Democrats are buzzing with excitement over Vice President Kamala Harris’s role in the upcoming election, highlighting the party’s emerging and formidable lineup that could shape its future beyond 2024. The discussion around potential running mates for Harris has spotlighted rising stars such as Sen. Mark Kelly, Gov. Gavin Newsom, and Gov. Josh Shapiro, injecting fresh energy into the party.
Tim Hogan, a Democratic strategist, notes that the selection process reveals the party’s strong depth, including governors, senators, and other elected officials, which is both exciting and energizing for Democrats. Hogan emphasizes that the enthusiasm stems from the highly qualified candidates available, offering an abundance of options for Harris.
Political science professor Larry Jacobs suggests that Biden’s withdrawal from the race has opened the door for a new generation of Democratic leaders, with Harris at the forefront. This shift has relieved concerns over a Trump-Biden rematch and has rekindled interest in the party among younger voters and voters of color.
The conversation about who might join Harris on the ticket has also propelled top Biden surrogates and lesser-known Democrats into the national spotlight. Governors like Andy Beshear and Tim Walz have gained attention for their vigorous defense of Harris and creative branding against Trump.
Democratic strategist Abou Amara views this process as a unique opportunity for voters to become acquainted with the next wave of Democratic leaders, fostering a healthier dialogue about the party’s future. This excitement is building optimism not only for the current election but also for the party’s prospects in future cycles.