Despite Realizing It's Unlikely, Pete Buttigieg’s VP Stock Is on the Rise
While he has faced criticism in his position within the Biden administration, some advisers to Harris find his proposition compelling.
TroibNews 
Pete Buttigieg, the Transportation Secretary, is making a notable presence in the media, showcasing his Midwest charm while critiquing Donald Trump and JD Vance. He's garnering attention from Congress members, and his digital alumni network is promoting his strengths alongside Kamala Harris. Over the weekend, Buttigieg launched a canvassing event for Harris in Traverse City, Michigan. Additionally, an Indiana ally has independently compiled a dossier on Harris, concluding that "the vibes are high right now."
There's growing speculation that Buttigieg is eyeing the vice-presidential slot. An insider notes, "He’s open to it." However, Harris allies are skeptical, believing she might favor a running mate from outside Washington who could secure key states better. One confidant remarked, “I just don’t see it.”
Even Buttigieg’s supporters acknowledge the odds are against him. Both he and Harris bring similar experiences from their time in the Biden administration and thus don't represent substantial change. Buttigieg has faced challenges as transportation secretary, including significant travel disruptions, despite achieving consumer protections and fines against airlines. Furthermore, some Democrats worry a ticket featuring a woman and a gay man might be seen as too progressive for swing voters.
An insider admits, “We all realize it’s unlikely.” Nonetheless, some Harris advisers find Buttigieg, who is 42, interesting for a campaign focused on generational change. His thorough vetting as a Senate-confirmed Cabinet member could make him appealing in a time-constrained selection process. His wide-ranging travel as transportation secretary — visiting 49 states — enhances his visibility.
Buttigieg’s public profile is rising, supported by endorsements from figures like Rep. James Clyburn of South Carolina and successful media appearances. He leads in at least one poll of potential candidates and is scheduled for an official tour across Michigan and Wisconsin, just as the vice-presidential selection heats up.
Despite their less-than-close relationship, Harris and Buttigieg share some personal connections. An example is the rapport between their spouses, Doug Emhoff and Chasten Buttigieg, who are co-hosting a fundraiser soon. Rachel Palermo, a former staffer for both Harris and Buttigieg, believes they both symbolize the Democratic Party’s future.
Supporters of a Harris-Buttigieg ticket argue it would amplify Harris’ groundbreaking background with Buttigieg’s diverse appeal, military experience, and Midwestern roots. Buttigieg’s on-camera skills could complement Harris, especially given some of her previous challenges in TV interviews.
Endorsements from past Buttigieg backers, including three mayors who previously supported his presidential campaign, add weight to his candidacy. His ability to engage with both Democratic and some Republican lawmakers through bipartisan infrastructure projects enhances his appeal.
Harris has centered her campaign on freedom, a theme Buttigieg also emphasized. His upcoming tours in battleground states could further validate his capability as a vice-presidential contender. Notable figures like Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Rep. Don Beyer have expressed support for him as a running mate.
The Democratic Party is expected to finalize the running mate selection through a roll-call vote by August 7, suggesting an expedited vetting process which could benefit Buttigieg. His extensive vetting history as a former presidential candidate and current Cabinet member supports this.
A history of competition for resources in the 2019 presidential primary between Harris and Buttigieg still lingers, with Buttigieg previously attracting some of Harris' financial backers. Harris had once questioned Buttigieg’s appeal but respected his comfort and relatable image.
Maintaining party unity is a priority for the Harris campaign, with aides avoiding public endorsements and allowing speculation around potential picks. Other candidates, like Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, have publicly ruled themselves out, while others like North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper have logistical and strategic obstacles.
Additional contenders mentioned include Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. Gov. Shapiro is seen as closely aligned with Buttigieg in terms of age and preparedness.
Kevin Munoz, a Harris campaign spokesperson, confirmed that the vetting process for potential running mates has started, with no updates expected until the final decision.
Buttigieg expressed his view on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, saying, "I think anybody would be flattered to be mentioned in that context — I certainly am," but emphasized that he had no further comments on the selection process.
Daniella Diaz contributed to this report.
Thomas Evans contributed to this report for TROIB News
There's growing speculation that Buttigieg is eyeing the vice-presidential slot. An insider notes, "He’s open to it." However, Harris allies are skeptical, believing she might favor a running mate from outside Washington who could secure key states better. One confidant remarked, “I just don’t see it.”
Even Buttigieg’s supporters acknowledge the odds are against him. Both he and Harris bring similar experiences from their time in the Biden administration and thus don't represent substantial change. Buttigieg has faced challenges as transportation secretary, including significant travel disruptions, despite achieving consumer protections and fines against airlines. Furthermore, some Democrats worry a ticket featuring a woman and a gay man might be seen as too progressive for swing voters.
An insider admits, “We all realize it’s unlikely.” Nonetheless, some Harris advisers find Buttigieg, who is 42, interesting for a campaign focused on generational change. His thorough vetting as a Senate-confirmed Cabinet member could make him appealing in a time-constrained selection process. His wide-ranging travel as transportation secretary — visiting 49 states — enhances his visibility.
Buttigieg’s public profile is rising, supported by endorsements from figures like Rep. James Clyburn of South Carolina and successful media appearances. He leads in at least one poll of potential candidates and is scheduled for an official tour across Michigan and Wisconsin, just as the vice-presidential selection heats up.
Despite their less-than-close relationship, Harris and Buttigieg share some personal connections. An example is the rapport between their spouses, Doug Emhoff and Chasten Buttigieg, who are co-hosting a fundraiser soon. Rachel Palermo, a former staffer for both Harris and Buttigieg, believes they both symbolize the Democratic Party’s future.
Supporters of a Harris-Buttigieg ticket argue it would amplify Harris’ groundbreaking background with Buttigieg’s diverse appeal, military experience, and Midwestern roots. Buttigieg’s on-camera skills could complement Harris, especially given some of her previous challenges in TV interviews.
Endorsements from past Buttigieg backers, including three mayors who previously supported his presidential campaign, add weight to his candidacy. His ability to engage with both Democratic and some Republican lawmakers through bipartisan infrastructure projects enhances his appeal.
Harris has centered her campaign on freedom, a theme Buttigieg also emphasized. His upcoming tours in battleground states could further validate his capability as a vice-presidential contender. Notable figures like Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Rep. Don Beyer have expressed support for him as a running mate.
The Democratic Party is expected to finalize the running mate selection through a roll-call vote by August 7, suggesting an expedited vetting process which could benefit Buttigieg. His extensive vetting history as a former presidential candidate and current Cabinet member supports this.
A history of competition for resources in the 2019 presidential primary between Harris and Buttigieg still lingers, with Buttigieg previously attracting some of Harris' financial backers. Harris had once questioned Buttigieg’s appeal but respected his comfort and relatable image.
Maintaining party unity is a priority for the Harris campaign, with aides avoiding public endorsements and allowing speculation around potential picks. Other candidates, like Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, have publicly ruled themselves out, while others like North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper have logistical and strategic obstacles.
Additional contenders mentioned include Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro. Gov. Shapiro is seen as closely aligned with Buttigieg in terms of age and preparedness.
Kevin Munoz, a Harris campaign spokesperson, confirmed that the vetting process for potential running mates has started, with no updates expected until the final decision.
Buttigieg expressed his view on MSNBC’s Morning Joe, saying, "I think anybody would be flattered to be mentioned in that context — I certainly am," but emphasized that he had no further comments on the selection process.
Daniella Diaz contributed to this report.
Thomas Evans contributed to this report for TROIB News
