The field of candidates for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris’ running mate was narrowed down on Monday, with both North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer dropping out.
The momentous decision has come under scrutiny since President Joe Biden decided not to run for president and Vice President Harris emerged as the Democratic front-runner in November’s presidential election.
A vice presidential candidate can be used to balance a presidential candidate’s slate and appeal to a broader range of voters.
Cooper has withdrawn from the running to be Harris’ running mate, a person familiar with his plans told Reuters on Monday. The reason for the withdrawal was not immediately clear. The New York Times previously reported Cooper’s withdrawal.
Also on Monday, Governor Whitmer said on “CBS Mornings” that she was “not involved in the vetting process” for Harris’ running mate.
“I have told everyone, including the people of Michigan, that I intend to remain as Governor until the end of my term in 2026,” said Governor Whitmer.
In addition to Cooper and Whitmer, other candidates being mentioned include Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
