Kamala's Choice: 10 Democrats Who Could Be Her 2024 VP Nominee

President Biden's exit from the 2024 race has propelled Vice President Kamala Harris to the forefront as the probable Democratic nominee. With time pressing, Harris must now choose a running mate, sparking intense speculation among political analysts. Given the urgency, she's likely to consider well-known Democrats with national profiles.

Here are ten potential contenders for the vice presidential slot: Andrew Craft / USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY NETWORK

Pete Buttigieg

As Transportation Secretary, Pete Buttigieg has maintained a high profile since his breakout performance in the 2020 Democratic primaries. Known for his sharp intellect and articulate speaking style, Buttigieg could bring youth and energy to the ticket. His Midwest roots and military background could appeal to crucial swing state voters. However, his relative lack of executive experience might be a concern. Buttigieg's ability to communicate complex policies in accessible terms could be an asset on the campaign trail. His selection would also make history as the first openly gay vice presidential nominee on a major party ticket, potentially energizing LGBTQ+ voters and allies. Cody Scanlan/Holland Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

Elizabeth Warren

Senator Elizabeth Warren's selection would signal a decidedly progressive direction for the ticket. Her detailed policy proposals and ability to explain complex issues could be assets in debates and on the campaign trail. Warren's strong support among educated, liberal voters could help shore up enthusiasm in key demographics. However, her left-leaning positions might be seen as a liability in more conservative swing states. Warren's age (she would be 75 at inauguration) could undermine efforts to present a youth-oriented ticket. Her past clashes with Harris during the 2020 primaries might raise questions about their ability to work as a team. Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America / Wikimedia

Gretchen Whitmer

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer brings battleground state credentials and executive experience to the table. Her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and high-profile clashes with former President Trump have made her a national figure. Whitmer's ability to win in Michigan, a critical swing state, could be invaluable. Her focus on infrastructure and manufacturing aligns well with key Democratic priorities. However, Whitmer has also faced intense criticism from conservatives, particularly over her pandemic policies. Her selection might energize Republican opposition. Balancing her appeal to moderates with the expectations of progressives could be a challenge for the campaign. Ryan Garza / USA TODAY NETWORK

Gavin Newsom

California Governor Gavin Newsom has long been seen as a potential presidential contender. His experience leading the nation's most populous state and his high-profile battles with Republican governors could make him an attractive choice. Newsom's telegenic presence and fundraising prowess would be valuable assets. However, the constitutional issue of both Harris and Newsom being from California presents a significant hurdle. One of them would need to change their official residence to avoid losing California's crucial 54 electoral votes. Additionally, Newsom's association with liberal California politics might be a liability in more conservative swing states. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK

JB Pritzker

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker's vast personal wealth could be a significant asset to the campaign, potentially offsetting Republican fundraising advantages. His business background and executive experience governing a large state are strong selling points. Pritzker has taken on high-profile progressive causes, which could energize the Democratic base. However, his billionaire status might sit uncomfortably with voters concerned about wealth inequality. Pritzker's national name recognition is relatively low outside of political circles. His ties to Chicago politics could be used by opponents to raise concerns about corruption, even if unfounded. Thomas J. Turney/The State Journal-Register / USA TODAY NETWORK

Andy Beshear

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear offers a unique profile as a Democrat who has found success in a deep-red state. His ability to win elections in Kentucky could signal broader appeal to moderate and conservative voters. Beshear's focus on kitchen-table issues and his handling of natural disasters have earned him high approval ratings. His selection could help the ticket make inroads in traditionally Republican areas. However, Beshear's national profile is relatively low, and he might face a steep learning curve on federal and international issues. His more moderate positioning could also potentially disappoint progressive Democrats looking for a more liberal ticket. Michael Clevenger/Courier Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Josh Shapiro

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's rising star status and his state's crucial role in presidential elections make him an intriguing choice. His landslide victory in the 2022 gubernatorial race demonstrated broad appeal. Shapiro's handling of the I-95 bridge collapse showcased his crisis management skills. His background as Attorney General could be an asset in discussions of justice reform. However, Shapiro is relatively new to the national stage and might face questions about his readiness for federal office. His moderate positioning on some issues could disappoint progressive voters looking for a more left-leaning ticket. Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Roy Cooper

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper's success in a swing state that has trended Republican in recent presidential elections could make him an attractive choice. His term-limited status means he would be free to campaign full-time. Cooper's experience navigating a politically divided state government could be seen as valuable in a polarized national environment. However, his lower national profile might require significant introduction to voters outside the Southeast. Cooper's more centrist approach on some issues could potentially dampen enthusiasm among the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

Wes Moore

Maryland Governor Wes Moore's compelling personal story as a combat veteran and Rhodes Scholar could make him an exciting choice. His handling of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse raised his national profile. As a young, charismatic African American leader, Moore could energize key Democratic constituencies. However, his relative lack of political experience might be seen as a liability. Moore is still establishing his record as governor, which could leave him vulnerable to criticism about his readiness for national office. His progressive stances might play well with the Democratic base but could be challenging in swing states. Jasper Colt / USA TODAY NETWORK

Amy Klobuchar

Senator Amy Klobuchar's Midwest roots and moderate positioning could appeal to swing voters in crucial battleground states. Her strong debate performances and quick wit could be valuable on the campaign trail. Klobuchar's legislative experience and reputation for bipartisanship might resonate with voters tired of political gridlock. However, her centrist stances on some issues could disappoint progressive Democrats looking for a more liberal ticket. Klobuchar's management style came under scrutiny during her 2020 presidential run, which could resurface. Her lower name recognition compared to some other potential picks might require more effort to introduce her to a national audience. Jack Gruber / USA TODAY NETWORK

Light Wave

Kamala’s Choice: 10 Democrats Who Could Be Her 2024 VP Nominee