Biden: I’ll have a running mate picked next week

Former Vice President Joe Biden told reporters on Tuesday that he would have his 2020 running mate selected by the first week of the month of August, which begins on Saturday.

“I’m going to have a choice the first week in August and I promise, I’ll let you know when I do,” Biden said during a question-and-answer session with reporters in Wilmington, Del.

The presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, however, did not specify when he would publicly announce his decision. 

The development comes as speculation surrounding the candidates for the position heats up. 

Biden had pledged earlier this year at a Democratic primary debate against then-contender Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) that he would nominate a woman to be his running mate. 

Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) is seen as the favorite for the spot, but a number of others are also being considered, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and former national security adviser Susan Rice. 

Biden is also considering Rep. Val Demings (D-Calif.) and Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.), who was seen with Biden at the Capitol last night during the public viewing for the late Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.). Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms (D), Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D), New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham (D), Illinois Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D) and Wisconsin Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D) have also been floated. 

Biden had previously indicated that he might announcing his vice presidential pick by the end of July.