Did Harris Almost Choose Buttigieg as Her VP but Fear America's Readiness?

In her forthcoming memoir "107 Days," former Vice President Kamala Harris reveals that she initially considered Pete Buttigieg as her ideal running mate but ultimately chose not to select him due to concerns over voter acceptance. Harris indicated that having both a woman of colour and a gay man on the ticket would be a significant challenge for American voters. This decision underscores the complexities of identity politics in the United States, particularly within the Democratic Party.

Last updated: 23 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Kamala Harris initially favoured Pete Buttigieg as her running mate.
• Concerns over voter acceptance influenced her final decision.
• Harris ultimately chose Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate.
• Harris's memoir, "107 Days," details her presidential campaign experience.
• Political dynamics and identity politics are central themes in the narrative.

Background on the Memoir

Kamala Harris's memoir, "107 Days," is set for release on 23 September 2023. Within its pages, she recounts her journey through the 2020 presidential election, including the pivotal moments leading to her decision-making process regarding her running mate. The title refers to the intense 107 days of campaigning she undertook after Joe Biden withdrew from the race, which adds a layer of urgency and reflection to her narrative.

The Decision-Making Process

In her reflections, Harris shared that Buttigieg was among her top eight choices for vice president. She acknowledged his exceptional debating skills and public service dedication, calling him a "sincere public servant." However, she felt that choosing Buttigieg would complicate her candidacy as a woman of colour in a political landscape that had never before seen such a pairing.

Identity Politics at Play

Harris expressed the complexity of her position as a Black woman in a predominantly white political arena. Citing her own identity and the challenges associated with it, she stated, "But we were already asking a lot of America: to accept a woman, a Black woman, a Black woman married to a Jewish man." This remark highlights the multifaceted intersectionality that plays a critical role in American politics and voter perception.

Why Tim Walz?

Ultimately, Harris's choice fell on Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, a straight, white male candidate. By choosing Walz, Harris aimed to mitigate the risks associated with her dual identity as a woman of colour and a progressive candidate. She weighed the political landscape and the potential backlash against a more diverse ticket, deciding that a safer choice would resonate more effectively with voters.

Buttigieg's Role in the Campaign

Despite not being selected as her running mate, Buttigieg remained a valuable ally. He played a role in Harris’s preparations for her 2020 debate against Vice President Mike Pence and later assisted Walz in his debate against Republican candidate JD Vance. This collaboration reflects the camaraderie and shared objectives within the Democratic Party, even amid competitive dynamics.

Political Implications

The decision to select Walz over Buttigieg had significant implications for Harris’s campaign. While she aimed to appeal to a broader electorate, the choice ultimately did not translate into electoral success. Harris and Walz lost the presidential election, failing to secure crucial battleground states against Donald Trump and Vance.

Future Aspirations

In the wake of the 2024 election loss, speculation surrounds Harris's political future. In July 2023, she announced she would not seek a run for California's governorship in 2026, leading many political analysts to suggest she may be positioning herself for another bid for the presidency. Harris’s reflections in "107 Days" may serve as a platform to re-establish her political narrative and intentions moving forward.

Conclusion

Kamala Harris's memoir not only chronicles her experiences in the 2020 election but also sheds light on the complexities of identity in American politics. Her initial admiration for Pete Buttigieg and the final decision to select a more traditional candidate illustrate the intricate balance candidates must navigate when appealing to a diverse electorate. As Harris contemplates her next steps, the themes of acceptance, identity, and political strategy remain pertinent to understanding the evolving dynamics within the Democratic Party.

FAQs

What is the main theme of Kamala Harris's memoir "107 Days"?

The main theme of Kamala Harris's memoir revolves around her experiences during the 2020 presidential campaign, focusing on the challenges of identity politics and decision-making in selecting a running mate.

Why did Kamala Harris choose Tim Walz as her running mate?

Kamala Harris chose Tim Walz to appeal to a broader electorate while mitigating risks associated with her identity as a Black woman and the complexities of having a gay man on the ticket.

What role did Pete Buttigieg play in Harris's campaign?

Pete Buttigieg assisted Kamala Harris in preparing for her debates during the 2020 election and was a valued ally during her campaign, despite not being selected as her running mate.

What are the implications of identity politics in Harris's narrative?

Identity politics play a crucial role in Harris's narrative, highlighting the challenges faced by candidates of diverse backgrounds in gaining acceptance from a broad electorate.

What are the future prospects for Kamala Harris after her election loss?

Following her election loss, speculation suggests that Kamala Harris may be positioning herself for another presidential run, having announced she would not seek the California governorship in 2026.