Should Krysten Sinema Run for Vice President?

Krysten Sinema has been a prominent figure in American politics, particularly in Arizona, where her support for key issues continues to influence voter behavior. However, the question of whether she should run for Vice President in 2024 remains contentious. Let's dive into the factors that contribute to her potential viability as a running mate and the challenges she faces.

Support Among True Americans

According to many observers, Sinema's continued support for issues that resonate with 'True Americans' could be a decisive factor in future elections. If her platform and policies continue to align with the concerns of her base, she could potentially garner more support in the coming years. However, it's important to consider the broader political climate and the perceptions of Sinema among different factions.

A Critical State: Arizona

Arizona, often called the 'hub' of future elections, will play a pivotal role in determining the success of any political candidate. For Krysten Sinema, maintaining a strong base in Arizona is crucial. Her performance in the 2018 Senate election, where she won with just 49.96% of the vote, highlights the narrow margins involved. While she managed to edge out Republican Martha McSally, the results indicate a fragile victory. This puts her strategic viability into question, especially given the potential challenges in reeling in a different electorate.

The Party Woes

The political dynamics between Sinema and the broader parties are complex. Her support has seen her gain some traction among Republicans, but this support is not overwhelming. On the Democratic side, there is enough dislike of Sinema that putting her on the 2024 presidential ticket could reduce voter turnout. This is a critical consideration, as politics in the United States is all about numbers. In the highly competitive landscape of the 2024 election, the idea of having a candidate who might not be well-received by one major party is a risky proposition.

Electoral Appeal and Popularity

The conventional wisdom that centrists fare well in elections may hold true to some extent. However, it's also important to consider that the majority of voters, regardless of party affiliation, prefer politicians who materially improve their quality of life. Simply being centrist is not enough. Sinema would need to show a clear track record of supporting popular policies and improving the lives of those she represents.

Strategic Voting and Running Mate Selection

Given these challenges, it's clear that Sinema's candidacy as a running mate is not without its drawbacks. She has advantages, such as her status as a swing state candidate and her moderate stance, but these are largely outweighed by the risks. For instance, being divorced and bisexual, Sinema faces stereotypes and biases that could hinder her appeal. Additionally, other candidates, such as Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, bring unique qualifications and strengths that make them more strategically sound choices for a running mate.

Conclusion

For Krysten Sinema to run for Vice President in 2024 will require more than just name recognition and a moderate political stance. She needs to address the concerns of both parties and demonstrate a clear alignment with popular policies. While she has her merits, strategic considerations suggest that a different candidate, like Gretchen Whitmer, would better serve the Biden campaign's goals and voter base. The decision should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of her current standing and the strategic needs of the 2024 election.