The Quiet Bond Kamala Harris Forged With 3 VP Contenders
When President Joe Biden introduced Kamala Harris as his running mate four years ago, he shared a poignant origin story. He recounted how he first learned of her through his son Beau, who served alongside her as California's attorney general. Biden noted, “I know how much Beau respected Kamala and her work,” emphasizing the significance of that connection in his decision-making process. Now, as Vice President Harris contemplates her own running mate, the political landscape is shifting, and her law enforcement background is coming to the forefront. The upcoming race against former President Donald Trump is framed as a stark choice between a prosecutor and a felon, and the path to the Democratic ticket may once again lead through a cadre of ambitious former attorneys general who rose alongside her.
Among the most serious contenders for the vice-presidential nomination are three governors: Roy Cooper of North Carolina, Andy Beshear of Kentucky, and Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania. Each of these men has a unique relationship with Harris, shaped by their shared experiences as attorneys general. Interviews with colleagues and associates reveal insights into these relationships and what each contender could bring to the ticket—whether it be seasoned leadership, political strength in critical battleground states, or appeal in conservative regions.
The Wobbly Arrival of a ‘Rising Star’
Harris's journey began with a narrow victory in her 2010 race for California attorney general. Initially seen as vulnerable, she quickly established herself as a formidable force. Her tenure was marked by challenges, including a rocky relationship with some law enforcement factions due to her progressive stances. However, her reputation as a rising star was solidified through her participation in national attorney general meetings and her role in significant multistate litigations, including a landmark mortgage settlement.
A Solid Relationship with Roy Cooper
Of the three contenders, Roy Cooper has the longest history with Harris. Their professional paths crossed frequently, and they developed a working relationship characterized by mutual respect. Cooper's calm demeanor and effective coalition-building skills complement Harris's more dynamic approach. His ability to navigate challenging political landscapes, particularly in North Carolina, positions him as a valuable asset for Harris's campaign.
The ‘Skill and Toughness’ of Josh Shapiro
Josh Shapiro and Harris have known each other for years, having both been recognized as rising stars in their respective roles. Shapiro's tenure as Pennsylvania's attorney general was marked by significant achievements, including high-profile investigations and a strong coalition-building strategy. His ability to connect with voters in a battleground state, coupled with his favorable approval ratings, makes him a compelling choice for Harris as she seeks to solidify her support in Pennsylvania.
Red-State Appeal From Andy Beshear
Andy Beshear, the two-term Democratic governor of Kentucky, offers a unique perspective as a leader in a deeply conservative state. His popularity among voters and ability to connect with those who feel alienated from the national party could provide Harris with the necessary appeal to broaden her base. Their shared experiences as attorneys general create a bond that could translate into a strong partnership on the campaign trail.
As Harris navigates the complexities of selecting a running mate, the relationships she has forged with these three contenders will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping her campaign strategy. Each candidate brings distinct strengths that could enhance the Democratic ticket, offering a blend of experience, regional appeal, and political acumen. The quiet bonds formed through their shared journeys in law enforcement may ultimately prove to be a significant asset as they face the challenges ahead in the 2024 election.