Vice-President Kamala Harris is set to interview potential running mates on Sunday as she prepares for a crucial battleground tour next week.
Among those heading to Washington, DC, to meet with Ms. Harris are Governor Josh Shapiro, Senator Mark Kelly, and Governor Tim Walz. CBS, the BBC’s US partner, reports that the list of candidates has been narrowed down to five contenders. The final decision must be made before the Democratic National Convention, which begins on August 19 in Chicago.
It remains uncertain whether other prospects, such as Governor Andy Beshear or Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, are scheduled for interviews with Ms. Harris.
Harris officially secured the Democratic presidential nomination on Friday following a vote by party delegates. Once her running mate is chosen, the duo is expected to embark on a tour of key battleground states.
Governor Josh Shapiro, who has enjoyed high approval ratings since his election in 2022, could help Harris secure the pivotal state of Pennsylvania. Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, a former Navy pilot and NASA astronaut, has emerged as a prominent advocate for gun safety. His strong stance on border issues and occasional criticisms of the Biden administration might attract independent and conservative voters. Governor Tim Walz, who transitioned from a 12-year congressional career to govern Minnesota in 2019, gained national attention for his unconventional campaign strategy, which included calling Donald Trump and JD Vance “weird.”
President Joe Biden revealed on Friday that he has discussed the search for a running mate with Ms. Harris. When asked about the qualities she should consider in a vice-presidential candidate, he replied, “I’ll let her work that out.”
Candidates vying to join Ms. Harris on the Democratic ticket for November’s election will undergo an extensive vetting process, answering up to 200 questions before being seriously considered. Unlike the presidential nominee, the choice for vice president does not require a delegate vote.
