News

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper Withdraws from Consideration as Kamala Harris’ VP Pick

Published

5 months ago

July 30, 2024

Cooper had been considered a top contender to be Harris’ running mate in recent days. AP

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has announced he will not pursue the vice presidential nomination alongside Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 election.

Cooper, currently in his second term, confirmed his decision on Monday, removing himself from a list of potential candidates.

N.C. Governor Roy Cooper speaking at a press conference, being considered as potential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024 election

In recent days, Cooper had been considered a top contender to be Harris’ running mate. AP

In a statement posted on X, Cooper expressed his strong support for Harris’ presidential campaign and confidence in her victory. “I was honoured to be considered for this role,” he wrote, adding, “This just wasn’t the right time for North Carolina and for me to potentially be on a national ticket.”

Vice President Kamala Harris delivering remarks at a campaign event in Pittsfield, Mass., standing at a podium with microphones, July 27, 2024.

Kamala Harris is likely to be the Democratic presidential nominee. AP

Cooper, 67, reportedly declined the Harris campaign’s invitation to undergo vetting, citing concerns about the process and his age. Additionally, there were concerns among North Carolina Democrats about the implications of a potential absence from his gubernatorial duties, given that Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson would assume his responsibilities in his absence.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addresses the VFW National Convention in Louisville, Kentucky, Monday, July 29, 2024.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear is a potential vice presidential candidate for Harris to choose from. Michael Clevenger/Courier Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK

Other prominent figures still running for Harris’ vice presidential nomination include Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, though supportive of Harris, has also indicated she is not interested in the VP role.

United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg speaks during a television interview at the White House in Washington, DC.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is viewed as another candidate for Harris’s vice presidential pick. Chris Kleponis / Pool via CNP / SplashNews.com

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz speaks at a Biden-Harris campaign and DNC press conference on July 17, 2024 at venue name in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Sen. Mark Kelly delivers his victory speech at Barrio Cafe on Nov. 12, 2022, in Phoenix.

Cooper, who first assumed office in 2017 and is ineligible for a third term, has been a significant figure in North Carolina politics. His decision opens the field for other contenders as Harris prepares for a challenging 2024 race against former President Donald Trump, who won North Carolina in 2016 and 2020.