10 People Kamala Harris Could Pick as Vice President
As the anticipation grows for Kamala Harris to announce her running mate, the Democratic National Convention looms closer. With a variety of potential candidates to choose from, Harris has a challenging decision ahead of her. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top contenders:
Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly
Mark Kelly, a 60-year-old senator from Arizona, is a former NASA astronaut and Navy combat pilot. His rise to political prominence came after his wife, then-Rep. Gabby Giffords, survived a tragic shooting in 2011. Kelly’s advocacy for gun safety and his victory in the special election against Republican incumbent Sen. Martha McSally in 2020 make him a strong candidate to represent a key battleground state.
Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro
Josh Shapiro, 51, has been serving as governor of Pennsylvania since 2023. His track record of outperforming Democratic presidential nominees in the state and his focus on key issues like abortion rights make him a viable contender to secure Pennsylvania’s 19 Electoral College votes.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear
Andy Beshear, the 46-year-old governor of Kentucky, has shown his ability to charm voters in a traditionally red state. His leadership during natural disasters and his emphasis on abortion access make him a strong candidate to appeal to a diverse range of voters.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
Gretchen Whitmer, 52, has been a leading voice in the Democratic Party as governor of Michigan since 2019. Her focus on reproductive rights and her successful reelection campaign in a battleground state position her as a strong running mate for Harris.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker
J.B. Pritzker, 59, has been the governor of Illinois since 2019. While not from a battleground state, his strong stance on key issues like gun control and reproductive rights, combined with his financial resources as a billionaire, make him a valuable asset for the campaign.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom
Gavin Newsom, 56, the governor of California, has been a prominent progressive figure and a frequent mention as a future presidential candidate. While his national recognition would be a valuable asset, the 12th Amendment presents a potential obstacle due to both him and Harris being residents of the same state.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore
Wes Moore became Maryland’s first Black governor in 2023 at the age of 45. His military background, academic achievements, and strong leadership during crises make him a rising star in the Democratic Party and a potential running mate for Harris.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg
Pete Buttigieg, 42, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and current transportation secretary, brings experience as a presidential candidate and a strong advocate for key issues like transportation and LGBTQ rights. His ability to engage with diverse audiences, including on Fox News, makes him a compelling choice.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper
Roy Cooper, 67, has been North Carolina’s governor since 2017 and has a strong track record of overcoming challenges in a state that has seen political shifts in recent years. His experience as attorney general and state legislator makes him a seasoned candidate for the vice presidential role.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz
Tim Walz, the two-term governor of Minnesota, has led progressive policy initiatives in his state and has a deep understanding of the political landscape in the upper Midwest. His experience as a teacher, congressman, and chair of the Democratic Governors Association make him a strong contender for the vice presidential slot.
As speculation continues to swirl about Harris’ running mate selection, each of these potential candidates brings unique strengths and experiences to the table. The Democratic National Convention promises to be filled with excitement and anticipation as Harris makes her crucial decision for the 2024 campaign.
