Trial lawyer John Edwards will be John F. Kerry’s running mate, producing what must be the wealthiest presidential ticket in history.

WASHINGTON - Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry on Tuesday selected former rival John Edwards to be his running mate, calling the wealthy former trial lawyer and rookie senator a man who showed “guts and determination and political skills” in his unsuccessful race against Kerry for the party’s nomination.

As Kerry made the announcement at a rally in Pittsburgh, a huge crowd of supporters burst into applause, waving handmade signs that mixed with professionally printed “Kerry-Edwards” signs kept under wraps until the last minute.

“I trust that met with your approval,” Kerry said with a smile. A banner unfurled behind him; it read, “Kerry-Edwards. A stronger America.”