In a recent poll, we asked Americans which potential vice presidential pick for Kamala Harris they believe would be the most formidable in a general election against Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. The results are in, and they paint an interesting picture of the current political landscape.
The Leading Contenders
1. Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly (27%): Leading the pack with a solid 27% is Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. Known for his relatively moderate stance and military background, Kelly seems to be the favored choice among those surveyed. His experience as an astronaut and success appealing to independent voters in a center-right state make him a strong candidate in the eyes of many.
After our original article was published, controversy has arisen concerning Kelly’s role as the co-founder of World View, a company that was originally focused on space tourism. Soon after its founding, the company received venture capital from Tencent in 2013, and again in 2016. Tencent is one of China’s largest corporations, and its social media app is the dominant social media platform in China. It has been reported that Tencent’s app, WeChat, has been used as a powerful surveillance tool for the Chinese government.
2. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (18%): Coming in second with 18% is Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Shapiro has been a rising star in the Democratic Party, known for his progressive policies and strong stance on health care and education. His leadership in a key battleground state adds to his appeal.
Shapiro was one of the few Democrats to win statewide in 2016 as a candidate for attorney general. In 2020, he received more votes than President Joe Biden. According to the latest Bloomberg/Morning Consult poll, Kamala Harris is either neck-and-neck or leading in most swing states, except Pennsylvania, where Trump has a 4-point edge. Shapiro could potentially have a significant impact, although it’s possible that his Jewish background could dampen enthusiasm among progressives who identify as anti-Zionist.
3. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg (13%): At 13%, Pete Buttigieg, the current Transportation Secretary, ranks third. Buttigieg, a former mayor and a veteran, has gained national attention for his articulate communication skills and policy knowledge. However, his lack of experience in higher offices might be a point of concern for some voters.
Buttigieg also faced criticism for his handling of the supply chain crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was responsible for overseeing the nation’s transportation systems, which were significantly impacted during the pandemic.
4. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (11%): Tied with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear at 11%, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is known for her decisive, albeit controversial; leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whitmer’s bipartisan focus on infrastructure and health care resonates with many Michigan voters.
Whitmer’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic included several controversial measures that sparked significant debate and backlash from various groups, including one of the nation’s most stringent stay-at-home orders, which included the closure of businesses, schools and nonessential services. The initial stay-at-home order prohibited motorized boating but allowed kayaking and canoeing. This inconsistency drew criticism and was perceived as arbitrary, leading to accusations of government overreach. The executive order also included measures that restricted large retail stores from selling certain nonessential items, such as gardening supplies and paint. This led to confusion and frustration among consumers and retailers.
In October 2020, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled that Whitmer had overstepped her authority by continuing to issue executive orders related to COVID-19 without legislative approval.
5. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear (11%): Also at 11%, Governor Andy Beshear of Kentucky is recognized for his bipartisan approach and effective governance in a dark red state. His ability to connect with conservative voters could be an asset in a general election.
Although Kentucky elected Beshear in 2019, Republicans dominant other statewide offices and the state legislature. Moreover, Kentucky is all but guaranteed to remain a Republican stronghold in the 2024 presidential election. The state’s decisive support for Donald Trump in the 2016 and 2020 elections, combined with its culturally conservative leanings, place it in the solid Republican column.
6. California Gov. Gavin Newsom (10%): Just behind at 10% is California Governor Gavin Newsom. Known for his progressive policies and leadership in the most populous state, Newsom’s national recognition is high, but his progressive stances might alienate moderate voters.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker (6%): At 6%, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has made a name for himself with his economic policies and pandemic response. However, his lower ranking and the fact that Illinois is already in the solid Democrat column suggests that he’s not the strongest contender on a national level.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper (3%): Bringing up the rear with 3% is North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. Cooper’s moderate stances and focus on health care have won him support in his GOP-leaning home state, but his national appeal seems limited.
Cooper appeared to see the writing on the wall and withdrew his name from Harris’ VP shortlist on Monday night.
So, what do you think about the Harris veepstakes? Let your voice be heard and let us know if you’d like more polling content like this!
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