As the Democratic Party gears up for the 2024 election, it’s a busy time for Vice President Kamala Harris as she seeks to choose her running mate.
With the clock ticking towards the August 7 deadline for the party’s nomination, Harris has secured enough delegates to become the presumptive presidential nominee. The big question now is who will join her on the ticket.
A variety of prominent Democrats are being considered for the vice-presidential spot, including governors, lawmakers, and other officials.
Among Republicans, several names are seen as strong contenders, capable of complementing Harris and challenging former President Donald Trump in the fall.
Republican strategist Kevin Madden, who previously worked on Mitt Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign, highlighted candidates like Mark Kelly, Josh Shapiro, Roy Cooper, and Andy Beshear.
He emphasized the importance of personal relationships and trust factors in the selection process.
Matt Wolking, another Republican strategist, sees Shapiro and Kelly as particularly formidable candidates.
However, he pointed out that selecting Kelly could risk losing a Senate seat in Arizona, a crucial battleground state, should the Democrats win the election. With a tight Senate majority, this is a significant consideration for the party.
Ed Rollins, a veteran political strategist who played a key role in Ronald Reagan’s reelection campaign, believes the election will come down to key states like Michigan and Pennsylvania.
He argues that winning these states is crucial for any candidate’s credibility.
Rollins sees Shapiro and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer as strong choices, noting that Shapiro, although less experienced, knows how to win tough races.
The Importance of the VP Choice
Rollins also mentioned that while the vice-presidential pick might not automatically sway the election, it’s essential for the candidate to be seen as capable of stepping into the presidential role if needed.
This consideration is particularly crucial at this stage in the campaign.
GOP Strategist Scott Jennings echoed these sentiments, singling out Shapiro as the most formidable running mate due to his talent and the significance of Pennsylvania in the election.
Jennings also noted that choosing Shapiro would be a significant moment for Harris, potentially challenging the anti-Semitic and anti-Israel elements within her coalition.
Shapiro’s Campaign Efforts
Whether or not Shapiro ends up as Harris’s pick, he’s already actively campaigning for her. The Pennsylvania governor recently kicked off a weekend of action in Carlisle, PA, to mark 100 days until the election.
With over 8,000 volunteers signed up in the state, Shapiro’s presence on the campaign trail is a significant asset for the Democratic ticket.
His strong electoral history in Pennsylvania, including a decisive win in the 2022 governor’s race and previous victories as Attorney General, makes him a compelling figure in this election season.
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