Kamala Harris’ top VP running mate options for 2024

Aug 01, 2024

Jordan Reid Author; Founding Editor, Ramshackle Glam

By Straight Arrow News

Kamala Harris already has enough promised delegates to win the Democratic nomination at the upcoming Democratic National Convention (DNC). She has received key endorsements from former presidents Biden, Obama and Clinton and raised record funds after Biden announced his intention to withdraw from the race. But while Harris’ nomination seems almost guaranteed, she has yet to select a running mate.

Watch the above video as Straight Arrow News contributor Jordan Reid reviews the pros and cons of some of the leading contenders for a vice-presidential position on the Democratic ticket.

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The following is an excerpt from the above video:

First up, we have Mayor Pete. At 42, Pete Buttigieg represents a younger generation, which could appeal to millennial and Gen Z voters. As the secretary of transportation and former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, he has administrative and executive experience. And as an openly gay politician, Buttigieg’s presence on the ticket could reinforce the Democratic Party’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Nice! That said, people seem to view him as a tiny child dressed up in his dad’s clothing, which I find reductive and demeaning, but it’s still a thing. Also, he might struggle to attract more conservative or moderate demographics.

Now, Mark Kelly. He’s a white man! People are going to say that’s essential. It’s not. But he is a strong leader with a positive public image who’s demonstrated remarkable commitment to public service over the years. And he’s a representative of Arizona, a key swing state. And he was an astronaut! Cool! I like this for her.

Next, Stacey Abrams. Oh, God, can you imagine a Harris-Abrams ticket? Talk about your strong woman energy. Abrams is a leading voice in voting rights and has been credited with significantly increasing voter turnout in Georgia. She has extensive political experience, including her work as minority leader in the Georgia House of Representatives. But she has never held an executive office, and her strong stance on voting rights and other issues may polarize voters, making it harder to appeal to centrists and conservatives.

Then there’s Cory Booker, who’s known for his compelling public speaking and ability to connect with voters. As a U.S. senator, he has substantial legislative experience and a record of working on criminal justice reform. And yet his previous presidential campaign did not gain significant traction, raising questions about his broader appeal.

Alright, now that we’re all buzzing with excitement about the potential of a Madam President – it is WILD how quickly basically everyone got on board with Kamala, but I am so here for it – let’s turn our attention to the JD Vance-ness of it all. By which I mean, whoever she picks as her VP…it’s not JD Vance. And that is good. My handmaid’s tale outfit is at the cleaner’s right now, and it was never very flattering in the first place; I’m not super eager to throw that one on.

OK. VPs. First up, we have Mayor Pete.

At 42, Pete Buttigieg represents a younger generation, which could appeal to millennial and Gen Z voters. As the Secretary of Transportation and former Mayor of South Bend, Indiana, he has administrative and executive experience. And as an openly gay politician, Buttigieg’s presence on the ticket could reinforce the Democratic Party’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Nice! That said, people seem to view him as a tiny child dressed up in his dad’s clothing, which I find reductive and demeaning, but it’s still a thing. Also, he might struggle to attract more conservative or moderate demographics.

Now, Mark Kelly. He’s a white man! People are going to say that’s essential! (It’s not.) But he is a strong leader with a positive public image who’s demonstrated remarkable commitment to public service over the years. And he’s a representative of Arizona, a key swing state. And he was an astronaut! Cool. I like this for her.

Next, Stacey Abrams. Oh, god, can you imagine a Harris/Abrams ticket? Talk about your strong woman energy. Abrams is a leading voice in voting rights and has been credited with significantly increasing voter turnout in Georgia. She has extensive political experience, including her work as Minority Leader in the Georgia House of Representatives.

But she has never held an executive office, and her strong stance on voting rights and other issues may polarize voters, making it harder to appeal to centrists and conservatives.

Then there’s Cory Booker, who’s known for his compelling public speaking and ability to connect with voters. As a U.S. Senator, he has substantial legislative experience and a record of working on criminal justice reform. And yet his previous presidential campaign did not gain significant traction, raising questions about his broader appeal.

I’m giving the no to Elizabeth Warren, because as sharp and progressive as she is, I truly think this is a pass-the-torch-to-the-younger-generation moment. Sidenote: I am 43, and never have I ever felt more adorably youthful than I do reading about how Kamala is basically a toddler at 52.

Obviously, Kamala Harris’ VP pick will be critical in shaping her campaign and potential administration. From the names that have been floated, I truly see advantages to them all. And none of them think women who elect not to have children are sad cat ladies. Winning.

No, but seriously: Let’s win this.