North Carolina Governor Backs Harris, Points to Robust VP Choices

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, who recently confirmed he would not be running as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate, expressed his enthusiasm for the Democratic Party's options for her. Speaking at a public event in Brunswick County with US Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan, Cooper reiterated that it was not the right time for him or the state to be on a national ticket.

Cooper, who is barred by term limits from seeking reelection this year, had been considered among a dozen potential contenders for Harris's vice-presidential pick. He has been actively supporting President Joe Biden's reelection campaign and now extends his support to Harris. "I am going to work every day to see that she is elected," Cooper told WECT-TV. "I believe that she will win, and I look forward to this campaign because she has the right message and she is the right person for this country."

Concerns Over State Leadership

Cooper revealed that one of his concerns about joining the national ticket was the potential actions of Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson if he left the state to campaign. The state constitution stipulates that "during the absence of the Governor from the State ... the Lieutenant Governor shall be Acting Governor." Robinson is currently running for governor this fall.

"We had concerns that he would try to seize the limelight because there would be a lot, if I were the vice presidential candidate, on him, and that would be a real distraction to the presidential campaign," Cooper said. He cited an instance when Robinson held a news conference during his absence to announce a "NC Solidarity with Israel Week" proclamation after an attack inside Israel.

Environmental Funding Celebration

At Tuesday's event at Green Swamp Preserve, Cooper and Regan celebrated a USD 421 million grant aimed at reducing climate pollution across North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland. The funds will be used to preserve, enhance, or restore coastal habitats, forests, and farmland, according to Cooper's office.

Cooper had withdrawn from consideration for Harris's running mate well before her vetting process began. This information was confirmed by two individuals familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the search process.

Cooper remains committed to supporting Harris's campaign and believes in her ability to lead. His decision not to run was influenced by both state concerns and his belief in Harris's suitability for the role.