The pool of potential running mates for Kamala Harris, the likely Democratic presidential nominee, has decreased as North Carolina governor Roy Cooper and Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer have withdrawn their names from consideration.
Since vice president Harris emerged as the Democratic frontrunner about a week ago, following President Joe Biden‘s decision to end his campaign, the crucial choice of a vice presidential nominee has taken center stage.Harris is considering a list of candidates, primarily white males, who could help balance her ticket and broaden her appeal to a larger group of voters.
In a statement on Monday, Cooper said, “I was honored to be considered for this role. This just wasn’t the right time for North Carolina and for me to potentially be on a national ticket.” Similarly, during an appearance on “CBS Mornings,” Whitmer stated that she was “not a part of the vetting” process for Harris’ running mate, adding, “I have communicated with everyone, including the people of Michigan, that I’m going to stay as governor until the end of my term at the end of 2026.”
Over the weekend, Harris took a break from campaigning to hold private discussions with several candidates, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, according to two sources familiar with the calls. Other contenders being considered are Kentucky governor Andy Beshear, US senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Minnesota governor Tim Walz, and secretary of transportation Pete Buttigieg.
The candidates have been appearing on national television to highlight what they can contribute to the campaign. Buttigieg, who is considered a long shot even by his supporters, spoke privately with Harris about the opportunity, according to two sources familiar with the event. He also held a call with a group of donors from his 2020 presidential campaign, during which he expressed his desire for the position but stated that he would respect the process, the sources said.
Since vice president Harris emerged as the Democratic frontrunner about a week ago, following President Joe Biden‘s decision to end his campaign, the crucial choice of a vice presidential nominee has taken center stage.Harris is considering a list of candidates, primarily white males, who could help balance her ticket and broaden her appeal to a larger group of voters.
In a statement on Monday, Cooper said, “I was honored to be considered for this role. This just wasn’t the right time for North Carolina and for me to potentially be on a national ticket.” Similarly, during an appearance on “CBS Mornings,” Whitmer stated that she was “not a part of the vetting” process for Harris’ running mate, adding, “I have communicated with everyone, including the people of Michigan, that I’m going to stay as governor until the end of my term at the end of 2026.”
Over the weekend, Harris took a break from campaigning to hold private discussions with several candidates, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, according to two sources familiar with the calls. Other contenders being considered are Kentucky governor Andy Beshear, US senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Minnesota governor Tim Walz, and secretary of transportation Pete Buttigieg.
The candidates have been appearing on national television to highlight what they can contribute to the campaign. Buttigieg, who is considered a long shot even by his supporters, spoke privately with Harris about the opportunity, according to two sources familiar with the event. He also held a call with a group of donors from his 2020 presidential campaign, during which he expressed his desire for the position but stated that he would respect the process, the sources said.
