Who could be Kamala Harris’s running mate in the 2024 Election?
As Harris looks to build a ticket that will appeal to a broad range of voters, several key figures are being floated as potential vice-presidential picks.
SHAH ALAM - With Kamala Harris now the presumptive Democratic nominee following Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, speculation is mounting over who she might choose as her running mate in the 2024 United States (US) Presidential Race.
After President Joe Biden announced he would not pursue a second term, Kamala Harris quickly emerged as the Democratic Party's presumptive nominee.
Biden’s decision was followed by an outpouring of support from high-profile Democrats, many of whom had been considered potential candidates themselves. Now, the focus shifts to Harris’s next big decision: who she will select as her running mate?
Contenders for the Number Two Spot
As Harris looks to build a ticket that will appeal to a broad range of voters, several key figures are being floated as potential vice-presidential picks.
Mark Kelly:
The Arizona senator brings swing-state credibility and a moderate stance within the Democratic Party. His background as a combat veteran, navy pilot and former astronaut could attract independent voters. Kelly’s advocacy for gun reform, spurred by the tragic shooting that left his wife, former congresswoman Gabby Giffords, partly paralysed, adds to his appeal.
While he has remained non-committal about his own ambitions, Kelly has expressed full support for Harris, saying she is the right person to lead the country.
Josh Shapiro:
Pennsylvania’s governor has emerged as a strong contender. Shapiro has a proven track record of winning in a swing state, having served as Pennsylvania’s attorney general before becoming governor.
Known for his bipartisan appeal, Shapiro has also been a vocal opponent of Donald Trump. His swift endorsement of Harris and his reputation as a unifying figure have placed him among the top names under consideration.
Tim Walz:
The Minnesota governor is another name gaining traction, particularly as Trump’s campaign hints at targeting traditionally Democratic Minnesota. Walz, a former teacher and national guard sergeant, has a down-to-earth demeanour that resonates with voters.
He has shown himself to be an effective fundraiser and campaigner, and like his peers, Walz has been careful to express both interest and humility regarding the possibility of joining Harris on the ticket.
Andy Beshear:
As the Democratic governor of deep-red Kentucky, Beshear’s inclusion on the list is intriguing. Despite governing a state that strongly supported Trump, Beshear has taken bold stances, such as vetoing Republican-led bills on abortion and gender-affirming care (although these vetoes were later overridden).
His ability to win in a heavily Republican state and his willingness to stand up to figures like Trump’s running mate, JD Vance, make him a compelling choice.
Pete Buttigieg:
The US Transportation Secretary and former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, rose to national prominence during his 2020 Presidential Run. As a navy veteran and an openly homosexual politician, Buttigieg brings a unique perspective and has proven to be a powerful communicator for Democratic causes.
Despite navigating a challenging period for the country’s transportation systems, Buttigieg remains a popular figure and a potential running mate.
Off the Table
While several Democrats are being considered, others have ruled themselves out or are unlikely to be selected.
Gretchen Whitmer:
The Michigan governor, a rising star within the party, was seen as a potential presidential contender or running mate. However, Whitmer quickly made it clear that she intends to remain in Michigan, focusing on her governorship until her term ends in 2026.
Roy Cooper:
The North Carolina governor, nearing the end of his term, has a long history of public service and bipartisan work. While his name was mentioned, Cooper has stated that he does not wish to be considered for the vice-presidential spot, instead focusing on supporting Harris’s campaign.
Wes Moore:
The Maryland governor and the only sitting Black governor in the country, has been mentioned as a potential future presidential candidate. However, Moore, who was sworn into office in 2023, has expressed a desire to continue his work in Maryland, preferring to build his legacy in the state rather than join the national ticket at this time.
As Kamala Harris prepares for the next phase of her campaign, the choice of a running mate will be crucial in shaping the ticket and appealing to a wide range of voters.
With several strong contenders in the mix, the decision is sure to generate significant interest and speculation in the coming months.
