In an excerpt from her new book, former Vice President Kamala Harris says Pete Buttigieg was her ideal choice for a 2024 running mate. However, she ultimately concluded that America was not yet prepared for their partnership, labeling it “too risky.”
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Harris says Buttigieg was her ‘first choice’ for 2024 running mate but the pairing was too risky
Photo by Abc News
Key Takeaways:
- Harris originally wanted Pete Buttigieg as her running mate for 2024
- She considered the choice “too risky”
- Harris believes America wasn’t prepared for such a partnership
- The revelation comes from an excerpt of her new book
- The Associated Press reported the story through ABC News on September 18, 2025
Harris’s Revelation
Kamala Harris, who previously served as Vice President, discloses in her new book a pivotal moment in her decision-making for the 2024 election. The excerpt offers a rare look into her internal process, underscoring the complexity of choosing a running mate.
The Buttigieg Option
According to Harris’s account, Pete Buttigieg was her initial pick to join a potential 2024 presidential campaign. Buttigieg, a former mayor and presidential candidate, had impressed Harris on multiple fronts. However, she worried about how voters might receive such a team.
Why the Pairing Seemed Risky
Harris writes that she ultimately decided against pursuing a ticket with Buttigieg because it was “too risky.” She judged that the electorate might not be ready for the political and personal dynamics embodied by their partnership. Her statement highlights her concern that voter perceptions could overshadow the strengths both candidates might bring to the campaign.
Excerpt from Harris’s Book
These details come straight from a newly released excerpt, giving insight into Harris’s perspective on the broader political landscape heading into the 2024 election. While the full contents of Harris’s book remain undisclosed in the story, this revelation about Buttigieg underscores her strategic assessments and cautious approach in a competitive environment.
Publication and Source
The Associated Press provided the original report, released on ABC News on September 18, 2025. Beyond these key points, any further commentary or elaboration remains under wraps, as the complete content of Harris’s book has not been made public in full.
