Kamala Harris Narrows VP Selection to Walz and Shapiro, Sources Say
Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris has reportedly focused her vice presidential search on two finalists: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, according to three sources familiar with the matter. Harris, the current U.S. vice president, is expected to reveal her choice by Tuesday, ahead of her first public appearance with the selected running mate at Temple University in Philadelphia.
In a message to her supporters on Monday night, Harris acknowledged the anticipation surrounding her decision but stated that she had not yet made a final choice. “I know many of you are eager to find out who I will be selecting to join me on the campaign trail, and hopefully in the White House, as my Vice President,” she wrote. Harris emphasized the importance of keeping grassroots supporters informed and provided a link for them to receive the announcement first.
A Crucial Decision Amidst a High-Stakes Campaign
The selection of a running mate is a pivotal moment in Harris’ political career as she gears up to challenge Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and his vice presidential pick, U.S. Senator JD Vance, in the November 5 election. Vance is also scheduled to make a campaign stop in South Philadelphia on Tuesday.
Josh Shapiro, 51, is seen as a rising star within the Democratic Party, boasting strong approval ratings in Pennsylvania, a critical battleground state with 19 electoral votes. As a former state attorney general, Shapiro’s inclusion on the ticket would be historically significant, potentially making him the first Jewish vice president. Harris, aiming to become the first Black and South Asian American woman president, would benefit from Shapiro’s support among moderate voters, though his strong pro-Israel stance might alienate some progressives.
Tim Walz, 60, a former U.S. Army National Guard member and teacher, has recently gained attention as a vigorous advocate for Harris. Known for his sharp criticism of Trump and Vance, Walz’s appeal extends to rural, white voters, a demographic crucial for the campaign. Despite representing a solidly Democratic state, his connections to neighboring battleground states like Wisconsin and Michigan add strategic value.
Kamala Harris Narrows VP Selection to Walz and Shapiro – Sources Say
Finalists and Decision-Making Process
The search, which began earnestly after President Joe Biden’s withdrawal and endorsement of Harris, initially considered six finalists: Shapiro, Walz, U.S. Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. The final candidates will be informed of Harris’ decision by Monday night or Tuesday morning, with a social media announcement planned to introduce the chosen duo.
Harris’ vetting process has involved consultations with former Attorney General Eric Holder and his law firm, Covington & Burling LLP, which thoroughly examined the finances and backgrounds of the potential running mates. Harris is making the decision with input from her husband, Doug Emhoff, her brother-in-law, Tony West, and a close circle of aides and advisers.
Kicking Off the Campaign
The selected vice-presidential candidate will join Harris on a five-day, multi-city tour of key battleground states, starting with Tuesday’s rally in Philadelphia. The tour will cover six cities: Philadelphia, Eau Claire, Detroit, Durham, Phoenix, and Las Vegas, with events held at various venues, including college campuses, historically Black universities, union halls, and restaurants.
To bolster support, the Harris campaign has launched “Republicans for Harris,” a program aimed at swaying Republican voters, with endorsements from former Trump White House officials Stephanie Grisham and Olivia Troye. This initiative will hold kickoff events in Arizona, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania.
On Monday, Harris also secured an endorsement from the hospitality workers’ union, highlighting her consistent support for union workers.
As Harris prepares to announce her vice-presidential pick, the focus remains on how this decision will shape the campaign and influence voters in the upcoming election.
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