North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has withdrawn from consideration to be the running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming Democratic presidential election. Reports from The New York Times and CNN, citing unnamed sources, confirmed that Harris’s team has narrowed its focus to three potential candidates: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.
In a statement on social media, Cooper confirmed his decision to withdraw but did not directly address the vice-presidential pick. Instead, he criticized Lt. Governor Mark Robinson, a Republican candidate for governor, for his disrespectful comments towards women. Cooper highlighted the importance of electing a strong woman like Harris, who cares about pocketbook issues and urged supporters to work towards her presidency.
Cooper was considered a strong contender for the running mate slot due to his popularity as a Democratic governor in a battleground state that typically votes Republican in recent presidential elections. However, at 67 years old, some observers noted that Cooper’s age and lack of oratory skills may have been potential liabilities. Additionally, North Carolina law designates the Lt. Governor as the “acting governor” when the real governor is out of state, which could pose challenges given Robinson’s status as the Republican nominee for governor in the fall.
Despite his withdrawal, Cooper’s longstanding relationship with Harris and his popularity in North Carolina were seen as valuable assets. The decision to step back from consideration comes as Harris’s team finalizes its selection process for a running mate.
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