Independent presidential contender, Cornel West, is poised to unveil his vice presidential running mate on Tavis Smiley’s radio program this Wednesday, as confirmed by his campaign team. The much-anticipated announcement is scheduled to air at noon ET.
West Coast VP Pick Aligns with West’s Values
During the radio show, West will delve into the reasons why his vice presidential selection, a West Coast-based individual who, like West, has never held an elected office, is the perfect match for his political values. This revelation comes directly from a campaign official. West and his running mate will also make a joint appearance on the show.
Joint Rally in Queens, New York
Later this month, the pair will make a joint public appearance at a rally in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens, New York. “On Wednesday, we will joyfully open a new chapter in this ‘moment in a movement,’ by announcing a committed candidate for Vice President who stands in solidarity with poor, oppressed and forgotten people everywhere,” West stated.
Running Mate Announcement Crucial for Ballot Access
Like his fellow independent presidential candidate, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., West needs to announce a running mate to earnestly compete for ballot access across the country. Currently, the campaign has secured a spot on the ballot in Alaska, Oregon, South Carolina, and Utah. In Utah, West will run as an independent, while in the other three states, he will be affiliated with minor parties.
West’s Previous Green Party Nomination Attempt
West had initially declared his intention to run for the Green Party’s 2024 nomination last year, but withdrew from the race amidst criticism from some leading leftists.
Plans to Secure Ballot Access in New York
The campaign has expressed plans to work towards gaining ballot access in New York, where they boast a robust organization and a dedicated volunteer base. “I think it’s highly likely that we’ll come out on the ballot in New York,” a spokesperson for West stated.