Biden and his team vetted Whitmer as a potential running mate during their 2020 Democratic Party vice presidential candidate selection, with Biden confirming she was on his shortlist in March. Michigan's status as a key swing state was seen as boosting her prospects of being selected. "The New York Times" reported that she was one of four finalists for the position, along with Kamala Harris, Susan Rice, and Elizabeth Warren. Harris was ultimately selected. By some reporting, Whitmer removed herself from consideration, urging Biden to choose a black woman instead. While Whitmer was not selected, her consideration for the position further elevated her national stature.