Amid growing support for Kamala Harris to become the Democratic presidential candidate, discussions are underway about the right choice for her running mate.

Discussions among friends and allies of Harris have centered on the idea of selecting a white man as her vice-presidential running mate, with prospective individuals including Govs. Andy Beshear of Kentucky, Roy Cooper of North Carolina, and Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, as the Telegraph reports.

Joe Biden's Gaffes Fuel Growing Support for Harris

Support for Harris has risen due to recent public missteps made by President Joe Biden and questions about his cognitive health.

Among the controversial moments were comments in which Biden claimed to be the first "Black woman to serve with a black president" and a confusing remark about traffic on highways.

A document titled, “Unburdened by What Has Been: The Case for Kamala” has circulated among Democratic operatives. This paper argues for Harris to assume the role of the Democratic nominee if Biden steps aside.

Jim Clyburn and Support for Harris

Influential black Democratic Rep. Jim Clyburn has voiced his support for Harris in the event Biden steps down. Harris's donors and supporters are now engaged in discussions about potential vice-presidential candidates, with a particular focus on white male governors.

Beshear, the governor of Kentucky, has been recognized for his leadership during the 2021 flooding in the state. Operating in a Republican-leaning state, Beshear has gained national attention for his effective response during the crisis.

Key Vice-Presidential Candidates Considered

Cooper, the governor of North Carolina, is seen as a moderate leader in another red state, which could appeal broadly to voters.

Similarly, Shapiro, current governor of Pennsylvania, is known for securing a $1 billion opioid settlement during his term as attorney general and has a significant influence in a crucial battleground state.

Despite her tenure as vice president, Harris has encountered criticism and faced low poll ratings. However, recent polling data suggests she would perform better against Donald Trump compared to other potential Democratic candidates.

Poll Reflects Harris’s Edge Over Trump

Amid these considerations, California Gov. Gavin Newsom has also been mentioned as a possible replacement for Harris. Nevertheless, Newsom's vulnerabilities due to issues within California make his case less compelling to some observers.

Harris holds a strategic advantage with access to the Biden campaign’s $240 million war chest. Strongly polling among women voters, Harris's stance on abortion remains a significant aspect of her appeal.

Strategically Choosing a Running Mate

Notably younger than Donald Trump by a margin of 19 years, Harris's age may resonate with younger voters. Additionally, her popularity among independents and moderates enhances her broader electoral appeal.

Christopher Galdieri, a professor of politics, has suggested Harris would likely opt for a moderate white male VP. This strategy would benefit her in key states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Galdieri noted, "Traditionally running mates are picked with an eye toward offsetting a nominee’s weak spots and unifying the party after a nomination battle."

Trump Campaign’s Strategy Against Harris

Meanwhile, Trump's campaign has targeted Harris with derisive nicknames such as "Laffin’ Kamala Harris" and "Cackling Copilot Kamala Harris," signaling a focus on undermining her credibility.

As the discussions continue, it remains essential for Harris to address the critiques of her vice-presidential term while harnessing the support base that aligns with her strategic vision. Should Harris be selected as the Democratic nominee, her choice of a vice-presidential candidate will be crucial in fortifying her position against the GOP challenger.

In conclusion, the Democratic electorate is weighing the merits of a Harris-led ticket, with strong considerations for a balanced and strategic vice-presidential selection. Allies supporting Harris suggest a white male VP could enhance her overall candidacy by appealing to a broad range of voters in key states.

As Biden's public gaffes and failings increasingly prompt discussions, the Democratic Party remains focused on positioning itself advantageously for the upcoming election cycle.