Was Buttigieg Harris's Ideal 2024 Running Mate, or Too Risky?

Former Vice President Kamala Harris revealed in her new book that she initially wanted to select Pete Buttigieg as her running mate during the 2020 presidential election. However, she felt that America wasn't prepared for such a diverse ticket. Harris expressed that while Buttigieg would have been an ideal partner, the combination of a woman, a Black woman, and a Jewish man was too significant a risk at the time.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Kamala Harris regarded Pete Buttigieg as her first choice for running mate.
• She believed America wasn't ready for a diverse ticket featuring a Black woman and a Jewish man.
• Harris ultimately selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate.
• The insights are part of her upcoming book, “107 Days,” set for release soon.
• Buttigieg's political rise began with his 2020 presidential campaign.

The Context Behind Harris's Decision

The decision-making process for selecting a running mate is critical in US presidential campaigns. It can significantly influence voter perceptions and, ultimately, election outcomes. In her book, Harris reflects on the challenges she faced as a woman of colour in a high-profile political position. She notes that the combination of identities—being a Black woman married to a Jewish man—was a considerable factor in her decision not to proceed with Buttigieg.

The Significance of Diversity in Political Campaigns

Diversity in political representation has gained increasing attention in recent years. Candidates often face scrutiny not only for their policies but also for their backgrounds. Harris's concern about the perception of a diverse ticket highlights the ongoing discussions around race, gender, and sexuality in politics.

Understanding the Risks

Harris's apprehension about pairing with Buttigieg stemmed from her understanding of the political landscape in 2020. She noted that while she believed they would have made a strong team, the potential backlash from voters could have jeopardised their chances of success. This reflects a broader trend in political strategy where candidates weigh the risk of pioneering new norms against the desire for electoral success.

Harris's Relationship with Pete Buttigieg

Harris describes her friendship with Buttigieg in positive terms, emphasising their mutual respect and admiration. She appreciated his qualities as a leader and acknowledged the strong working relationship they developed during their time in the political arena. However, both recognised the political realities facing them as they navigated their ambitions and identities.

The 2020 Election Landscape

The 2020 election was marked by unique challenges and a highly polarised political environment. Buttigieg's campaign had already made waves as he emerged as a notable figure during the Democratic primaries, notably finishing first in the Iowa caucuses. This success positioned him as a viable candidate for vice president, yet Harris ultimately chose a different path.

What Happened After the 2020 Election?

Following the election, the political landscape continued to evolve. After Joe Biden's presidency took shape, Harris found herself reflecting on the initial decisions made during the campaign. When Biden faced challenges that led to his withdrawal from the race in July 2024 after a poor debate performance, Harris took the reins of the Democratic ticket.

Choosing Tim Walz as Running Mate

As the leader of the Democratic ticket, Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, recognising his strong messaging against former President Donald Trump. Walz's quip about Trump and his then-running mate, JD Vance, resonated widely, showcasing his appeal. However, the pair ultimately lost the election, signalling the complexities of electoral strategy in a shifting political landscape.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Political Pairings

As the political landscape continues to evolve, discussions around diversity in political pairings will remain at the forefront. Harris's insights on her decision-making process offer a glimpse into the considerations that shape candidate selections. With potential 2028 contenders emerging, the dynamics of political pairings are likely to remain a critical topic of discussion.

Implications for Future Elections

Harris's reflections on her choices may influence future candidates as they consider their own running mates. The ongoing dialogue about diversity, representation, and electoral viability will shape how parties approach candidate selection moving forward. As America becomes more diverse, the question remains: how will political parties adapt to reflect this change?

Conclusion

Kamala Harris's candid revelations in her new book provide a valuable perspective on the complexities of political decision-making. Her considerations underscore the challenges of navigating identity and representation in a competitive electoral environment. As discussions around diversity in politics continue, the future of running mate selections will likely evolve to embrace a broader spectrum of identities.

What remains to be seen is how future candidates will learn from Harris's experiences and approach the intricacies of running mate selections. Will they take the leap towards more diverse pairings, or will caution continue to dictate their choices? #PoliticalDiversity #KamalaHarris #RunningMates

FAQs

Why did Kamala Harris not choose Pete Buttigieg as her running mate?

Kamala Harris felt that America was not ready for a diverse ticket comprising a Black woman and a Jewish man. She believed the risk was too significant, despite considering Buttigieg an ideal partner.

What does the title of Harris's book, "107 Days," refer to?

The title "107 Days" refers to the length of Harris's condensed presidential campaign before she transitioned to the vice presidential candidacy.

Who did Kamala Harris ultimately choose as her running mate?

Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate after Joe Biden withdrew from the 2024 presidential race following a poor debate performance.

What impact does diversity have on political campaigns?

Diversity can influence voter perceptions and electoral outcomes. Candidates often face scrutiny regarding their backgrounds, which can affect their appeal to different demographics.

How did Pete Buttigieg's campaign impact his political standing?

Buttigieg's strong performance in the 2020 Democratic primaries, particularly his success in the Iowa caucuses, established him as a significant political figure and a potential vice presidential candidate.