Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to announce her vice-presidential pick within hours after conducting interviews with three potential candidates on Sunday.
Among the interviewed were Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, all of whom met with Harris at her Washington residence.
It’s believed that other contenders may have participated in virtual interviews over the weekend.
Harris is set to be officially nominated at the top of the Democratic ticket later today, with her first public event alongside her chosen running mate scheduled for Tuesday in Philadelphia.
She will face off against Republican candidate Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election this November.
Here’s an overview of the leading candidates believed to be in contention for her vice-presidential nomination, starting with those interviewed on Sunday.
Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania Governor
Shapiro, known for his charisma and popularity, could significantly impact Harris’s campaign in Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground for Democrats.
His swift response to rebuild a collapsed bridge on a major Philadelphia highway last year gained national attention.
Should he be selected, he would make history as the first Jewish vice president if the Democratic ticket wins.
However, Shapiro’s strong support for Israel during the ongoing conflict in Gaza may create divisions within the Democratic party.
Vulnerabilities: Advocates for public education have criticized Shapiro’s support for private school vouchers in Pennsylvania, which could be viewed as a liability in his candidacy.
During July, over two dozen pro-public school organizations urged Harris to select a running mate committed solely to public education.
Mark Kelly, Arizona Senator
Senator Kelly, representing a swing state, brings a strong resume that may appeal to voters from both parties.
As a former Navy pilot and NASA astronaut, his extensive experience includes over 50 days spent in space during various missions.
While he was sworn into office in December 2020 and is relatively new to Washington politics, his personal story may resonate with many voters.
Kelly’s border security policies and critiques of the Biden administration could also attract independent and conservative voters.
Vulnerabilities: Criticism has arisen regarding Kelly’s previous ties with World View, a company specializing in stratospheric balloons, which received funding from a major Chinese tech firm.
Tim Walz, Minnesota Governor
Governor Walz is a seasoned politician with 12 years in Congress before taking the governor’s office in 2018.
He drew national media attention for his unique remarks about Donald Trump, calling him “weird,” a sentiment that resonated with numerous Democrats, including Harris.
His straightforward, relatable Midwestern demeanor may appeal to independent and conservative voters.
A 20-year service member of the National Guard, he gained recognition for his leadership during the 2020 protests following George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis.
Vulnerabilities: Critics have challenged Walz’s management of the COVID-19 pandemic and his response to the protests in 2020.
Andy Beshear, Kentucky Governor
Governor Beshear has maintained a strong and supportive relationship with Harris.
At 46, he thrives as a Democrat in a state heavily favored by Trump, endearing himself to a broader audience.
His pointed critiques of Trump’s vice-presidential pick have gone viral, showcasing his ability to engage voters on critical issues.
Additionally, his expressions of Christian faith and commitment to education and abortion access are vital to his platform.
Vulnerabilities: Beshear’s veto of a law banning gender-affirming care for minors drew backlash from some Republicans in Kentucky.
Pete Buttigieg, Transportation Secretary
Transportation Secretary Buttigieg is not new to campaigning, having previously attracted support as mayor of South Bend during his 2020 primary bid.
His communication skills have notably shone since taking office, underlined by his ability to engage audiences and handle potential crises.
In recent times, he’s made headlines for his critical remarks regarding Trump’s policies and potential running mates.
Vulnerabilities: Buttigieg faced scrutiny over his management during crises such as the East Palestine train derailment and accusations of delayed responses in the aviation sector.
