nominee since he began making plans for a presidential bid two years ago.

Lungren noted that a year ago, when McCain's campaign had financial problems and seemed to be floundering, the candidate responded in a way that should help him against presumptive Democratic nominee U.S. Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois.

"He forged a public persona that's stronger and deeper that what might emerge out of a traditional campaign," Lungren said. "The American public has seen John McCain, warts and all. They know who he is."

Most believe McCain will announce his running mate within the next week, on the eve of his party's nominating convention in St. Paul, Minn.

Speculation has focused on Romney, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty and Florida Gov. Charlie Crist, among other candidates, in recent weeks.