Mayor Pete

[Continential]

Hoping that Stacey Abarms is VP

[America Needs a 13-6 Progressive SCOTUS]

Hoping that Stacey Abarms is VP

no

[Continential]

Hoping that Stacey Abarms is VP

no

or Betty Sutton

[America Needs R'hllor]

Soon enough, I'll be releasing a list of contenders, and will ask for your comments on who should be chosen! Also, one detail I missed and added to the Rand Paul post:

You must be logged in to read this quote.

The Democratic nominees are Joe Donnelly for Senate (convinced by Pete to run for reelection, facing a very tough battle after barely surviging 2018 ITTL as the trends are even worse than 2018 IOTL) and Lieuteanant Governor Linda Lawson for Governor, facing better odds thanks to Greg Pence being a lackluster candidate and Governor Buttigieg's popularity.

[America Needs a 13-6 Progressive SCOTUS]

Please do not allow total failure Governor Hogan to win the Republican nomination.

[America Needs R'hllor]

SPECIAL REPORT: Democratic Veepstakes

The Major Contenders


Name: Kyrsten Lea Sinema
Age: 48
Past jobs: Arizona State Representative (2005-2011), Arizona State Senator (2011-2012), U.S. Representative from Arizona's 8th district (2013-2019), U.S. Senator from Arizona (2019-)
Why is she being considered: The third-place finisher in the 2024 Democratic Primaries, Senator Sinema had been a rising star in the party ever since easily beating fmr. Sheriff Joe Arpaio in the 2018 midterms. Growing increasingly liberal in congress, she became popular with the base with fire-breathing controversial comments, and yet kept her brand of maverick, independent politics, bucking the party line from time to time, and is right now decisively leading in the polls of Arizona's Senate race, which she was able to keep running for while running for President thanks to the help of Governor Greg Stanton and the state's Democratic legislature. It's clear she'd bring a lot to the ticket- a legislative experience as opposed to Mayor Pete's executive one; geographical balance with appeal in the all-important southwest and the swing-state of Arizona; and she's a bisexual woman, meaning she would give the ticket another historical importance, the first female Vice President. However, many in the party's grassroots and donor base view her suspiciously and believe she might be a bit too controversial for the spot. Additioally, being a major former rival of the Governor, her primary attacks on him could be exploited, and she's not exactly the fresh face many Americans seem to crave.


Name: Gretchen Esther Whitmer
Age: 53
Past jobs: Michigan State Representative (2001-2006), Michigan State Senator (2006-2015), Ingraham County Prosecutor (2016), Governor of Michigan (2019-
Why is she being considered: Whitmer, like Buttigieg, is a popular, successful Governor in the Midwest that Democrats so desperately want to win back. Elected in 2018, she easily won re-election in 2022 and holds sky-high approval ratings in her state. Reinforcing the ticket's strength in the region and almost guaranteeing the important battleground of Michigan, Whitmer would also be a woman in a ticket seeking one. However, like Sinema, she's weighed down by being a former Presidential contender, and she might be too similar to Governor Buttigieg in experience, being a Governor of a Midwestern state.


Name: Richard Adams Cordray
Age: 65
Past jobs: Ohio State Representative (1991-1992), Solicitor General of Ohio (1993-1995), Franklin County Treasurer (2002-2007), Treasurer of Ohio (2007-2009), Attorney General of Ohio (2009-2011), Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (2012-2017), Governor of Ohio (2019-)
Why is he being considered: Choosing his main rival in the primary would be the ultimate unity move by Governor Buttigieg, and it seems like it could happen. Governor Cordray is popular in his Republican-trending state and could put it in play, is respected across the spectrum for his extensive and prestigious experience and is adored by the party's progressive pro-labour base, so he definitely has appeal, but he comes with problems of his own. As the second-place primary finisher, he's made some major attacks on the nominee, and some say that he's bland and uninspiring, pointing to the flop of his initially-promising Presidential campaign. Additionally, he's a white male Governor from the Midwest, not bringing any diversity to the ticket. Another big weakness could be that he was already at the second spot- while sources say he's interested in trying again, Americans might very well might want to see a different face in the Veep debate.


Name: Jason David Kander
Age: 43
Past jobs: Missouri State Representative (2009-2013), Secretary of State of Missouri (2013-2017), Governor of Missouri (2021-)
Why is he being considered: Kander was the first major figure to endorse Buttigieg and, according to many sources, the initial man who pushed Mayor Pete towards a Presidential campaign. From the first day he supported the nominee with all his energy and enthusiasm, serving as Campaign Chairman, and without him Pete might very well not be where he is right now. Now, some sources speculate, will come his reward. A Buttigieg\Kander ticket would be similar to the Clinton\Gore ticket of 1992- two young, charismatic, easy-on-the-eyes men with similar appeal. Indeed, Kander's charisma, popularity and energy could help the ticket rise on the wave of Democratic enthusiasm. But there also lies his weakness- like Cordray, he doesn't bring much diversity to the ticker. Another weakness is that his Presidential campaign in 2020 is accused by some as part of the reason for the contested convention that hurt the party so much.


Name: Kamala Devi Harris
Age: 60
Past jobs: District Attorney of San Francisco (2004-2011), Attorney General of California (2011-2017), U.S. Senator from California (2017-)
Why is she being considered: Senator Harris is a minority woman with deep experience and credentials on issues Governor Buttigieg is lacking- law and congress. She's very liberal and would be paltable to the base, in addition to adding historic diversity to the ticket and geographical balance. However, her 2020 campaign made her a familiar face some Americans might be tired of, her endorsement of Governor Newsom made parts of the progressive base suspicious of her, and her questionable action as District Attorney and Attorney General continue to dog her.


Name: Anthony Renard Foxx
Age: 53
Past jobs: Mayor of Charlotte (2009-2013), U.S. Secretary of Transportation (2013-2017), U.S. Senator from North Carolina (2021-)
Why is he being considered: Foxx seems like almost a natural choice- he's a minority with an extensive experience which seems to both reinforce and complement Buttigieg's. He was Mayor, a federal Secretary who knows the ins and outs of the government, and a Senator with ties to congress, all that could make him a stronger candidate. He's also from a very important and key swing-state, which might very well be crucial for deciding the election, and he already showed his popularity there by winning statewide in a year congressional Democrats didn't see too many victories. All of this makes him one of the major contenders for the VP spot. However, having just won the Senate seat a few years ago, Democrats could fear losing it without a strong candidate like him sitting on it.


Name: Cathy Glasson
Age: 65
Past jobs: Union Organizer, Governor of Iowa (2019-)
Why is she being considered: After her upstart victory in the 2018 Iowa Gubernatorial election, she maintained popularity and easily won reelection in 2022, in a rematch against the ousted Governor Reynolds. Holding the support of unions everywhere and beloved by progressives, Glasson was considered a major possible 2024 contender, but decided to stay out- and her endorsement of Buttigieg potentially played a major part in winning him the Iowa Caucuses and, arguably, the Democratic Primaries. If Buttigieg wants to get the support of union workers, she is his choice, and the fact she's a woman only reinforces the argument. However, some inter-union conflicts from her past could put a shadow on her candidacy.


Name: Ralph Shearer Northam
Age: 65
Past jobs: Virginia State Senator (2008-2014), Lieutenant Governor of Virginia (2014-2018), Governor of Virginia (2018-2022)
Why is he being considered: A moderate and very popular Governor of Virginia, Northam could be a safe pick that appeals to independents and moderates, shores up Buttigieg's relatively low experience and is seen as a safe hand that could easily take over if the worst happens. But his centrist politics could sour the progressive base on the ticket, and he could be considered another Tim Kaine, bringing back painful memories of Hillary Clinton's loss to Donald Trump in 2016. Also weighing him down is his 2024 Presidential candidacy.


Name: Joseph Patrick Kennedy III
Age: 44
Past jobs: U.S. Representative from Massachusett's 4th district (2013-2021), U.S. Senator from Massachusetts (2021-)
Why is he being considered: It's not hard to understand why Joe Kennedy is a rising star speculated for the Presidential race, and now the VP spot. He's young, bright and charismatic, with a famous name still popular with some Democrats, and now with the credentials to boot, having several years in the Senate. He's also seen as a progressive fighter, making famous stands on issues ranging from healthcare to immigration. However, he wouldn't add much diversity to the ticket, could potentially threaten to overshadow the nominee, whose charisma is a lot of his appeal, and hailing from the deeply Democratic northeast, wouldn't particularly help in any state in the general election. Still, he's a strong contender and sure to appear on anyone's list.


Name: Stephen Clark Bullock
Age: 58
Past jobs: Attorney General of Montana (2009-2013), Governor of Montana (2013-2021), U.S. Senator from Montana (2021-)
Why is he being considered: The liberal, popular Governor of deep-red Montana turned into U.S. Senator and a Democratic success story, Steve Bullock seems like a natural choice for almost any candidate. He has plenty of experience and appeals to independents and moderates, while remaining popular with progressives, which made him a speculated candidate for President in both 2020 and 2024, with the former year even seeing a "Draft Bullock" movement being created. In the end, though, he opted to finish his term in the Senate, with a difficult 2026 reelection looming as split-ticket voting seeming to be on a downhill road. He could bring a lot to the Buttigieg candidacy, however, he'd not bring racial or gender diversity, which could be what the Demcorats are looking for, and his pro-gun positions could anger an activist base increasingly hostile to guns. It seems that if one of Sinema or Whitmer were the nominees, he'd be the top contender, but with Buttigieg it's less certain.


Name: Jeffrey Alan Merkley
Age: 68
Past jobs: Oregon State Representative (1999-2009), U.S. Senator from Oregon (2009-)
Why is he being considered: It's clear why Merkley would be considered- the runner-up of the 2020 Demcoratic primaries who made himself a progressive icon, Merkley is very popular with the base and could shore up the unity of the Democratic party. However, as a white man whose age is getting advanced, he might not be demographically appealing for the ticket, and some are saying he's just a bit too bland and uninspiring, which hindered him in 2020.


Name: Xavier Becerra
Age: 66
Past jobs: California State Assemblyman (1990-1992), U.S. Representatvie from California's 30th, 31st and 34th districts (1993-2017), California Attorney General (2017-)
Why is he being considered: Xavier Becerra is, right now, running a competitive race for the retiring Dianne Feinsetein's open Senate seat in California. However, competing with fellow Democrats Garcetti, Bera and Breed and Republicans Thiel and Swearengin for the first & second spots, Becerra might very well not make it, freeing him up for the running-mate spot. His appeal to the ticket is large- with strong legislative and law experience, as a former Congressman and a current Attorney General for the most populated state in America, he brings the experience Buttigieg is lacking, and his appeal to Hispanics could help Democrats in states with large Hispanic populations they really hope to win, like Florida, Nevada, Arizona and Texas. Three paths stand before him if the VP considerations turn serious- press on with the current bid and hope to become Senator; drop out of the race to compete for the second spot on Mayor Pete's ticket; or lose the Senate bid and hope to get chosen despite the blow to his reputation.


Name: Gwendolyn "Gwen" Graham
Age: 61
Past jobs: U.S. Representative from Florida's 2nd district (2015-2017), Governor of Florida (2019-)
Why is she being considered: Becoming Florida's first Democratic Governor in decades back in 2018, Gwen Graham remained relatively low-profile as she worked hard in the Governor's Mansion, gaining more and more popularity ahead of a decisive 2022 reelection against Richard Corcoran. Her strength and popularity in a major swing state such as Florida made her a favourite of some Democrats, who even pressed her to run for President. Her appeal to the Buttigieg ticket is clear- woman, experienced, potentially locks up a hard and important swing state. But is she too boring and uninspiring, as some claim?

The Dark Horses


Name: Robert Francis "Beto" O'Rourke
Age: 52
Past jobs: El Passo City Councilman (2007-2011), U.S. Representative from Texas' 16th district (2013-2019), Governor of Texas (2023-)
Why is he being considered: After his narrow loss to Ted Cruz in 2018, Beto O'Rourke became a national sensation, though it was blunted amidst the celebrations of the Democratic success in the midterms. He was thought a possible Presidential contneder in 2020, but decided to refain from entering the crowded field. It turned out to be the right choice, as his challenge to Governor Greg Abbott in 2022 turned out successful thanks to the strongly Democratic environment, Abbott's declining approvals as he attempted to gain a third term and O'Rourke's own charisma. Now he's considered one of the Demcoratic party's stars, and would normally be an obvious Vice Presidential choice. But he was only just elected Governor, and agreeing to serve as Vice President now could be seen as opportunistic, as well as deprive Democrats from a strong Texas politician who could hold the seat. Thus, he's considered a long-shot, out-of-the-box choice for the seat.


Name: Stacey Yvonne Abrams
Age: 51
Past jobs: Georgia State Representative (2007-2017), Governor of Georgia (2023-)
Why is she being considered: Stacey Abrams is an unusual character to find in such a list. Before being elected Governor of Georgia just mere two years ago, she only had the experience of a State House Minority Leader and of a charismatic, popular candidate who made waves during the 2018 gubernatorial election but fell short to former Governor Cagle. She appears on the list because of several factors- she's charismatic, she's inspiring, and she appeals to much of the base. But her low amount of experience, and the fact that she was only just elected, could be a major hurdle.


Name: Benjamin Michael McAdams
Age: 50
Past jobs: Utah State Senator (2009-2012), Mayor of Salt Lake County (2013-2019), U.S. Representative from Utah's 4th district (2019-)
Why is he being considered: A surprising darkhorse choice in the leaked list, McAdams was first elected Representative from Utah in 2018, and survived a tough reelection in 2020. Since then, the state's independent redistricting commission redrew his district to include most of Salt Lake County and less of Utah County, and he's been moving left in the Democratic congressional caucus, turning from more of a blue-dog to more of a moderate liberal, though he remained in the Blue Dog Caucus. He's been slowly gaining popularity in both his state, which is trending left due to its dislike of Trump and Salt Lake City's increasing population, and in the Democratic base. He also quietly advanced in the Democratic ladder of leadership, becoming one of the Chief Deputy Whips. His appeal to the ticket would be interesting- strengthening its support with moderates and independents, possibly even Mormons, and serving as a stable and likeable second-in-command. But being a white man, and possibly not experienced enough for the ticket, could hinder McAdams.


Name: Elizabeth Ann Warren
Age: 75
Past jobs: Chair of the Congressional Oversight Panel (2008-2010), Special Advisor for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (2010-2011), U.S. Senator from Massachusetts (2013-)
Why is she being considered: While already old now, Elizabeth Warren is still a liberal lion in the Senate, and was a major Presidential contender in 2020. Choosing her could signal that Pete Buttigieg is willing to go great lengths for progressive reforms in America, and reassure Cordray voters that an experienced progressive is his second-in-command. However, her campaign in 2020 hurt her reputation, and she might just be too old.


Name: Katherine Lauren Hill
Age: 37
Past jobs: Executive Director for PATH, U.S. Representative from California's 25th district (2019-)
Why is she being considered: After running "the most milennial campaign ever" in her 2018 congressional bid, Katie Hill became increasingly popular with young Democrats and traveled the country to campaign for other young politicians. She's considered by some an example for progressive, grassroots-oriented politics without radicalism. She's young and charismatic, and a woman to boot, which could make her a compelling outside choice for Vice President. However, is she too inexperienced to join Mayor Pete?

OTHER NAMES MENTIONED: Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS), Fmr. Mayor Eric Garcetti (D-CA), Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA), Senator Amy Klobucher (D-MN), Fmr. Att. Gen. Eric Holder (D-DC), Fmr. Sec. Julian Castro (D-TX), Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Senator Phil Bredesen (D-TN), Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY)

[😥]

Buttigieg/Bullock

[Continential]

Anthony Foxx was never Secretary of State.


Buttigieg/Whitmer or Hill

[America Needs R'hllor]

Anthony Foxx was never Secretary of State.


Buttigieg/Whitmer or Hill

Woops, meant Transportation

[P. Clodius Pulcher did nothing wrong]

I'll vote for any ticket that had Pete Buttigieg at the top!

[scutosaurus]

GWEN

[libertpaulian]

It'll be Kander, IMO.  All the hints in this TL point to it.

[GM Team Member and Deputy PPT WB]

It'll be Kander, IMO.  All the hints in this TL point to it.

[America Needs R'hllor]

It'll be Kander, IMO.  All the hints in this TL point to it.

Could happen, but I will say I haven't decided yet Kander is a strong supporter but has some disadvantages as VP, and Pete doesn't choose on issues of "loyalty" like someone else we know.

[libertpaulian]

It'll be Kander, IMO.  All the hints in this TL point to it.

Could happen, but I will say I haven't decided yet Kander is a strong supporter but has some disadvantages as VP, and Pete doesn't choose on issues of "loyalty" like someone else we know.

That is true.  In 2008, very few people expected Joe Biden to be President Obama's choice.

[Continential]

It'll be Kander, IMO.  All the hints in this TL point to it.

Could happen, but I will say I haven't decided yet Kander is a strong supporter but has some disadvantages as VP, and Pete doesn't choose on issues of "loyalty" like someone else we know.

That is true.  In 2008, very few people expected Joe Biden to be President Obama's choice.

True, and the shortlist didn't have Clinton

[America Needs R'hllor]

Phil

It felt like they almost made it.

Moderate, sensible Republicans willing to compromise at least a bit on conservative values got so close. Their champion, Larry Hogan, overperformed every expectation, winning state after state and giving Pence a major scare. He survived better than Kelly or Paul, who both represented more conservative wings of the party, and was now officially the runner-up for the Republican nomination.

But almost wasn't good enough. Mike Pence, that ultra-conservative religious extremist, was the Republican nominee. He was Trump's Vice President and a Trump loyalist, an uncompromising conservative with anti-LGBT history that will continue sinking the party's brand with young people. Meanwhile, the Democrat was a young, telegenic Democrat popular with the American youth. If you asked Phil, it was a disaster in the making- if Republicans continue sinking themselves with the young and relying on the old, then, well, eventually there won't be any of these olds left. The new olds will be the previous pro-Demcoratic youngs. It would happen after Phil was gone, sure, but it was still an existential crisis for his party.

Mike Pence was gonna lose. Phil was sure of it. And even if he won, he'd just damage them more. The pro-trade, ready-ro-compromise party that he wanted to be a part of would continue being the party of protectionists and religious extremists.

Phil was also sure that someone needed to challenge him as a third party. Run as an independent moderate, give Hogan Republicans another option. He tried to speak to the former Maryland Governor himseld- after all, he didn't endorse Pence after conceding- but Larry was adamant that he didn't want to go through such a campaign and felt someone else and new should step forward, especially after he had to tack right in the primary. He spoke to Charlie, but he didn't want to hurt his brand in Massachusetts. Kasich said he was too old for this, and that Americans were tired of his face after his failed primary challenge in 2020. He was right.

The Vermont Governor then increasingly felt that it had to be him- sure, he was too liberal for most Republicans but he could say he had to tack left in a state like his, and run on a moderate platform that would attract Republicans sick of Trumpism and extremism. Sure, he wouldn't win, but maybe he'd help save the American political system from two extremist parties in the long term. Besides, he was approaching the end of his fourth term as Governor- eight years, like most Governors in the country- and running every two years was getting too tiring in his age, especially with the latest challenge being so tight. In 2016 he beat Sue Minter respectably, in 2018 he defeated that adoreable student, Ethan Sonneborn, by a landslide, in 2020 he beat Kesha Ram by a narrower margin and in 2022 it was a tight win against Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger.

In 2024, Senator Tim Ashe kept hinting a challenge from a powerful progressive, and Phil knew it would likely be Lieutenant Governor David Zuckerman, who he saw as a disaster, and by then the race looked close. So he decided to do the strategic thing and retire, which of course made the Democratic field larger, which made it hard for Zuckerman to win. Sure enough, the field increased with former Speaker Shap Smith, former Mayor Weinberger, current Speaker Mitzi Johnson and State Senator Kiah Morris, the only African Ameircan legislator in Vermont. Zuckerman was constantly attacked for his support for GMO labeling and his opposition to new genetic engineering technologies, which Morris famously called "regressive, not progressive". In the end, he only came third in the primary, behind Kiah Morris, who surprisingly won the nomination, and Mirzi Johnson. He won the Progressive nomination, though, and so the general election became a three-way battle between the two of them and Dustin Allard Degree, former State Senator and his Special Assistant, who was the Republican and, in Phil's opinion, a strong candidate.

Now the Governor was decided. He had to move fast and establish ballot access in all 50 states and DC, preventing the situation McMullin faced in his late 2016 bid. He had to inform all possible supporters and start searching for a running mate. The latter was especially important- McMullin failed to make a dent because his ticket was just too obscure and boring. He needed to find a wild card, maybe not someone well-known but someone who could inject energy in to the ticket.

Initially, he wanted someone like Hickenlooper- a Democrat for a broader appeal. But the entire Democratic Party, from the Blue Dogs to the DSA, was lining up behind Buttigieg, so Phil decided to concentrate on drawing votes from Pence. Former Secretary Jim Mattis was someone they wanted to court, or possibly former Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, former Senator Rob Portman or former Governor Chris Sununu, but all had their own baggage and problems, and who knew if any of them would agree. Scott felt that he might eventually have to settle on someone else. But it didn't matter- first he had a hard task, starting the campaign and getting the necessary attention.

On the stage close by, former Governor Jim Douglas, his first endorser, finished the introduction. "So let me invite this brave man to the stage. I want you all to welcome our Governor and Independent candidate for President of the United States of America, Phil Scott!"

Phil climbed up to the stage and walked up to the podium, facing the modest crowd in his Burlington rally. "People of Vermont- today, I'm announcing the beginning of the end for the two-party system!"

General Election Polling- National
Governor Pete Buttigieg (D-IN)\??- 48%%
Vice President Mike Pence (R-IN)\??- 42%
City Councillor Nicholas Sarwark (L-AZ)\Activist Zoltan Istvan (L-CA)- 2%
Businessman Don Blankenship (C-WV)\Fmr. U.S. Rep. Steve Stockman (C-TX)- 1%
Activist Howie Hawkins (G-NY)\Activist Gary Swing (G-AZ)- 0%
Other\Undecided- 7%
BUTTIGIEG +6

Vermont Gubernatorial Election (Democratic Primary)
State Senator Kiah Morris- 32.8% ✓
Speaker Mitzi Johnson- 29.2%
Lieutenant Governor David Zuckerman- 22.4%
Fmr. Mayor Miro Weinberger- 11.0%
Fmr. Speaker Shap Smith- 4.6%

Vermont Gubernatorial Election- Polling
State Senator Kiah Morris (D)- 34%%
Fmr. State Senator Dustin Allard Degree (R)- 31%
Lieutenant Governor David Zuckerman (P)- 23%
Undecided\Others- 12%

[You don't see any blue avatars now]

Damn. I don't know whether to support Zuckerman or Morris.

[KaiserDave]

YES! This is a thing! PHIL PHIL PHIL PHIL PHIL

[America Needs R'hllor]

Tom

"Thanks for the invintation," Senator Cotton said to the phone, a smile curling on his lips. "I'll be sure to come prepared with all you've asked me for."

"Good." Nick Ayres said from the other side. "See you soon." He hang up.

Tom put down the phone and made himself comfortable on his fine leather chair, sipping a cup of wine. Sure, he knew that he was going to be considered for the Vice Presidential nomination, but the fact that he was invited to an interview meant one of two things- he's been seriously considered for running mate, or maybe some other cabinet position like Secretary of Defence. Either way, it bode well for him.

The Senator from Arkansas wasn't living in any delusions. Mike Pence was absolutely the underdog, and now that Phil Scott entered the race, winning would be a pipe dream. The armires were all getting into position- Buttigieg was unifying the Democratic Party, Pence was officially victorious in the Republican primary after both Paul and Kelly released their delegates to him, and Scott was gaining support from moderates like Baker, who already endorsed him, and Hogan, who was expected to give his high-profile endorsement after a running mate is chosen. They disgusted Tom- a bunch of traitors, fake conservative RINOs who were ready to hand the Presidency to that... man, if you could call him that.

But as Trump showed in 2016 and 2020, anything could happen. And more importantly, the position would give Tom the national prominence necessary to reactivate the Trump coalition in his favour, and come 2028, he could win the Republican nomination and unseat Pete, who was sure to be a disaster. He might've lost his Presidential bid in 2024 embarrassingly, but this was the door to reviving his hopes.

The phone rang again. This time, it was his secretary. "Senator Cotton," he said with a calm voice, your staff asks if you could open Fox News for just a moment."

The Senator did as he was asked. Immediately, the report about Pence's Vice Presidential deliberations were blaring before him, and the fact became apparent quickly- a longlist had leaked. One as detailed and comprehensive as the one leaked by the Democrats. Vice President Pence countered them with his own leak, clearly. Tom was relieved to see he was there, amongst the major contenders, but he had a worrying number of rivals, some of whom even he knew were formidable. The question was whether they would all agree to serve as running mates with Pence in such a situation in the polls.

General Election Polling- National
Governor Pete Buttigieg (D-IN)??- 44%%
Vice President Mike Pence (R-IN)??- 35%
Governor Phil Scott (RI-VT)??- 11%
City Councillor Nicholas Sarwark (L-AZ)Activist Zoltan Istvan (L-CA)- 2%
Businessman Don Blankenship (C-WV)Fmr. U.S. Rep. Steve Stockman (C-TX)- 2%
Activist Howie Hawkins (G-NY)Activist Gary Swing (G-AZ)- 0%
OtherUndecided- 6%
BUTTIGIEG +9

Republican Montana Caucuses
Vice President Mike Pence (R-IN)- 65.6% ✓
Fmr. Gov. Larry Hogan (R-MD)- 33.1%
Others- 1.3%

Republican New Jersey Primaries
Fmr. Gov. Larry Hogan (R-MD)- 58.3% ✓
Vice President Mike Pence (R-IN)- 38.7%
Others- 3.0%

Republican New Mexico Primaries
Vice President Mike Pence (R-IN)- 54.2% ✓
Fmr. Gov. Larry Hogan (R-MD)- 43.6%
Others- 2.2%

Republican South Dakota Caucuses
Vice President Mike Pence (R-IN)- 73.8% ✓
Fmr. Gov. Larry Hogan (R-MD)- 25.5%
Others- 0.7%

Republican Washington Primaries
Fmr. Gov. Larry Hogan (R-MD)- 51.7% ✓
Vice President Mike Pence (R-IN)- 44.4%
Others- 3.9%

California Senate Election (Jungle Primary)
Fmr. Mayor Eric Garcetti- 17.4% ✓
Attorney General Xavier Becerra- 16.6% ✓
Fmr. Mayor Ashley Swearengin- 16.1%
Mayor London Breed- 14.9%
Venture Capitalist Peter Thiel- 9.5%
U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell- 5.0%
U.S. Rep. Ami Bera- 4.3%
Businessman John Cox- 4.1%
TYT Host Cenk Uygur- 3.0%
Fmr. Treasurer John Chiang- 2.8%
Fmr. U.S. Rep. Doug Ose- 2.3%
Fmr. State Sen. Kevin de León- 1.7%
Transhumanist Zoltan Istvan- 1.0%
Activist Michael Savage- 0.6%
Others- 0.7%

California Senate Election- Polling
Attorney General Xavier Becerra (D)- 38%
Fmr. Mayor Eric Garcetti (D)- 35%
Undecided- 27%

2020 Major Parties Presidential Primaries- FINAL RESULTS

Democratic Primaries

American Samoa
Guam
Northern Mariana Islands
US Virgin Islands
Democrats Abroad

Governor Pete Buttigieg (D-IN)- 37.5% ✓
Governor Richard Cordray (D-OH)- 18.7%
Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ)- 15.1%
Governor Gavin Newsom (D-CA)- 14.4%
Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI)- 6.5%
Governor Ralph Northam (D-VA)- 5.8%
Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO)- 0.9%
U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (D-HI)-0.3%
Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ)-0.3%
Governor Lincoln Chafee (D-RI)-0.1%
Others- 0.4%

Republican Primaries

American Samoa
Guam
Northern Mariana Islands
US Virgin Islands

Vice President Mike Pence (R-IN)- 32.3% ✓
Fmr. Gov. Larry Hogan (R-MD)- 22.1%
Secretary John F. Kelly (R-MA)- 17.8%
Fmr. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY)- 17.5%
Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR)- 6.3%
Fmr. Ambassador Nikki Haley (R-SC)- 1.4%
Fmr. Administrator Scott Pruitt (R-OK)- 1.2%
Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO)- 0.4%
Senator Matt Bevin (R-KY)- 0.2%
Senator Ben Sasse (R-NE)- 0.1%
Fmr. Senator Jeff Flake- 0.1%
Secretary Rick Perry (R-TX)- 0.1%
Others- 0.5%

[America Needs R'hllor]

SPECIAL REPORT: Republican Veepstakes

The Major Contenders


Name: Marco Antonio Rubio
Age: 53
Past jobs: Florida State Representative (2000-2008), U.S. Senator from Florida (2011-2023)
Why is he being considered: Despite losing his high-profile Senate race in 2022 to Democrat Stephanie Murphy, Rubio remains a popular face in Democratic circles. Originally elected as a Tea Party darling, he became the establishment's hope in the 2016 Republican primaries against President Trump before his campaign flopped under heavy attacks from Trump and a terrible debate in New Hampshire, where he was sunk by Chris Christie. However, he's still a young face and considered charismatic, with his Cuban heritage possibly helping a ticket including him with Hispanics. Additionally, he's still popular in an important swing state, Florida, which makes his appeal to the ticket obvious. He's also one of the politicians likely to accept the running mate's spot, as others have signaled reluctance to attach themselves to a campaign they deem likely to lose. His loss in 2022 and his embarrassing 2016 Presidential campaign, however, could hurt his chances to be chosen by Pence.


Name: Timothy Eugene Scott
Age: 59
Past jobs: Charleston County Councillor (1995-2009), South Carolina State Representative (2009-2011), U.S. Representative from South Carolina's 1st district (2011-2013), U.S. Senator from South Carolina (2013-)
Why is he being considered: Tim Scott is respected as a principled and decent politician across the spectrum. He's remembered for opposing judicial nominees of his own party's President for their problematic past on racial issues, while remaining a staunch and principled conservative. This, as well as the Republican Party's desperate need to appeal to minorities, especially African Americans, who only got more Democratic during President Trump's two terms, makes him very appealing as a choice. However, he doesn't represent any swing state, though South Carolina's growing African American population has recently been causing a slow move leftward, and it's unclear if Scott is interested in the VP spot. Some also whisper that choosing Scott could hurt Pence with certain elements of the Trump coalition.


Name: Joshua David Hawley
Age: 45
Past jobs: Missouri Attorney General (2017-2019), U.S. Senator from Missouri (2019-)
Why is he being considered: After being the only Republican to pick up a Senate seat in 2018, Josh Hawley was considered one of the young, promising faces of the Republican party. He's telegenic and a fresh face, but still a reliable conservative, making him an appealing choice for Pence, who's an old, familiar face. However, his short-lived Presidential campaign isn't doing him any favours- while he did respectably in Iowa and dropped out with his honour intact, it still didn't go anywhere despite his initial promise. He's also not going to help in any swing state, though Missouri could get competitive in a Democratic landslide. In any case, he's definitely a compelling choice for running mate.


Name: Randal Howard "Rand" Paul
Age: 61
Past jobs: Ophthalmologist, U.S. Senator from Kentucky (2011-2023)
Why is he being considered: Another Senator who lost his seat in the Democratic wave of 2022, Rand Paul has since revived his political career by running a strong Presidential campaign, using the media attention garnered by his feud with fellow candidate John Kelly to gather a coalition of paleoconservatives and liberty-Republicans. The Paul-Kelly feud was considered a split in the Trump coalition, between the Paulite paleoconservatives and the nationalist authoritarians supporting Kelly, and it let Pence run off with the bulk of conservative voters. Choosing Paul would be a risky move- he could alienate many voters, especially Kelly supporters, but is a proven campaigner and could energize parts of the base and maybe even the Trump coalition as a whole, which might just be what Vice President Pence needs.


Name: Thomas Bryant Cotton
Age: 47
Past jobs: Arkansas State Representative (2013-2015), U.S. Senator from Kentucky (2015-)
Why is he being considered: Relatively young and a veteran, Tom Cotton was considerd one of the rising stars of the Republican Party. Reviled by Democrats for his hawkish positions and often siding with Trump and Trumpism, he hoped to assume the mantle of the President in the 2024 Presidential election, but his campaign flopped and he had to drop out after only winning his home state in Super Tuesday. Still, he remains a popular Republican politician and could strengthen the ticket's ability to energize the base. He could also serve as a strong attack dog and a charismatic surrogate. But his campaign's failure and hawkish positions could be a hindrance.


Name: John Richard Kasich Jr.
Age: 72
Past jobs: Ohio State Senator (1979-1983), U.S. Representative from Ohio's 12th district (1983-2001), Governor of Ohio (2011-2019)
Why is he being considered: While Larry Hogan already ruled out taking the running mate's position on Mike Pence's ticket, another moderate who hadn't is former Governor Kasich. Choosing him could shore up the support of the Hogan Republicans and unite the party around Pence, as well as appeal to moderates and independents he needs to defeat Buttigieg. However, while a high-reward choice, it's also high-risk: Kasich, who challenged Trump in 2020, is disliked by many Trump supporters and could hurt the efforts to turn them out for Pence. He's also a very familiar face by now, maybe too familiar as many Americans could be tired of him, and possibly too old.


Name: Kristi Lynn Noem
Age: 53
Past jobs: South Dakota State Representative (2007-2011), U.S. Representative from South Dakota's at-large district (2011-2019), Governor of South Dakota (2019-)
Why is she being considered: One of the only women on the list, Governor Noem could possibly appeal to women, especially as she's considered strong on issues like zero tolerance to sexual misconduct. She's also a staunch conservative whose credentials no one could doubt, and is popular with the pro-Israeli lobby. However, despite a strong reelection in 2022, her popularity in South Dakota has been recently middling, she's considered by some too hawkish, which could hurt the ticket with Paul voters, and she doesn't hail from any swing state.


Name: Nimrata "Nikki" Haley
Age: 52
Past jobs: South Carolina State Representative (2005-2011), Governor of South Carolina (2011-2017), U.S. Ambassador to the UN (2017- 2020)
Why is she being considered: Usually, Nikki Haley would be one of the top contenders for the running mate's spot. She's a woman and a minority who could help the party's image, a popular former Governor and has foreign policy credentials. But after leaving the administration following Donald Trump's reelection, she increasingly became a critic and eventually turned out to be one of the most anti-Trump high profile Republicans. While this fact could hurt the ticket with the base, and make Trump's Vice President choosing her awkward, it could also help appeal to independents and moderates who disapprove of Trump, so it's a high risk choice. Another fact that could hinder her is that her Presidential campaign embarrassingly flopped, and she dropped out after losing her own home state.


Name: Evan Hollin Jenkins
Age: 64
Past jobs: West Virginia State Delegate (1994-2000), West Virginia State Senator (2002-2014), U.S. Representative from West Virginia's 3rd district (2015-2019), Governor of West Virginia (2021-)
Why is he being considered: After losing the 2018 Senate race to Demcorat Joe Manchin, Evan Jenkins went on to challenge Democrat-turned-Republican Governor Jim Justice in the Republican primary. Despite the Trump endorsement to Justice, Jenkins managed to defeat him and went on to defeat Democrat Rick Thompson and Governor Justice's independent bid in the general election, becoming Governor. Jenkins is considered a staunch but respectable conservative, is very popular in his state and could bring credibility to the Pence ticket. However, he wouldn't provide any help in any important state, and his choice could be too safe and "boring" to upend the race like Pence seems to need at this point.


Name: William Edward Haslam
Age: 66
Past jobs: Mayor of Knoxville (2003-2011), Governor of Tennessee (2011-2019), U.S. Senator from Tennessee (2021-)
Why is he being considered: Bill Haslam is certainly an appealing choice- a popular former Mayor and Governor with plenty of executive experience and credentials, and now a Senator with legislative and foreign policy experience. He's also a fairly reliable conservative with a calm demeanor that could appeal to moderates, and his being a Larry Hogan supporter in the primary could help shore up Hogan's voters. However, that's a double-edged sword- his support for Hogan, who's reviled by Trumpists, could hurt Pence with the base, and it's not even clear that Haslam would accept the offer.


Name: Benjamin Eric Sasse
Age: 52
Past jobs: Assistant Secretary of Health and Human Services for Planning and Evaluation (2007-2009), President of Midland University (2010-2014), U.S. Senator from Nebraska (2015-)
Why is he being considered: Fairly young and a strong constitutional conservative, Sasse could be a fresh and telegenic face on Pence's ticket, and his general likeability could be an asset. However, two factors could hinder him- his failed Presidential campaign, in which he dropped out after a disappointing showing in Iowa, and his principled, stubborn stand against Trump. That unique background, one of the only staunch conservatives who consistently spoke against Trump, could also help the ticket appeal to moderates without losing conservative credentials, but a base that values loyalty to President Trump could refuse to vote for a ticket including him.


Name: Matthew Griswold Bevin
Age: 57
Past jobs: Governor of Kentucky (2015-2021), U.S. Senator from Kentucky (2021-)
Why is he being considered: One of the most conservative Senators, Matt Bevin has long been a champion of firebrand social conservatives. Choosing him could be a risky move for Pence, that would alienate moderates while only solidifying support with his evangelical base, but could be appealing if he wishes to energize the base. Two other factors hurt Bevin's chances- his term as Governor of Kentucky was unpopular and he was reelected by a razor-thin margin in such a conservative state, and a disastrous debate performance sunk his then-surging Presidential campaign in 2024.


Name: Julius Caesar Watts Jr.
Age: 67
Past jobs: Oklahoma Corporation Commission Member (1990-1995), U.S. Representative from Oklahoma's 4th district (1995-2003), U.S. Senator from Oklahoma (2021-)
Why is he being considered: After being absent from the political stage since the 2000s, J.C. Watts made a comeback by securing former Senator Jim Inhofe's Senate seat. A strong economic and social conservative but also a civil rights fighter, Watts is definitely an appealing choice- he could show the party's attempts to reach out to minorities while maintaining conservative credentials. However, he said he considered voting for Obama in 2008, which could annoy a base that deeply dislikes the forme President, and he was elected Senator in 2020 and seems to like serving in congress again, making a jump to the running mate's spot potentially unappealing.

The Dark Horses


Name: Lisa Ann Murkowski
Age: 67
Past jobs: Alaska State Representative (1999-2002), U.S. Senator from Alaska (2002-)
Why is she being considered: Choosing Lisa Murkowski as his running mate would show that Pence has succumbed to the pressure of his party's resurgent moderate wing. The moderate Alaska Senator would definitely reassure Hogan voters and sink Phil Scott's Presidential campaign before it began. But while choosing a pro-choice, anti-Trump Senator could upend the race, it'd also anger the party's conservative, evangelical base and could hurt GOTV efforts in a possibly fatal way. It's also unclear if Murkowski is even interested, as sources close to her have signaled she might support the Vermont Governor's independent bid.


Name: Paul Davis Ryan Jr.
Age: 54
Past jobs: U.S. Representative from Wisconsin's 1st district (1999-)
Why is he being considered: The retiring longtime Representative and House Minority Leader, Paul Ryan, is a symbol of the Republican establishment- conservative but sometimes pragmatic, swept into a hardline poisition by the radicalized base. He stood against Trump at times, but usually towed the White House's line. Ryan was already running mate in Mitt Romney's failed 2012 Presidential bid, and was Speaker of the House, making him a familiar face, for good and, mostly, bad- he could assuge concerns of establishment-minded conservatives, but wouldn't appeal to many moderates and Trump supporters are wary of him due to his rhetorical stands against the President. It seems unlikely that Pence would choose the tired, retiring Minority Leader, but it stands as an option if he wants to lead a resurgence for the Republican establishment.


Name: Rafael Edward "Ted" Cruz
Age: 54
Past jobs: Solicitor General of Texas (2003-2008), U.S. Senator from Texas (2013-)
Why is he being considered: After seriously contemplating a Presidential campaign in 2024, Ted Cruz's decline from a conservative star to one unpopular face amongst many was solidified as he decided not to run due to dismal polling numbers. Still, he's a very passionate social and economic conservative, who could help Pence turn out firebrands and keep support from the pro-Trump base, as Cruz has been a loyal Trump supporters ever since the President's election in 2016 despite making anti-Trump noises during the campaign. Cruz is also likely looking for an escape, as a very tough reelection against Democratic Rep. Collin Allred is looming this year, which could make him an appealing option if others refuse.


Name: John Francis Kelly
Age: 74
Past jobs: Commander of the United States Southern Command (2012-2016), U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security (2017), White House Chief of Staff (2017-2021), U.S. Secretary of Defence (2021-)
Why is he being considered: Initially Pence's main primary rival and briefly the frontrunner, Kelly represents a nationalist, authoritarian part of the Trump base. Choosing him could solidify Pence's support in that base and help turning out rural voters, as well as strengthen his foreign policy and national security credentials. However, the Kelly choice would certainly alienate liberty-conservatives, and his sometimes scathing primary attacks against Pence are great material for ads. There's also reportedly personal dislike between the two, making a Kelly choice unconventional and unlikely.


Name: Daniel Crenshaw
Age: 40
Past jobs: U.S. Representative from Texas' 2nd district (2019-2023)
Why is he being considered: A veteran who lost an eye in service to the country and a staunch but respected conservative, Dan Crenshaw could be a major contender for the running mate's spot, if not for one issue- he lost reelection in 2022. His district, trending Democratic along with the rest of the Texas suburbs, could not be saved by redistricting, and he fell to the Democratic wave. Still, while out of job, he could make an interesting choice if Pence wishes to upend the race with an unconventional running mate, and it's unlikely he would alienate anyone.

[America Needs R'hllor]

Note: Added the California jungle primary results and GE polling to Tom Cotton's PoV post.

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Now that the VP longlists have both been posted, I'd like to hear from you all- who should each candidate choose and why? Feel free to suggest running mates for Phil Scott, too

[KaiserDave]

Phil should win BIGLY. I suggest Baker, Hogan, Sasse, Murkowski, or maybe Dems like Ben McAdams.

[Cold War Liberal]

Buttigieg choosing Sharice Davids would be awesome, Pence should choose Cruz or Hawley so I can watch them lose together, and Phil Scott should choose Hogan.

[P. Clodius Pulcher did nothing wrong]

I really could not care who Buttigieg chooses. I'd vote for any ticket enthusiastically