Vice President Kamala Harris is conducting interviews with several potential running mates this weekend in preparation for a formal announcement and a tour of battleground states with her new No. 2 next week.
Among those on her interview list are Govs. Andy Beshear of Kentucky, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, and Tim Walz of Minnesota, as well as Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, according to sources familiar with Harris’ selection process. These sources preferred to remain anonymous to protect the confidentiality of campaign discussions.
Shapiro and Kelly were considered top contenders in the initial selection process, which began with about a dozen candidates. Some candidates have publicly withdrawn from consideration, such as North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, citing concerns about extensive travel requirements if selected as the Democratic candidate for vice president.
Harris’ deadline for selecting a running mate is Tuesday, coinciding with the start of her tour of seven crucial battleground states, commencing in Philadelphia.
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President Joe Biden confirmed he has discussed the vice presidential selection process with Harris but declined to offer specific advice on what qualities she should seek in a running mate.
Several individuals on Harris’ shortlist unexpectedly canceled weekend plans, hinting at potential developments in the vice-presidential selection process. For instance, Shapiro canceled fundraisers in Long Island, NY, prompting speculation about his possible selection as Harris’ running mate.
While there is speculation and public support for Shapiro as vice president, no official announcement has been made by Harris. Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker’s video endorsing Harris for president and Shapiro for vice president has stirred further speculation, though a source close to the mayor clarified that it was merely an expression of support for both candidates.
