Rep. Val Demings during impeachment: His crimes against the American people remain in progress

Congresswoman Val Demings (D-Fla.) delivers closing remarks during the impeachment trial of President Donald J. Trump. This clip is from February 3, 2020.

“It’s almost laughable to hear the president defend law enforcement now,” said Rep. Val Demings on a recent Democratic conference call. “This is the president, remember how well I know, who considers himself above the law and everyone else beneath it.”

With these two lines, the Florida Democrat unwittingly captured both why she belongs on Joe Biden’s vice presidential shortlist, and why she could be a risky choice for a running mate.

The first Black woman to serve as chief of police in Orlando, Florida, Demings was elected to Congress in 2016 to represent the Sunshine State’s 10th district, which includes parts of the city.

But today, with the nation at a political and cultural crossroads, Demings seems like a politician who was made for this moment. Weeks of nationwide protests against police killings of unarmed Black people are forcing Americans to confront the reality of systemic racism. Meanwhile, in cities and towns across the country, ordinary people are asking tough questions about the fundamental purpose of law enforcement.

Demings, 63, can offer an uncommon insight into both of these national debates. She also hails from the swingiest swing state, Florida, a state Trump won in 2016, but which Democrats hope to retake in November. Indeed, recent polling suggests that Biden has a lead over Trump in the state.

Demings’ unique resume and life experience, along with the talent for oratory she revealed last winter while serving as an impeachment manager in Trump’s trial, make the second-term congresswoman seem like an ideal running mate for Biden.

But Demings’ greatest strength is also her greatest weakness.



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