WASHINGTON — Vice President Kamala Harris is set to interview six potential running mates this weekend, leading up to a formal announcement and a campaign tour in battleground states next week.
The candidates on her interview list include Governors Andy Beshear of Kentucky, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, and Tim Walz of Minnesota, alongside Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. This selection process follows a vetting of about a dozen names, with some candidates, such as North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, having opted out due to concerns about travel commitments on a national ticket.
The deadline for Harris to finalize her choice is approaching rapidly, with the launch of her campaign tour in seven critical battleground states starting in Philadelphia on Tuesday.
President Joe Biden recently confirmed he has been in discussions with Harris regarding her search for a running mate, though he refrained from offering specific advice on the qualities she should prioritize.
Interestingly, several individuals on Harris’ short list have canceled their weekend plans, indicating a shift in the selection process. For instance, Shapiro has postponed three fundraisers planned in the Long Island area, with little explanation provided by his team.
One fundraiser was set to feature prominent Democratic fundraiser Michael Kempner, who indicated the gathering has been postponed. He openly supports Shapiro as Harris’ potential running mate, further fueling speculation about the vice-presidential selection.
A recent video from Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker added to the excitement, featuring local officials advocating for both Harris and Shapiro. This prompted some to wonder if the mayor had insider information regarding Harris’ decision-making.
However, a source close to Parker clarified that her video was intended to show support for both Harris and Shapiro, rather than indicate any inside knowledge on the vice-presidential selection process.
