As Vice President Kamala Harris’s search for a running mate intensifies, Senator Mark Kelly, D-A.Z., has emerged as the clear frontrunner — sparking some serious concern within Democratic circles.
While Kelly’s background as a former astronaut and his electoral success in Arizona make him an attractive candidate, strategic concerns about the potential loss of his Senate seat are casting a shadow over his prospects.
Several establishment Democratic senators have rushed to praise Kelly’s qualifications. Sen. Tim Kaine, D-V.A., the party’s failed 2016 vice presidential nominee, called Kelly “superb,” while Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-C.T., lauded his “enormous depth and wisdom.”
Sen. Brian Schatz, D-H.I., described Kelly as “savvy” and “one of the most unflappable people I’ve ever met.”
However, the enthusiasm is tempered by the nature of the Democrats’ slim Senate majority and Kelly’s inexperience on the national stage.
A Democratic official who has worked with Harris in the past expressed concern: “Kelly has got a lot of appeal as a candidate, but unproven as a national campaigner. And yes, he has a valuable seat.”
The worry stems from the possibility that if Kelly were to become vice president, his Senate seat could be up for grabs in a special election.
It is possible that Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, could appoint a successor, but the seat would likely face a competitive race before Kelly’s term ends in 2029. This scenario could potentially shift the balance of power in the Senate.
Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) highlighted that while Kelly is a strong contender, there are “several people who fill that role.” Some Democrats suggest that Harris might benefit from choosing a governor to complement her own Senate experience.
Kelly’s stance on certain issues has also raised eyebrows. His reluctance to co-sponsor the PRO Act, a high priority for unions, has rankled organized labor, although his spokesperson has stated he would vote for it on the Senate floor.
When asked about the possibility of being Harris’s running mate, Kelly deflected, focusing instead on praising Harris and criticizing former President Donald Trump. “Kamala Harris is going to be the nominee. That is clear. She’s the right person for this job,” Kelly stated.
A Senate Democratic aide summed up the dilemma facing the party: “She should pick whoever she thinks she can work and campaign with the most effectively. To stop Trump, you put out your starters. You don’t worry about the risk of an injury.”
As the vetting process continues, it’s clear that while Mark Kelly brings significant strengths to the table, his selection is far from a slam dunk.
The Democratic Party must carefully weigh the potential electoral advantages against the risk of losing a crucial Senate seat in an increasingly competitive political landscape.