With Governor Beshear still being mentioned as a possible Democratic vice-presidential pick, the political race for the top job in U.S. government remains a hot topic. Pinning down a final decision in the Kamala Harris camp is still too tough to call.
Don Dugi has been in political science at Transylvania University for decades and is outspoken in his assessments. As to Governor Andy Beshear’s chances of being a Harris running mate, Dugi views Kentucky’s governor as a “lesser choice,” basing that on the Commonwealth’s non-swing state likelihood. As far as Harris’ rise to the top of the ticket pre political convention, Dugi said it’s an appropriate process.
“But the fact of the matter is all those delegates from the different states had voted for Biden to be the nominee..endorsed her as well, so she has the support of the delegates,” said Dugi.
Dugi does expect a state executive branch selection for VP over a congressional pick. He said that would put Democrat control of the Senate at risk.
The Transy political scientist doesn’t anticipate any flare up at the Democratic Convention. Dugi noted the need to be unified would outweigh any effort to consider a different nominee. He said Federal Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is maybe the most talented option for vice president, but his sexual orientation would still be an issue. Dugi said Harris has made progress in her race against Donald Trump, but it’s too soon to say if that will carry on to election day.
Eastern Kentucky University Department of Government Professor Anne Cizmar said Governor Beshear’s ability to talk to people of different voting blocks is an attractive trait. But Cizmar says helping to deliver a swing state is also key in considering other potential VP nominees. Whoever is finally selected will be asked to go after the opponent, but still within limits.
“It is a difficult balancing act, but I do think there are political candidates over time who are able to both sell their message and also point out the critiques of the other side without just reverting to completely negative campaigning,” said Cizmar
Cizmar said the role of the vice presidential candidate includes pushing a national message. The EKU professor of government does anticipate issues like the economy, immigration, abortion, and crime to be stressed, but not necessarily at a deep level. And Cizmar added it’s a wait-and-see when it comes to the possibility of a Harris-Trump debate before November.
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