Kamala Harris launches a pivotal campaign tour as decision on running mate looms
PHILADELPHIA – US Vice President Kamala Harris, now the Democratic front-runner for the 2024 presidential election, will kick off her campaign with her new vice-presidential nominee on August 6. The rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, marks the start of a four-day tour through key battleground states including Michigan and Arizona, her campaign announced on July 30.
The selection of Philadelphia as the first stop signals the strategic importance of Pennsylvania, a state that played a decisive role in the Democrats’ 2020 victory. Among the shortlist of vice-presidential candidates, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has emerged as a strong contender, given his popularity and track record of winning tight elections in the state.
Anticipation Builds for VP Announcement
Harris is expected to reveal her running mate by August 5, ahead of an August 7 deadline set by the Democratic National Committee. The shortlist includes notable figures such as Shapiro, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
Shapiro’s inclusion is seen as a potential game-changer for Harris. The 51-year-old governor gained national recognition after a decisive victory in Pennsylvania’s gubernatorial race, where he secured over 56% of the vote. If chosen, Shapiro would become the second Jewish nominee for vice-president on a major party ticket, following Joe Lieberman’s 2000 campaign alongside Al Gore.
Tight Timeline, High Stakes
Unlike typical campaigns, where vice-presidential picks are vetted over several months, Harris has had to make her decision under a compressed timeline. The urgency stems from President Joe Biden’s recent announcement that he will not seek re-election, thrusting Harris into the lead role in the Democratic campaign.
Veteran political strategist and former attorney-general Eric Holder Jr. is overseeing the vetting process through his law firm, Covington & Burling. Meanwhile, the candidates have been actively showcasing their potential contributions to the Harris ticket through speeches and public appearances.
Shapiro praised Harris’s readiness for leadership during a rally in Philadelphia on July 29, stating, “She’s not only ready, she’s damned ready.” His remarks highlighted the high stakes of the upcoming election, which will once again hinge on the outcomes in critical swing states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has also drawn attention with his pointed criticism of the Republican ticket, branding them as “weird” and emphasizing the Democrats’ commitment to progress.
The announcement of Harris’s running mate is poised to shape the trajectory of the 2024 race, with the campaign aiming to consolidate support across the country.
