Full Breakdown
Biden's Vice Presidential Choice: The Whitmer-Harris Controversy
4/15/2026, 4:36:31 AM
Biden's Initial Preference for Whitmer
A recent report by The Atlantic reveals that former President Joe Biden initially favored Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer as his running mate during the 2020 presidential election. Whitmer gained national prominence for her opposition to then-President Donald Trump, which made her a strong contender. According to sources familiar with the vetting process, Biden was impressed by her leadership and considered her a suitable choice for vice president. By the summer of 2020, Whitmer was actively being vetted and had even prepared to accept the role if offered.
The Shift in Selection Dynamics
However, the political landscape shifted dramatically following the death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, which sparked widespread protests against racial injustice. A former senior staffer for Whitmer indicated that the moment called for a Black running mate, which ultimately led to the selection of Kamala Harris. This sentiment was echoed by a former adviser to both Biden and Harris, who confirmed that Biden's preference for Whitmer was significant but overshadowed by the need for representation in the wake of the protests.
Whitmer's Response and Continued Support
Despite not being selected, Whitmer expressed her willingness to serve as Biden's running mate, stating, “If Joe Biden had called and said, ‘I need you to be my partner and be my running mate,’ I would have said yes. This election was that important.” She continued to support the Biden-Harris campaign throughout the election cycle and remained loyal even as Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race.
Criticism and Opposition
The decision to choose Harris over Whitmer has drawn criticism from various quarters. Some argue that the choice was politically motivated rather than based on merit, suggesting that the Democratic Party's focus on diversity may have overshadowed other considerations. Critics contend that this approach could alienate voters who prioritize experience and policy over identity.
Official Statements & Responses
Biden's office has not publicly commented on the specifics of the vice presidential selection process. However, Whitmer's acknowledgment of her readiness to accept the role reflects her commitment to the Democratic ticket and the importance she placed on the election's outcome.
What's Next for Harris and Whitmer?
As the Democratic Party gears up for the 2028 presidential election, both Kamala Harris and Gretchen Whitmer are considered potential candidates. Harris has hinted at a possible run, stating, “I might, I might. I’m thinking about it,” during a recent event at the National Action Network convention. Meanwhile, Whitmer's continued visibility and support for Biden may position her as a significant player in the upcoming election cycle.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Atlantic report presents a compelling narrative regarding Biden's initial preference for Whitmer, it does not provide comprehensive insights into the internal dynamics that ultimately led to Harris's selection. Additionally, the perspectives of other potential candidates and their reactions to the selection process remain underexplored.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If Joe Biden had called and said, ‘I need you to be my partner and be my running mate,’ I would have said yes,” — Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan
- “The moment called for a black running mate,” — Former senior staffer for Gretchen Whitmer
- “All of this attention seemed like it might add up to something, and by summer 2020, Whitmer was being vetted for vice president,” — The Atlantic report on Whitmer's vetting process
