Gretchen Whitmer: Staying in Michigan, Not Part of Veepstakes Process with Kamala Harris

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has dismissed speculation that she is being considered for Vice President Kamala Harris' running mate, stating that she is not part of the vetting process and intends to stay in Michigan. Despite being a rumored potential candidate, Whitmer has maintained her focus on her role as governor, emphasizing her commitment to finishing her term and addressing the state's crime and gun violence issues.

Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan has emphatically denied any involvement in Vice President Kamala Harris' vice presidential selection process, asserting that she remains dedicated to her gubernatorial duties in Michigan.

Whitmer's name has been bandied about as a potential running mate for Harris, who is expected to announce her choice in the coming week. However, the Michigan governor has unequivocally stated that she is not part of the vetting process and has no intention of leaving her current position.

Gretchen Whitmer: Staying in Michigan, Not Part of Veepstakes Process with Kamala Harris

"Everything's truncated, and [Harris] is going to make that decision probably in the next six, seven days," Whitmer said in an interview with CBS Mornings. "I would imagine we'll know who her running mate is, and we'll get ready for convention."

Whitmer emphasized her commitment to serving out the remainder of her term as Michigan's governor, which ends in 2026. She recently signed the state's education budget and stated that she intends to focus on the job at hand.

Gretchen Whitmer: Staying in Michigan, Not Part of Veepstakes Process with Kamala Harris

"I'm not interested in doing [anything] other than this job for the next two and a half years," Whitmer said.

Despite Whitmer's current disinterest, it remains uncertain whether she could be persuaded to accept the vice presidential nomination if offered.

Gretchen Whitmer: Staying in Michigan, Not Part of Veepstakes Process with Kamala Harris

Whitmer, a former prosecutor, has a strong record on crime and gun violence. She has implemented initiatives to reduce gun violence and provided funding for officer wellness and police recruitment. However, she has also faced criticism for a controversial program assisting migrants, which some say has compromised public safety.

Christopher Kierkus, an assistant professor of criminal justice at Michigan's Grand Valley State University, believes Whitmer's approach to crime has not significantly altered the situation. However, he acknowledges her efforts to address gun violence through legislation.

Gretchen Whitmer: Staying in Michigan, Not Part of Veepstakes Process with Kamala Harris

According to Mike Sauger, president of the Michigan Fraternal Order of Police, Whitmer has provided funding for officer wellness and police recruits but has generally maintained a neutral stance on law enforcement issues.

If Whitmer were selected as Harris' running mate, she would join a Democratic ticket that has faced setbacks. Harris herself has been the subject of criticism for her performance as vice president, and President Joe Biden's approval ratings have languished.

Gretchen Whitmer: Staying in Michigan, Not Part of Veepstakes Process with Kamala Harris

Adding to the challenges, both Whitmer and Harris have been targeted by domestic terror plots. Whitmer was the target of a kidnapping conspiracy in 2020, and Harris' husband, Doug Emhoff, was threatened by a man carrying a gun outside their Washington, D.C., residence in 2021.

Despite these hurdles, Whitmer's political career has been marked by success. She has risen through the ranks from state senator to county prosecutor and governor. Her personal experience with sexual assault and her focus on public safety have gained her national attention.

Gretchen Whitmer: Staying in Michigan, Not Part of Veepstakes Process with Kamala Harris

It remains to be seen whether Whitmer's name will appear on the Democratic ticket in 2024. However, her denial of any involvement in the veepstakes process suggests that she is determined to stay focused on her current role as governor of Michigan.