Vice President Kamala Harris is intensifying her search for a running mate by interviewing six potential candidates this weekend. The selection process will culminate in a formal announcement and a battleground tour with her new vice presidential pick next week.
Harris’ shortlist includes Governors Andy Beshear of Kentucky, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Tim Walz of Minnesota, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. This information comes from two individuals familiar with Harris’ selection process who requested anonymity to discuss private campaign deliberations.
Among the frontrunners in Harris' expedited selection process are Shapiro and Kelly, both seen as strong contenders. The process initially considered about a dozen names, with some candidates publicly withdrawing, such as North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. Cooper, who shares a close bond with Harris from their time as state attorneys general, expressed concerns about the frequent travel demands of a national campaign role.
The deadline for Harris to choose her running mate is effectively set for Tuesday. This timing coincides with the launch of a tour across seven key battleground states, beginning in Philadelphia.
When asked about Harris' search for a vice presidential candidate, President Joe Biden mentioned he had discussed the matter with her but refrained from offering specific advice on the qualities she should prioritize in a running mate. “I’ll let her work that out,” Biden commented on the South Lawn of the White House before departing for Wilmington, Delaware, for the weekend.
Several individuals on Harris' shortlist have made abrupt changes to their schedules, signaling the advancement of the selection process. For instance, Governor Shapiro canceled three-weekend fundraisers in Long Island, New York, without providing a detailed explanation. Shapiro’s press secretary, Manuel Bonder, stated that the governor’s trip was planned weeks in advance, but his schedule has changed.
A fundraising event for Shapiro, organized by Michael Kempner, President Biden's national finance committee member, was also postponed. Kempner's note to invitees hinted at Shapiro's potential selection as Harris' running mate, contributing to the speculation.
Further fueling the rumors, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker posted a social media video featuring Philadelphia-area officials and Democrats supporting Harris for president while also promoting Shapiro for vice president. This video led to speculation that Parker might have insider knowledge about Harris' decision. However, a source close to the mayor clarified that the video supported Harris and Shapiro, noting that Parker’s endorsement was based on friendship and political alignment.
As Harris prepares for the next phase of her campaign, the political world eagerly awaits her final decision on who will join her as the vice-presidential candidate. The upcoming battleground tour will be crucial for introducing her choice to the nation and solidifying support ahead of the election.