Senator Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., has deflected questions about his potential interest in a Cabinet-level role in a potential Kamala Harris administration, emphasizing his focus on ensuring Harris’ victory in the November election, Fox News reports.
Speaking with Fox News Digital following his address at the Veterans and Military Families Council meeting during the Democratic National Convention, Kelly was asked about his interest in positions like Secretary of Defense or Secretary of Homeland Security.
“I’m focused on doing everything I possibly can over the next 77 days to make sure that Tim Walz and Kamala Harris are successful on November 5th. That’s my goal,” he said.
The response mirrors his previous comments when he was considered as a potential running mate for Harris. Kelly’s background as a 25-year Navy combat veteran makes him a strong candidate for the Secretary of Defense position, while his role as a senator from a border state with strong views on immigration positions him well for the DHS role.
Kelly’s focus on veteran issues is a key component of his campaign message. He criticized Donald Trump’s alleged disrespect for veterans, citing reports that the former president referred to deceased soldiers as “suckers” and “losers.” Though Trump denies the claims, Kelly maintains that “President Harris will make sure that we continue to modernize our military, to make sure our service members can win in conflicts.”
Kelly also stresssed the palpable energy surrounding the Democratic National Convention, noting that Harris’ recent rally in Arizona, a state often considered “red,” generated unprecedented enthusiasm. He predicted that this momentum would continue to build, stating that “it’s going to be off the charts” by October.
