In the world of politics, the selection of a vice presidential running mate is always a hot topic of discussion. As the presumptive Democratic nominee for the 2020 presidential election, Joe Biden has been under intense scrutiny over the potential candidates for his vice presidential pick. One name that has generated significant buzz is Senator Kamala Harris, who is a leading contender for the role.
Despite Senator Harris’s impressive credentials and experience, there exists a pervasive assumption among many political commentators and pundits that she will have to select a white man as her vice presidential pick. This assumption is grounded in a complex interplay of gender, race, and power dynamics that have historically shaped American politics.
One key factor driving this assumption is the existing power dynamics within the Democratic Party. Historically, white men have dominated politics, holding the majority of leadership positions and wielding significant influence. This entrenched power structure has created an implicit expectation that a woman of color like Senator Harris would need to balance the ticket by selecting a white male running mate.
Additionally, there is an underlying skepticism about the electability of women and people of color in high-stakes political races. Despite the increasing diversity of the American electorate, old stereotypes and biases still linger, with many believing that a white man on the ticket provides a sense of reassurance and familiarity to voters.
Furthermore, the media plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions and expectations. Media coverage of political candidates is often filtered through a lens of gender and race, with biases and stereotypes influencing how candidates are perceived by the public. This can create a self-fulfilling prophecy, further reinforcing the assumption that Senator Harris would need to pick a white man as her vice presidential nominee.
Critics of this assumption argue that it perpetuates a narrow and outdated view of leadership and representation in politics. By relegating women and people of color to supporting roles, it undermines their ability to compete on an equal footing and perpetuates systemic inequalities.
In conclusion, the assumption that Senator Kamala Harris would have to select a white man as her vice presidential pick is a reflection of the complex interplay of power dynamics, biases, and expectations that shape American politics. While progress has been made in diversifying political leadership, there is still much work to be done to challenge and change these entrenched assumptions and create a more inclusive and equitable political landscape.