Why Gretchen Whitmer's stock is rising with Team Biden [View all]

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s rising profile during the coronavirus pandemic has boosted her stock with Joe Biden’s presidential campaign, with some allies making the case that she would make a perfect running mate for the former vice president. Biden allies, including major donors and longtime advisers, say they like her combative approach to President Trump coupled with her calm, well-spoken demeanor.

Whitmer’s stock is also rising because she governs a state Democrats saw slip away in 2016. Biden scored a huge victory over Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) in the Michigan primary, and Democrats are desperate to win the state back in the 2020 general election.

“A governor by definition is appealing,” said Philippe Reines, a longtime adviser to Hillary Clinton. “You don’t see anyone saying Senator X is handling this well. Governors are executives with different responsibilities that at this moment in time are more vital than a legislative background, no matter how impressive.”

“Most importantly, this pandemic is going to be with us long past November,” Reines added. “Either directly or its economic and societal impact. Having a vice president with firsthand experience to lean on would be hugely helpful.”



https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/491049-why-gretchen-whitmers-stock-is-rising-with-team-biden