Vice President Kamala Harris has reportedly reached out to Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) after he was chosen as former President Donald Trump’s running mate, leaving a message of congratulations. The campaign official mentioned that Harris has expressed her hope that the two can meet in the vice presidential debate proposed by CBS News. The Biden campaign has agreed to a debate hosted by CBS, scheduled for July 23 or August 13. Meanwhile, the Trump campaign has accepted an invite from Fox News for the vice presidential faceoff.
Harris previously told Politico of Trump’s VP search that he doesn’t want a governing partner but rather someone who is absolutely loyal to him over country or their oath of office, or the American people. She mentioned being ready to make her case against whoever Trump picks as his running mate.
Trump’s VP announcement comes amid concerns about President Joe Biden’s ability to complete his term. A recent CBS News/YouGov poll highlights potential concerns among voters about Biden’s age, decisions he might make in office, his record as president, and his ability to campaign effectively. Seventy-two percent of voters say Biden does not have the “mental” and “cognitive health” to serve, up from 65 percent since June 9.
The push to replace Biden atop the Democratic ticket intensified after his disastrous debate performance against Trump late last month. Some Democratic officials reportedly said corrupt Joe Biden should step aside as the nominee and give another Democrat a chance to run for president in 2024. That idea finds resonance with nearly half the nation’s rank-and-file Democrats.
Trump’s pick of Vance also comes around 48 hours after he was nearly assassinated at a rally in Butler, Pa., after a lone shooter managed to gain access to the roof of a building approximately 150 yards from Trump’s stage. One of the shooter’s bullets grazed Trump’s right ear, while one rallygoer behind him was killed and two more seriously wounded.
Trump expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he received after the assassination attempt and emphasized the importance of remaining united in the face of wickedness. He also mentioned looking forward to speaking at a Wisconsin rally later in the week.
