Mark Kelly Emerges as Top VP Choice for Harris

In the race to become Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly emerges as the frontrunner, boasting the highest favorability rating among potential candidates. However, a recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll reveals that half of respondents remain unsure or lack an opinion about him. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, another strong contender, holds a narrow 25%-23% favorable-unfavorable rating, with 53% of those surveyed expressing uncertainty about him. Kelly, an astronaut and husband of former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, who survived a mass shooting, benefits from greater name recognition. The poll indicates that he is viewed 15 points more favorably by Democrats and 9 points higher by independents compared to Shapiro. Other candidates mentioned include Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, but Shapiro's moderate stance may appeal to swing voters, a crucial demographic for Harris. In contrast, the Democratic vice presidential hopefuls are perceived more favorably than former President Donald Trump’s pick, JD Vance, who has a mere 34% favorable rating among national adults, with a significant 55% of independents holding a negative view of him. Despite the focus on potential running mates, the primary concern remains the presidential candidates themselves. Since the last survey, Harris' image has seen a slight improvement, rising from 40% positive to 46%, indicating a shift in public perception as the election approaches.