Cooper was a top contender due to his ability to bring North Carolina's electoral votes into play for the Democrats
Harris aims to announce her running mate before August 7
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper withdrew from consideration as Kamala Harris' running mate
Reasons for Cooper's decision are unknown
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, a top contender for Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate, has withdrawn from consideration. The reasons for his decision are unknown.
Cooper, who previously served as chairman of the Democratic Governors Association and is prohibited from seeking a third term as governor of North Carolina, had been viewed as a good match for Harris due to his ability to bring North Carolina's 16 electoral votes into play for the Democrats. He also offers a clear demographic contrast and presents a calm, sober personality that might help counter some criticism Harris has faced.
Despite his withdrawal, polling and research are ongoing for other top contenders, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.
Cooper's decision comes as Harris faces pressure to make her choice quickly. She aims to announce her running mate before August 7.
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper has removed himself from consideration as Vice President Kamala Harris’ potential running mate
Cooper expressed concern about going through the veepstakes process at age 67
There have been concerns about North Carolina’s Republican lieutenant governor Mark Robinson taking over as governor when Cooper is absent from the state
Cooper expressed concern about going through the veepstakes process at age 67
There have been concerns about North Carolina's Republican lieutenant governor Mark Robinson taking over as governor when Cooper is absent from the state
Cooper previously served as chairman of the Democratic Governors Association
He is prohibited from seeking a third term as governor of North Carolina