Independent presidential candidate Cornel West is set to announce his vice presidential running mate on Tavis Smiley’s radio program. The West Coast-based candidate, who has never held elected office, aligns with West’s values and the two will appear together on the show. They will also attend a rally in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens, New York later this month as part of their campaign efforts.
West stated that the announcement of his running mate will mark the beginning of a new chapter in his campaign, emphasizing the importance of standing in solidarity with poor, oppressed, and forgotten people. Like fellow independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., West needs to name a running mate in order to compete to get on ballots across the country in a more serious manner. Currently, the campaign is on the ballot in Alaska, Oregon, South Carolina, and Utah, running as an independent in Utah and being connected to minor parties in the other three states.
Initially, West had planned to run for the Green Party’s nomination in 2024 but faced criticism from some leading leftists, causing him to abandon that campaign. Despite this setback, the campaign remains optimistic about their future prospects, with plans to work on getting on the ballot in New York where they have a strong organization and dedicated volunteers. A spokesperson for the campaign expressed confidence that they will likely secure a spot on the ballot in New York in the coming weeks.
The announcement of West’s vice presidential pick is a significant development in his campaign, as it provides a clearer picture of the values and priorities he stands for. By choosing a running mate who shares his commitment to marginalized communities, West demonstrates his dedication to advocating for justice and equality. The joint appearance on Tavis Smiley’s radio program and the upcoming rally in Queens serve as opportunities for the campaign to connect with voters and communicate their message effectively.
As an independent candidate, West faces challenges in gaining ballot access across the country, which is why the selection of a vice presidential candidate is a crucial step in his campaign strategy. By expanding his presence in key states and building a strong organizational network, West aims to increase his visibility and appeal to a broader range of voters. The decision to run as an independent in Utah and align with minor parties in other states reflects the campaign’s flexibility and adaptability in navigating diverse political landscapes.
Overall, West’s campaign is focused on amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and advocating for social justice and equity. The announcement of his vice presidential running mate signals a new phase in his campaign, characterized by a commitment to inclusivity, solidarity, and grassroots mobilization. With plans to expand their presence in key states and connect with voters through various events and media platforms, West’s campaign aims to challenge the status quo and offer a progressive alternative in the upcoming election.
