As Vice President Kamala Harris nears her decision on a running mate for the upcoming election, speculation is rampant. With Joe Biden endorsing Harris and stepping aside, all eyes are on who will join her on the Democratic ticket.
Among the array of potential candidates, a surprising contender has emerged: Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. In an interview with MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow, Buttigieg expressed his unequivocal support for Harris, after the historic nature of Biden’s decision to step down.
“We had a great conversation,” Buttigieg said. “You know, I have campaigned alongside her. I have traveled with her. I have served with her. And she’s going to be an extraordinary leader for the ticket, for the party, and for the country as president.” When directly asked if he would be willing to serve as Vice President, Buttigieg maintained a diplomatic stance.
“She’s going to make that decision. She’s going to do it based on what’s best for the country, best for the party, and best for the ticket. I will do everything in my power to make sure that she is the next president because it’s so important and it’s really most of all important in terms of how everyday life is going to change,” he said, leaving the door open to the possibility without overtly asserting his ambition.
As the Democratic National Convention draws near, the spotlight will be on Harris’ selection, a decision that will shape the party’s direction heading into November. Harris has a number of potential vice presidential candidates to consider. These candidates include Pete Buttigieg, the Secretary of Transportation, and Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI). Additionally, Senators Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) are also strong contenders.
Stacey Abrams, known for her voting rights activism, and Gavin Newsom (D-CA), are on the list as well. Other potential picks are former Rep. Val Demings (D-FL), Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Governor Tim Walz (D-MN).
Former President Donald Trump responded on Sunday following Biden’s announcement that he was abandoning his reelection bid ‘for the good of the country.’
Biden’s announcement followed weeks of increasing pressure to withdraw from the race after his disastrous debate performance against former President Donald Trump last month. An expanding number of Democrats, supporters, and donors, including Hollywood elites, joined the call for him to step down. This surge in demands was fueled by a series of post-debate polls showing a significant drop in support for Biden nationwide, particularly in crucial battleground states.
Trump responded via his Truth Social page: “Crooked Joe Biden was not fit to run for President, and is certainly not fit to serve – And never was! He only attained the position of President by lies, Fake News, and not leaving his Basement. All those around him, including his Doctor and the Media, knew that he wasn’t capable of being President, and he wasn’t.
“And now, look what he’s done to our Country, with millions of people coming across our Border, totally unchecked and unvetted, many from prisons, mental institutions, and record numbers of terrorists. We will suffer greatly because of his presidency, but we will remedy the damage he has done very quickly. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” he added.
Disclaimer: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author’s opinion.