In an ongoing process to select a strong vice-presidential candidate, the campaign of Vice President Kamala Harris is vetting several individuals, including U.S. Senator Mark Kelly. As reported by USA Today on Tuesday, Kelly, a Democratic senator from Arizona, is among seven individuals who have been requested to submit personal information, indicating their serious consideration for joining the Democratic ticket.

The list of potential running mates also includes North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker. These individuals have long been speculated to be in contention for the position ever since Vice President Kamala Harris emerged as a favorite to lead a reformed Democratic ticket.

According to USA TODAY, an undisclosed source familiar with the vetting process disclosed that the Harris campaign is also considering former Louisiana Representative Cedric Richmond. Richmond previously served as a top aide in the Biden White House and on his presidential campaign.

Potential candidates undergoing the vetting process are required to provide detailed information concerning their financial status, family histories, and other personal details, as reported by CNN. This extensive vetting process is aimed at ensuring that the selected running mate would be a suitable and qualified candidate for the position.

Senator Mark Kelly has been an ardent supporter of President Joe Biden's reelection campaign and has expressed his support for the Biden-Harris ticket until recently. While being abroad in the United Kingdom on a congressional trip scheduled prior to the end of Biden's campaign, Kelly swiftly endorsed Harris as soon as she became the favored candidate. However, he has not made any public statements regarding his potential inclusion on the new Democratic slate.

The selection of a running mate is a crucial decision for any presidential campaign, as it can greatly impact the perception and support for the ticket. With Kamala Harris as the frontrunner for the Democratic ticket, the inclusion of Senator Mark Kelly as a potential running mate adds a new dimension to the mix. Republicans may view Kelly as a formidable candidate who could pose a new challenge to their party in the upcoming election.

As the vetting process continues, all eyes will be on the Harris campaign to see who will ultimately be chosen as the vice-presidential candidate. The selection of a running mate will undoubtedly shape the future direction of the Democratic campaign and could have significant implications for the 2024 presidential election.