Vice President Kamala Harris stands as the leading alternative to President Joe Biden should he opt out of his re-election campaign, according to senior sources within the Democratic party. This revelation comes amid growing concerns about Biden’s fitness for a second term, sparked by his recent debate performance against Republican rival Donald Trump.
Kamala has the edge over other candidates
While some Democrats have proposed other candidates like Governors Gavin Newsom, Gretchen Whitmer, and Josh Shapiro, insiders argue that bypassing Harris would prove nearly impossible. As the current vice president, Harris would inherit Biden’s campaign infrastructure and funding, giving her a significant advantage.
Recent polling shows Harris’s viability as a candidate. A Reuters/Ipsos poll places her just one percentage point behind Trump, within the margin of error. This statistical tie mirrors Biden’s performance, suggesting Harris could be a formidable contender.
Democrats say she will get first priority
Harris’s potential nomination garners support from key Democratic figures. Representative Jim Clyburn, instrumental in Biden’s 2020 victory, has expressed his backing for Harris if Biden steps aside. Democratic strategist Michael Trujillo emphasizes the difficulty of winning the nomination over a sitting vice president.
The Biden campaign has already secured 3,894 delegates, with Harris’s team dismissing any speculation about a ticket without both Biden and Harris. Former DNC chair Donna Brazile reinforces this stance, stating that Harris is the natural successor if Biden chooses not to run.
Kamala faces big challenges
However, Harris faces challenges. Some influential Democrats question her ability to defeat Trump, and she has struggled to define her role as vice president. Her approval ratings hover below 40%, though recent polls suggest she matches Biden’s odds against Trump.
Despite these concerns, Democratic donors acknowledge the impossibility of sidestepping Harris. Her position as the first Black and woman vice president makes her crucial for maintaining support from key voter demographics.
As the debate over Democratic leadership continues, the Biden campaign remains steadfast. Stephanie Cutter, a veteran Democratic strategist, warns against an interparty fight, asserting it would ensure a Trump victory.
With the Democratic National Convention approaching in August, all eyes remain on Biden and Harris as they navigate the complexities of the 2024 election landscape.
With inputs from Reuters
