Clever Rebel

U.S. News

Young Kamala in Photos

Before she was Vice President and the Democratic nominee, Kamala Harris lived in many places as she grew up and also had many looks.

July 31, 2024

Before Politics

Kamala Harris had a life and a style before her career in politics. We're going to have a look.  Kamala Harris

Newborn Kamala with Mother

 Kamala Harris

Baby Kamala with Father

 

Baby Kamala With Mother

 Kamala Harris

Baby Kamala in Jamaica

 Kamala Harris

Toddler Kamala in Harlem

 Kamala Harris

The Harris Sisters Christmas

 Kamala Harris

Young Kamala in California

 Kamala Harris

Young Kamala

 Kamala Harris

Kamala School Photo

 

Kamala Looking Like She's in a Band

 Kamala Harris

Looking like a New Waver

 Kamala Harris

Harris Campaign Photo

 Kamala Harris

U.S. News

Americans Split on the Next Congress

Polling data tells us that right now, there’s no telling which party is most likely to take control of the House in November 2024. US voters are split right down the middle on whether they want to see a Republican or Democrat led Congress.

July 31, 2024

Might as Well Flip a Coin

Polling data tells us that right now, there's no telling which party is most likely to take control of the House in November 2024.  Canva

Americans Split on Congress

US voters are split right down the middle on whether they want to see a Republican or Democrat led Congress.  538

Neck and Neck

According to poll aggregates by 538, the needle has been teetering only slightly between D and R over the past several days.  538

Too Soon to Tell

Based on the charts, it's difficult to tell if there will be a wide enough divergence in coming weeks before the election, as there had been in times past.  538

Dead Heat

Many recent polls have resulted in an effective tie between the 2 dominant parties.  538

Keep Up With the Pulse

If you want to stay on top of voters' motivations and impulses, keep your eye on the data coming out regularly from the brilliant staff at 538.  538

U.S. News

Is Harris Down to 3 VP Picks?

Now, that Kamala Harris the the presumptive Presidential nominee for the Democrats, everyone wants to know who she will pick as her running mate. A field of 8 candidates is now narrowing down to just 3.

July 29, 2024

Thinning the Herd

Presidential Candidate Kamala Harris may have narrowed her potential running mates down to three, late this week.  

Now Who?

Now, Harris has to pick her running mate. So, who's being discussed?  Gage Skidmore/Wikimedia License

Senator Mark Kelly

Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona is a Navy captain and an astronaut. He is strong on fundraising, is in a key swing state, and is a centrist on immigration.  Gage Skidmore/Flikr

Governor Josh Shapiro

Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania is former attorney general with bipartisan achievements, high state approval, and leads a critical swing state. He's a moderate on key Democratic issues, and has low national recognition.  Governor Tom Wolf/Wikimedia License

Gov. Tim Walz

The Governor of Minnesota known for bringing free school meals to his state is still a leading contender. He's the leader of the Democratic Governors Association, with strong fundraising connections, and progressive lawmaking accolaids.  Office of Governor Tim Walz/Flickr

Gov. Andy Beshear

Once a contender, the Governor of Kentucky is not said to be in the top 3.  Tkayne/Wikimedia License

Gov. Roy Cooper

The Governor of North Carolina is not reported to be in the top 3 at this time.  NC Dept of Public Safety/Flickr

Pete Buttigieg

Although he has been outspoken in the media recently, the U.S. Transportation Secretary, and former mayor isn't believed to be at the top of the list.
 Greg Skidmore/Flickr

Gov. J.B. Pritzker

Once a potential VP pick, the Governor of Illinois with progressive policy achievements is not believed to be in the running at this time.  Defense Visual Information Distribution Service/Public Domain

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

The Governor of Michigan was allegedly not interested in the VP position.  Defense Visual Information Distribution Service/Public Domain

Coming Soon

VP Harris may pick her VP candidate as soon as August 7th, ahead of the Democratic National Convention.  Gage Skidmore

U.S. News

Over 100 Dems Snubbed Bibi Speech

Benjamin Netanyahu was invited to speak at the Capitol and not everyone was happy about it. In fact, many politicians refused to attend. We’re taking a look at how the the leader’s trip to Washington was received.

July 29, 2024

Netanyahu's Congress Address Deepens Divides

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress on Wednesday, July 24.  Clever Rebel

Seeking Support

Netanyahu came seeking continued US support the ongoing war on Gaza amidst widespread protests.  Clever Rebel

ICC Arrest Warrant

The speech followed an International Criminal Court prosecutor's announcement seeking an arrest warrant for Netanyahu for war crimes in Gaza.  Clever Rebel

Snubbed by Dems

Over 100 Democrats, were absent for the speech, including VP Kamala Harris.  Clever Rebel

Standing Ovations

Despite the boycott, those in attendance gave Netanyahu numerous standing ovations.  Clever Rebel

A Distorted Picture

Critics, including foreign policy analysts, accused Netanyahu of presenting a distorted picture of Gaza.  Clever Rebel

Ceasefire Omission

Netanyahu made no mention of efforts to reach a ceasefire in his speech.  Clever Rebel

Protests Outside

Thousands of protesters gathered outside the Capitol to oppose Netanyahu's appearance.  Clever Rebel

Broad Consensus

Peace activists in the U.S. have built a broad consensus against the war on Gaza and military support for Israel.  Clever Rebel

Kamala's Opportunity

Vice President Kamala Harris has an opportunity to chart a new path on Middle East policy as she runs for president. But her comments following condemned protesters and reiterated her support for Israel, despite concern over humanitarian crisis and civilian death toll.  Clever Rebel

Aid Trucks Claim & Denial of Civilian Targeting

Netanyahu claimed Israel allowed over 40,000 aid trucks into Gaza, denying accusations of deliberate starvation. He also denied accusations of deliberately targeting civilians, attributing harm to Hamas actions.  Clever Rebel

Humanitarian Crisis

The U.N. reports that Gaza faces famine, needing 500 aid trucks daily, while Israel allows just over a quarter.  Clever Rebel

Partisan Divide

There is a growing partisan divide on Israel and the movement against U.S. military support.  Clever Rebel

White House Impact

Israel's siege on the whole of Gaza has hovered over the Presidency like a dark cloud.  Clever Rebel

Biden's Legacy

Since announcing that he will not be seeking re-election, President Biden would like to achieve a ceasefire agreement before the end of his term.  Clever Rebel

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib

Other Democrats are less patient. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, a US-Palestinian in the House of Representatives, protested Netanyahu's speech with signs reading "guilty of genocide" and "war criminal."  Clever Rebel

Senator Bernie Sanders

Bernie Sanders, the Jewish Senator from Vermont, a Biden supporter and a leading voice of the Democratic Party was also vocally opposed Netanyahu's U.S. visit and did not attend the session.  Clever Rebel

U.S. News

Photos Emerge of ‘Comrade Vance’

A new photo emerges of what appears to be a young J.D. Vance at what is likely a costume party. In the photo Vance is posing in a red soviet-era CCCP shirt with a gold hammer and sickle. Was young J.D. a leftist?

July 29, 2024

Comrade Vance?

New images have emerged of what appears to be a young, fresh-faced Vance wearing a gold hammer and sickle on a red CCCP shirt.  @golub/Twitter ; Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Just a Costume?

The fact that Vance is surrounded by other guys dressed as wrestlers has led viewers to assume that this was some sort of Halloween or costume party.  @golub/Twitter

The Source

The image, which is sure to become viral, was originally shared by Mykhaïlo Golub on Twitter.  @golub/Twitter

Left, Right Flip Flop?

Vance is known to have changed his position on many issues including Trump, abortion, and other social rights, as he became financed by hard-right backers. But there's no evidence that Vance was ever a Communist.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

The Other Way Around

Some speculate that if a photo of the presumptive Democratic Nominee Kamala Harris were released, the media would not be so forgiving and would use it to go after her and her candidacy.  Ken Sweeney/Twitter

World

What Do You Know About Golan Heights?

The Golan Heights are an area of Syria, occupied and controlled by Israel, monitored by the UN, with a vast array of demographics. The disputed territory has come back into the spotlight as fighting intensifies in the Levant.

July 29, 2024

Golan Heights

Today, Golan Heights is in the news. It's come under attack by aerial assualt. But what do we know about the region? Is it Israel or Syria? Who lives there and who controls it?  Sgt. Ori Shifrin/IDF Spokesperson's Unit

Geography & Location

The Golan Heights is a plateau located in the Levant, spanning about 1,800 square kilometers (690 sq mi). It is situated in southwestern Syria and borders Israel to the west, Lebanon to the north, and Jordan to the south.  CIA

Historical Context

The Golan Heights has a long and complex history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times. It has been controlled by various civilizations, including the Canaanites, Israelites, Arameans, and Romans.  Picryl

1967 Six-Day War

During the 1967 Six-Day War, Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria. The region has been under Israeli control since then, despite ongoing international disputes over its status.  Public Domain/Wikimedia

Israeli Annexation

In 1981, Israel passed the Golan Heights Law, effectively annexing the territory. However, this move has not been recognized by the United Nations or most countries, and it is considered occupied Syrian land.  Public Domain

Strategic Importance

The Golan Heights holds significant strategic value due to its elevated terrain, which provides a vantage point over surrounding areas. It also serves as a crucial water resource, feeding into the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River.  Matan Portnoy, IDF Spokesperson Unit

Different Peoples

The Golan Heights are home to many distinct ethnic and cultural groups living under Israeli occupation.  BasilLeaf/Wikimedia

Demographics

The population of the Golan Heights includes Israeli settlers and Druze Arabs. As of recent estimates, about 50,000 people live in the region, with roughly half being Israeli Jews and the other half being Druze and other minorities.  Northern Lights 119/Flickr

UN Disengagement Observer Force

The United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) has been stationed in the Golan Heights since 1974 to monitor the ceasefire between Israel and Syria and to supervise the disengagement of their forces.  Ministerie van Defensie, NL/Wikimedia

Economic Activities

Agriculture, tourism, and wine production are major economic activities in the Golan Heights. The region is known for its fertile soil, which supports vineyards, orchards, and various crops.  MILNER MOSH/Israel Government Press Office/Flickr

Environmental Significance

The Golan Heights features diverse ecosystems, including forests, rivers, and volcanic formations. It is home to several nature reserves and parks, which attract tourists and conservationists alike.  CIA/Public Domain

Peace Negotiations

There have been multiple attempts to negotiate peace between Israel and Syria, with the status of the Golan Heights being a central issue. Despite these efforts, no agreement has been reached, and the region remains a point of contention in Middle Eastern politics.  photos8.com/Wikimedia

U.S. News

Vance influences

POLITICO’s Ian Ward spotlights seven figures who have influenced Vance, each promoting distinct and sometimes competing ideologies, share a common belief that the liberal project of progress has failed, particularly in the realms of economic liberalization, technological advancement, and social hierarchy leveling.

July 29, 2024

Vance Has Risen

JD Vance, a prominent figure within the MAGA movement, stands out as a national Republican deeply enmeshed in the elite conservative intellectual sphere, often referred to as "the New Right" or "the dissident right." His journey from a Never-Trump conservative to a fervent MAGA advocate has been significantly shaped by his relationships with a unique cadre of conservative thinkers and writers.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Vance's Influences

In a recent piece for POLITICO Ian Ward spotlights seven figures who have influenced Vance, each promoting distinct and sometimes competing ideologies, share a common belief that the liberal project of progress has failed, particularly in the realms of economic liberalization, technological advancement, and social hierarchy leveling.

He discussed his research and findings on DemocracyNow! with Amy Goodman.  DemocracyNow!

If the upcoming elections favor the GOP, their ideas could profoundly impact the future trajectory of the United States. Here are the key thinkers and groups that have shaped JD Vance’s political journey.  Canva

Patrick Deneen

A political theory professor at Notre Dame, known for critiquing liberalism and advocating for a communitarian, postliberal order focused on conservative and religious values.  Notre Dame

Peter Thiel

Tech billionaire, venture capitalist, and Vance’s former boss, promoting the idea that liberal ideologies and government bureaucracy have hindered technological and societal progress.  Wikimedia

Curtis Yarvin

Ex-computer programmer and neo-reactionary blogger, advocating for a monarchical leader to replace the current democratic oligarchy.  Wikimedia

René Girard

Philosopher and literary critic, known for his theories on mimetic rivalry and scapegoating, influencing Vance's conversion to Catholicism.  Wikimedia

Sohrab Ahmari

Writer and editor, advocating for a new style of working-class conservatism rooted in Catholic social democracy, close with Vance and a promoter of Trump and Vance’s politics.  Wikimedia

The Claremont Institute

Intellectual hub for the Trumpist right, advocating a return to founding American principles and opposing administrative state and “woke” initiatives, closely tied to Vance.  Claremont Institute

Rod Dreher

Orthodox Christian writer and leader of the “crunchy cons,” promoting a countercultural Christian conservatism, and a long-time supporter and friend of Vance.  Wikimedia

The Echo Chamber

From political theorists and venture capitalists to neo-reactionary bloggers and Orthodox Christian writers, these influential ideologues have collectively molded Vance's worldview, positioning him as a key player in the ongoing transformation of the Republican Party to a new, far.  Canva

U.S. News

People Like Harris: Fundraising, Favorability Soar

Kamala Harris has proven impressive in the first week of campaigning. Her campaign reports $200 million in contributions and 170,000 volunteer sign ups since Biden dropped out.

July 28, 2024

Fantastic First Week

Kamala Harris’s campaign raised $200 million in its first week, signaling strong initial support.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr;Canva

New Volunteer Surge

The campaign signed up 170,000 new volunteers within the same period.  Canva

New Donor Contributions

66% of the $200 million raised came from new donors, highlighting broadening support.  Canva

Addition to Biden’s Funds

The funds add to the disputed $95 million transferred from Biden’s campaign.  slgckgc/Flickr

Trump’s Complaint

Donald Trump filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission regarding the fund transfer from Biden’s campaign.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Immediate Endorsements

Harris secured enough delegate endorsements to win the Democratic nomination the day after Biden's withdrawal.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr;Canva

Biden’s Support

President Joe Biden withdrew from the race and endorsed Harris, boosting her campaign.  US Government/Rawpixel

Statement of Commitment

Harris expressed pride in earning the nomination and the support from her home state, California.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Democratic National Convention

The Democratic National Convention, where Harris will formally accept the nomination, is scheduled for August 19-22.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr;Canva

Rising Favorability

Harris’s favorability rating increased from 35% to 43% in the past week, according to an ABC News/Ipsos poll.  Canva

U.S. News

Candidate Harris Opens Dems to Crypto

Kamala Harris’s campaign is reaching out to top crypto companies like Coinbase and Ripple Labs to improve relations and counter Donald Trump’s strong support from the sector. The goal is to build a constructive relationship and reshape the perception that Democrats are anti-business, focusing on setting a smart regulatory framework.

July 28, 2024

Outreach to Crypto Companies

Kamala Harris’s advisers have approached top crypto companies to improve relations between the Democratic party and the crypto sector.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Key Targets for Engagement

The campaign has reached out to leading crypto companies such as Coinbase, Circle, and Ripple Labs.  Canva

Objective of Outreach

The main goal is to establish a constructive relationship and set a smart regulatory framework for the growth of the crypto industry.  Canva

Democratic Party's Image

Harris aims to change the perception that Democrats are anti-business, particularly among tech executives in California.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Previous Administration's Stance

The Biden administration faced criticism from the tech and crypto sectors, particularly on antitrust matters and regulatory approaches.  US Government

Funding and Support

Pro-crypto super PAC Fairshake has raised more than $200 million, with significant contributions from crypto industry leaders.  Fairshake

Key Figures and Endorsements

Venture capitalists Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz, previously Democratic supporters, now back Trump due to dissatisfaction with the current administration’s approach.  Wikimedia

Harris’s Strategy

Harris’s campaign is using the change in Democratic leadership as an opportunity to reset relations with the tech and crypto industries.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Kama Meme Coin

There was even a Kamala Harris memecoin which went 100x last week.  Coin Market Cap

Event Attendance

Despite being invited, Harris has decided not to attend the Bitcoin conference. Whereas Trump, who was formerly a vocal crypto skeptic, delivered a keynote speech which sounded more like one of his typical campaign rallies, full of insults and all.  Bitcoin Magazine/Youtube

RFK Outpromised Trump

Unlike Trump, Robert Kennedy spoke with apparent knowledge of the underlying technology and importance of blockchain and crypto markets. He said that under his presidency the Treasury woul be instructed to buy 500 Bitcoin daily.  Bitcoin Magazine/Youtube

Crypto Community’s Hope

Some crypto companies are hopeful that Harris will be more sympathetic to their needs and regulatory concerns.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Potential for Regulatory Change

The outreach signals a potential shift in how the Democratic party might regulate and interact with the crypto industry in the future.  

Good for All

Now, that the blockchain community is getting the attention of all leading White House prospectives, it indicates good things for the booming industry.  Canva

U.S. News

Trump Panders Newfound Love for Crypto at Bitcoin Conference

Donald Trump has changed his tune when it comes to support for cryptocurrency. He made this known at the Bitcoin 2024 Conference in Tennessee.

July 27, 2024

Trump's Crypto Vision

Former President Donald Trump, also a former blockchain critic, shared ambitious plans to promote cryptocurrency, aiming to make the US a "bitcoin superpower" and the "crypto capital of the planet" if elected for a second term.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Nashville Conference Address

Trump spoke at the Bitcoin 2024 conference in Nashville, Tennessee, where he outlined a vision for the future of crypto in the United States.  Canva

Crypto Advisory Council

Trump proposed the formation of a crypto advisory council, suggesting that industry supporters would help shape future regulations.  Canva

Bitcoin Strategic Reserve

Trump promised to create a bitcoin "strategic reserve" using the cryptocurrency currently held by the government.  Canva

Pro-Crypto Regulations

He assured the audience that regulations under his administration would be crafted by people who support the crypto industry, contrasting with current regulatory efforts.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Critique of Biden Administration

Trump criticized the Biden administration for its regulatory approach to cryptocurrency, claiming it was obstructing the industry's growth.  Gage Skidmore/Flickr

Made in the USA

Trump emphasized his desire for cryptocurrency to be "mined, minted, and made" in the United States, promoting domestic production.  Canva

Trump's Crypto U-Turn

Trump’s newfound support for cryptocurrency marks a significant shift from his previous stance, where he dismissed digital currencies as volatile and baseless.  Canva

Past Criticisms

In 2019, Trump called digital currencies "highly volatile" and referred to bitcoin as a "scam" two years later.  Canva

Embracing Digital Currency

Over the years, Trump has embraced digital currency, and his 2024 campaign has started accepting donations in cryptocurrency, reflecting his changed perspective.  Donald Trump White House Archive/Flickr

U.S. News

How the ‘Bonus Army’ Changed Veteran Rights Forever

The Bonus Army conflict of 1932 involved around 43,000 World War I veterans who marched to Washington, D.C., demanding early payment of bonuses promised to them for their service. Amid the Great Depression, the veterans set up a large encampment, but were forcibly evicted by the U.S. Army on orders from President Herbert Hoover. The violent eviction drew public outrage and highlighted the need for better veteran support. This event contributed to Hoover’s defeat in the 1932 election and influenced future policies. The lessons learned from the Bonus Army’s struggles helped shape the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, known as the G.I. Bill, which provided extensive benefits to World War II veterans and aimed to prevent similar economic hardships for returning soldiers.

July 27, 2024

What was the Bonus Army?

The Bonus Army was a group of approximately 43,000 World War I veterans, their families, and affiliated groups who marched to Washington, D.C., in the summer of 1932.  

Main Demand

The veterans were demanding early payment of a bonus that had been promised to them by the government for their service in World War I, which was originally scheduled to be paid in 1945.  

Context of the Protest

The march took place during the Great Depression, a period of severe economic hardship, high unemployment, and widespread poverty in the United States.  

Key Figures

Walter W. Waters, a former sergeant, emerged as a prominent leader of the Bonus Army. He organized and led the veterans in their efforts to lobby Congress for the early payment of their bonuses.  

The Encampment

The veterans set up a large, makeshift camp in Washington, D.C., known as a "Hooverville," after President Herbert Hoover. The camp was located on the Anacostia Flats, near the U.S. Capitol.

On July 27, 1932, the D.C. police attempted to deliver eviction notices to the veterans, demanding that they vacate their encampments.  

Government Response

President Hoover initially allowed the veterans to peacefully protest, but as the demonstration dragged on, he ordered the U.S. Army to forcibly remove the protesters.

Small clashes between the police and veterans started to break out on July 27, setting the stage for the larger conflict that would erupt the following day.  

Military Action

On July 28, 1932, the Bonus Army conflict reached its peak. Under the command of General Douglas MacArthur, along with Major Dwight D. Eisenhower and Major George S. Patton, troops used tear gas, cavalry, and tanks to evict the veterans from their makeshift camps.  

Outcome

The eviction was violent, resulting in the destruction of the veterans' camp and several injuries. Two veterans were killed during the conflict.  

Public Reaction

The brutal eviction of the Bonus Army was widely condemned by the public and media. It contributed to President Hoover's unpopularity and was a factor in his defeat in the 1932 presidential election.  

Veterans' Advocacy

The experiences of the Bonus Army helped galvanize veterans' groups and advocates to push for better benefits and support systems for veterans.  

A New Deal for Veterans

Initially, President Roosevelt was opposed to the early payment of the bonuses. However, he did implement some relief measures for veterans, such as offering them jobs in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC).  

World War II and the G.I. Bill

During World War II, the lessons learned from the Bonus Army conflict and the economic struggles of World War I veterans influenced policymakers. There was a strong desire to avoid similar issues for returning World War II veterans.  

Legislative Action

In 1944, Congress passed the Servicemen's Readjustment Act, commonly known as the G.I. Bil which provided comprehensive benefits to World War II veterans, including education, housing, and unemployment assistance.  

Purpose of the G.I. Bill

The G.I. Bill aimed to help veterans reintegrate into civilian life, avoid mass unemployment, and provide economic opportunities, thus addressing many of the issues that had plagued the Bonus Army veterans.  

Legacy

The G.I. Bill is considered one of the most significant pieces of social legislation in U.S. history. It helped millions of veterans achieve higher education, home ownership, and economic stability, profoundly shaping the post-war American economy and society.  

Continued Relevance

The story of the Bonus Army and the subsequent creation of the G.I. Bill underscore the importance of learning from past mistakes and ensuring that veterans receive the support and recognition they deserve.  

Relevance to Today

The Bonus Army conflict highlights issues of veterans' rights, government accountability, and the social safety net.  DC Public Library

An Enduring Reminder

It serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting those who have served in the military and addressing economic inequalities, which remain relevant in contemporary discussions about veterans' benefits and social justice.  Public Domain

U.S. News

Kamala Harris’s Likely VP Picks

Now that Kamala Harris the the presumptive Presidential nominee for the Democrats, everyone wants to know who she will pick as her running mate. Here are 8 names that are being floated.

July 27, 2024

Not a Done Deal for Dems

Just a few weeks ago, it was looking like the 2024 Presidential elections were a done deal. There was a bunk debate, an assassination attempt on the Republican frontrunner and nominee, a handful of Biden gaffs, a dizzying RNC, the President getting COVID, and donations to Biden coming to a near halt.  

Biden Passes the Torch

After the series of cascading events, it looked like things couldn't get much more unsettling for American voters. That's when President Biden dropped out of the race, stating he would not be seeking a second term.  Adam Schultz/Biden for President/Flickr

Kamala Quickly Clinched

President Biden offered his support to VP Kamala Harris to become the next Democratic nominee for President. Within days she clinched enough delegates to earn the nomination. Harris immediately broke campaign fundraising records.  Joe Biden/Flickr

Now Who?

Now, Harris has to pick her running mate. So, who's being discussed?  Gage Skidmore/Wikimedia License

Senator Mark Kelly

Resume Highlights: Navy captain, astronaut, Senator of Arizona
Strengths: Strong fundraising, key swing state, centrist on immigration
Weaknesses: Low name recognition, labor union criticism  Gage Skidmore/Flikr

Governor Josh Shapiro

Resume Highlights: Governor of Pennsylvania, former attorney general
Strengths: Bipartisan achievements, high state approval, critical swing state
Weaknesses: Moderate on key Democratic issues, low national recognition  Governor Tom Wolf/Wikimedia License

Gov. Andy Beshear

Resume Highlights: Governor of Kentucky, disaster response leader
Strengths: Popular in conservative state, young, term-limited
Weaknesses: Low national recognition, no swing state advantage  Tkayne/Wikimedia License

Gov. Roy Cooper

Resume Highlights: Governor of North Carolina, Medicaid expansion
Strengths: Moderate appeal, critical swing state
Weaknesses: Limited campaigning ability, older candidate  NC Dept of Public Safety/Flickr

Sec. Pete Buttigieg

Resume Highlights: U.S. Transportation Secretary, former mayor
Strengths: Communication across spectrum, military service, popular among Democrats
Weaknesses: Transportation issues, potential party rival, young and less room to grow  Greg Skidmore/Flickr

Gov. J.B. Pritzker

Resume Highlights: Governor of Illinois, progressive policy achievements
Strengths: Wealth, low name recognition allows growth
Weaknesses: Low popularity, richest politician, not a swing state  Defense Visual Information Distribution Service/Public Domain

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

Resume Highlights: Governor of Michigan, high-profile legislation
Strengths: Popular, high name ID, policy achievements
Weaknesses: Not interested in VP, concerns about all-female ticket  Defense Visual Information Distribution Service/Public Domain

Gov. Tim Walz

Resume Highlights: Governor of Minnesota, Democratic Governors Association leader
Strengths: Fundraising connections, progressive lawmaking
Weaknesses: Relatively unpopular, unknown nationwide  Office of Governor Tim Walz/Flickr