The race for Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate is ongoing, but now without two significant figures. North Carolina’s Governor, Roy Cooper, a close ally of Harris, formally withdrew his name from consideration on Monday. Following suit, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also confirmed her decision to remain in her current role.
Through a message shared on X, Cooper expressed his gratitude for the nomination but stated, “the timing wasn’t right for me or North Carolina to consider joining a national ticket.” While he didn’t elaborate, The New York Times suggested that Cooper had reservations about Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, a staunch supporter of Trump, potentially taking over the state’s helm in his absence. According to sources close to the matter cited by The Times, Cooper was not convinced Robinson would manage to take over but was concerned about the potential upheaval.
On “CBS Mornings,” Whitmer made her intentions clear, opting out of the vetting process. “I’ve made it known, including to the residents of Michigan, that I intend to fulfill my duties as governor through the end of my term in 2026,” she remarked. “I’m not pursuing the vetting process,” Whitmer concluded, solidifying her stance to focus on her gubernatorial responsibilities.
