Political analyst Aaron Blake and discussion expert Elahe Izadi discuss potential VP picks for Kamala Harris, focusing on candidates like Josh Shapiro, Governor Kelly, Gretchen Whitmer, Roy Cooper, Andy Beshear, and JB Pritzker. They delve into each candidate's background, potential impact on the 2024 election, and the selection timeline for Harris' running mate.
Selecting a VP with crossover appeal in red states like Kentucky Governor Beshear could secure bipartisan support.
Choosing an experienced politician similar to Obama's VP Biden, such as North Carolina Governor Cooper, is crucial for winning challenging political landscapes.
Deep dives
Critical Swing State Picks for Kamala Harris Running Mate
The podcast delves into potential vice presidential picks that could deliver crucial swing states for Kamala Harris. Three notable candidates discussed include Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. Shapiro's bipartisan image in Pennsylvania, Kelly's political experience and compelling personal story, and Whitmer's progressive stance and bipartisan reputation make them strong contenders to help secure pivotal electoral votes.
Experienced and Battle-Tested Politician: Selection Criteria
The episode highlights the importance of choosing an experienced politician akin to Obama's selection of Biden in 2008. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper emerges as a seasoned candidate with a track record of winning statewide in challenging political landscapes. Cooper's ability to secure votes across party lines and his long-standing political career position him as a reliable and competent choice to bolster the campaign.
Exploring Crossover Appeal and Sleeper Picks
The podcast explores the significance of selecting a candidate with crossover appeal in red states. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear stands out as someone who successfully secured victory in a predominantly Republican state, showcasing meaningful bipartisan support. Additionally, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, with his rural roots, military background, and progressive policies in a closely divided state, emerges as a sleeper pick with potential to resonate with diverse voters and enhance the ticket's overall appeal.
Vice President Harris remains on a fast track to the 2024 Democratic nomination – a virtual vote could make it official as early as next week. That means she will need to pick her running mate very soon. We started to talk through some possible VP picks on Tuesday and now return to the studio to hear how Aaron Blake’s reporting and analysis have led him to zero in on seven options. He and Elahe Izadi dig further into what potential candidates would – and wouldn’t – bring to a Democratic ticket with Harris at the top.
Today’s show was produced and mixed by Rennie Svirnovskiy. It was edited by Renita Jablonski.
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