Vice President Kamala Harris has been busy interviewing potential candidates for her vice-presidential nominee position over the weekend. The decision has sparked a competitive and divisive atmosphere within the Democratic Party, with tensions rising over who will be chosen to join the ticket.
Donors, interest groups, and political rivals from both the moderate and progressive wings of the party have been lobbying for their preferred candidates. One of the favorites, Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, has faced opposition from progressives and even a senator from his home state. The debates and discussions around the potential running mates have highlighted political weaknesses and preferences among key demographics.
Despite the intense pressure and lobbying, the final decision on the running mate is expected to be announced by Tuesday. Three leading contenders, including Gov. Shapiro, Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, and Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, met with Vice President Harris at her residence in Washington over the weekend. The campaign has kept tight-lipped about the details of these meetings, with a spokesperson declining to comment.
The upcoming campaign trail will see Vice President Harris and her running mate embarking on a five-day, seven-state tour, starting with a rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday. Progressive groups have been critical of candidates like Gov. Shapiro and Senator Kelly, accusing them of being too conservative on important issues. For example, the president of the United Automobile Workers union expressed concerns about Mr. Kelly’s stance on pro-labor legislation and Mr. Shapiro’s support for school vouchers during a recent interview on CBS.
The decision on the vice-presidential nominee is crucial for Vice President Harris as she gears up for the upcoming election. The tensions and divisions within the Democratic Party have come to the forefront during this selection process, highlighting the challenges of balancing the interests of different factions within the party. As the campaign progresses, the choice of running mate will play a significant role in shaping the narrative and direction of the Democratic ticket in the upcoming election.