After Joe Biden’s recent debate performance, many top Democrats are now discussing who Kamala Harris might choose as her running mate. A growing number of party leaders, operatives, and donors doubt that Biden can successfully run for reelection, according to CNN’s talks with various Democratic politicians and operatives.
Biden often says to compare him to the alternative, not the almighty. Increasingly, Democrats are looking at Harris as that alternative.
Harris and her team have been staying on message, showing support for Biden while making some changes. After the debate, her office scheduled her to be with Biden for the Fourth of July picnic and fireworks, a first for her. She also joined a meeting with Democratic governors, closing it with a speech promoting unity and support for Biden.
Harris is sticking close to Biden, but Biden is also keeping her close. Despite her efforts, Democratic politics is starting to focus on her, with former President Donald Trump’s campaign already attacking her. Some Democratic officials are urging donors to support Harris and are working on plans to convince Biden to endorse her.
Leading Democratic governors are being discussed as potential running mates for Harris, including Roy Cooper of North Carolina and Andy Beshear of Kentucky. Others mentioned are Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, J.B. Pritzker of Illinois, and Tim Walz of Minnesota. This would mean Harris might not get to choose her own running mate, unlike other presidential nominees.