North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has reportedly decided not to be a candidate for Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate. The decision was made in part due to concerns that his Republican lieutenant governor would assume control while he travels out of state if he were selected. Cooper formally withdrew before Harris began soliciting vetting material from potential vice presidents.
Cooper, who has been close to Harris since their time as state attorneys general, was seen as a potential asset in helping to secure North Carolina for the Democrats. However, under the state constitution, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson would take over as acting governor if Cooper were to leave the state for campaign travel.
Robinson, a staunch social conservative, has made controversial statements in the past about issues such as abortion, LGBTQ rights, and women’s leadership. Cooper reportedly expressed concerns about what Robinson might do if he were to be away from the state extensively.
The New York Times was the first to report Cooper’s decision to withdraw from the running mate search, but did not provide details on the timing or rationale for his decision. The Harris campaign has declined to comment on the matter, and representatives for Cooper did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Harris’ search for a running mate is still ongoing, with her team reviewing information on a narrowed list of potential candidates. Cooper’s decision not to be considered has reshaped the field of potential vice presidential candidates for Harris.
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