Gov. Roy Cooper opts out of VP vetting

Governor Cooper has decided not to pursue the role of Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate. This decision is partly due to the fact that his Republican Lieutenant Governor would take over when he is out of state. Cooper, a term-limited governor from a key battleground state, was a strong contender for the position.

What is the significance of Cooper's state in the context of the election?

Why was Cooper considered a top contender for the job?