VP Harris Set to Reveal Running Mate Before Philadelphia Rally

Vice President Kamala Harris is poised to announce her choice for a running mate prior to a campaign event in Philadelphia. This decision comes as the 2024 presidential race intensifies, marking the 60th quadrennial election in U.S. history.

Three prominent Democrats are reportedly under consideration for the vice presidential slot:

• Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, a former astronaut with four space shuttle missions to his credit
• Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, who previously served as the state's Attorney General
• Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, a former educator and Army National Guard veteran

The selection of a running mate is crucial, often aimed at balancing the ticket geographically or ideologically. Harris, who made history in 2021 as the first female, African American, and Asian American vice president, understands the significance of this choice.

Following the announcement, the Democratic ticket plans to embark on a tour of seven highly competitive states: Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada. These battleground states will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the election.

Meanwhile, the Republican ticket is not staying idle. JD Vance, the bestselling author of "Hillbilly Elegy" and running mate to former president Donald Trump, is scheduled to make an appearance in Philadelphia on the same day as Harris's rally.

Philadelphia, the largest city in Pennsylvania, holds particular importance as the state carries 19 electoral votes. The choice of this location for both campaigns underscores Pennsylvania's status as a key swing state.

As the campaign season progresses, voters can expect to see the vice presidential candidates participate in one debate, a tradition in the general election process. The official residence awaiting the next vice president is Number One Observatory Circle in Washington, D.C., where they will also fulfill their role as President of the Senate with the power to cast tie-breaking votes.

The upcoming Democratic National Convention, typically held in August, will officially nominate the party's ticket. As the race unfolds, both parties will be vying for the chance to occupy the White House, with the last vice president to be elected president being George H.W. Bush in 1988.