Kentucky Governor Leads Charge Against Vance for Harris Campaign
By Jake Beardslee ·
July 25, 2024
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has emerged as a vocal critic of Senator JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential nominee, as speculation grows about potential running mates for Vice President Kamala Harris. Jeff Faughender/Courier Journal & USA Today Network / USA TODAY NETWORK
Beshear, a Democrat, has been targeting Vance, calling him a "phony" and claiming he's not a true representative of Appalachia. The governor stated on MSNBC, "I want the American people to know what a Kentuckian is and what they look like, because let me just tell you that JD Vance ain't from here." Cara Owsley/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK
Vance retaliated, according to Politico, describing Beshear's comments as "very weird" and suggesting that the Kentucky governor "inherited the governorship from his father." Cara Owsley/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK
The exchange highlights the growing rivalry between the two politicians from neighboring states, both vying to represent the Appalachian region's interests. David Rodriguez Munoz / USA TODAY NETWORK
Beshear's national profile has risen following his recent reelection, and he's now considered a potential vice presidential candidate for the Democratic ticket. His popularity in Kentucky, a traditionally Republican state, could make him an attractive choice for Harris. Matt Stone/Courier Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK
However, political analysts are divided on whether Beshear would be selected over candidates from battleground states. The timeline for Harris to make her decision is tight, with the Democratic convention approaching in a month. Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK
Democratic strategist Antjuan Seawright commented on the urgency of the decision, saying, according to The Hill, "Momentum is on our side when it comes to our vice presidential nominee. However, for the sake of continuing to build and expand on our coalition, I think the sooner she makes a decision, I think the better." Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK
