Kamala Harris considering 5 Democrats as potential running mates

Vice President Kamala Harris is on the brink of announcing her running mate selection, a decision that could come as early as later this week or next week. Harris has swiftly garnered support from the Democratic Party following President Biden’s surprising announcement of ending his 2024 re-election bid and throwing his support behind his vice president.

With verbal commitments of support from a majority of delegates attending the upcoming Democratic National Convention, Harris is now seen as the presumptive presidential nominee, shifting the spotlight to the crucial question of her running mate. Several prominent politicians have campaigned fervently on behalf of the vice president in recent days.

While some potential contenders, such as North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, have opted out of consideration, the clock is ticking towards the impending announcement. Here are five top Democrats who remain in contention to serve as Harris’s running mate:

Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona:

Mark Kelly, aged 60, a former Navy pilot and NASA astronaut, has represented the swing state of Arizona in the Senate since 2020. He won a special election to succeed late GOP Sen. John McCain, breaking a four-decade Democratic drought for the seat. Kelly, known for his fundraising prowess, could prove pivotal for Harris with his ability to mobilize financial resources.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro:

Josh Shapiro, aged 51, boasts a six-year tenure as Pennsylvania’s attorney general and ascended to the governor’s office in 2022. Named as Harris’s running mate, Shapiro could provide the Democrats with a boost in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state in the northeastern region.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz:

Tim Walz, aged 60, is serving his second term as governor of Minnesota, a historically Democratic state that has recently emerged as a competitive battleground. With a record of progressive policy achievements, Walz could appeal to Midwestern swing states like Wisconsin and Michigan, bolstering Harris’s chances in the region.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg:

Pete Buttigieg, aged 42, a former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, rose from obscurity to become a leading contender for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination. As transportation secretary in the Biden administration, Buttigieg’s visibility and communication skills could greatly benefit Harris’s campaign message.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear:

Andy Beshear, aged 46, followed his father’s footsteps to win elections as Kentucky’s attorney general and subsequently as governor. Despite Kentucky’s deep red leanings in presidential races, Beshear’s focus on state-specific issues and his adept handling of crises make him a compelling partner for Harris.

As the anticipation builds for Vice President Kamala Harris’s announcement of her running mate, the Democratic Party awaits a decision that could shape the course of the 2024 presidential campaign. With a diverse array of potential candidates in the mix, Harris’s choice will undoubtedly be scrutinized for its strategic, electoral, and messaging implications.