Vice-President Kamala Harris is in the midst of an intense search for her running mate as she gears up for a battleground tour next week. Potential contenders, including Governor Josh Shapiro, Senator Mark Kelly, and Governor Tim Walz, are set to meet with Ms. Harris in Washington, DC, to discuss their candidacy.
The Democratic vice-presidential choices have been narrowed down to a group of five, with a decision expected before the Democratic National Convention in August. Among the potential candidates, Governor Shapiro is seen as a strong contender due to his high approval ratings and potential to help Ms. Harris secure Pennsylvania, a crucial state in the presidential race.
Senator Mark Kelly, known for his background as a Navy pilot and Nasa astronaut, could appeal to independent and conservative voters with his strong stance on gun safety and border issues. Governor Walz, who gained national attention for his strategy calling out prominent figures, could also be a valuable addition to the ticket.
As Ms. Harris continues her search, a new CBS News poll shows her holding a slight edge over her Republican rival, Donald Trump, nationally. The poll indicates a tight race in battleground states, with Ms. Harris energizing the Democratic base and attracting support from young, black, and female voters.
However, Ms. Harris has faced criticism from Trump and his allies regarding her racial identity. Trump’s comments questioning Ms. Harris’ heritage have been condemned as “despicable” and “an insult” by Democratic Senator Laphonza Butler. Senator Lindsey Graham advised Trump to focus on policy decisions rather than personal attacks.
Despite the controversy, Ms. Harris remains focused on selecting a running mate who will complement her strengths and help secure victory in the upcoming election. The decision is eagerly awaited by supporters and political observers alike as the race for the White House heats up.
