Amidst growing concerns over President Joe Biden's age and performance, allies of Vice President Kamala Harris are quietly strategizing for a potential scenario where Biden steps aside before the 2024 election. Despite Biden's public insistence on running for reelection, whispers of a Plan B have emerged within Democratic circles, especially after several notable public stumbles and diminishing approval ratings.
President Biden, who would be 82 at the start of a second term, has faced increasing scrutiny over his cognitive abilities and physical health.
Remember when Kamala Harris smiles and claps along to a Puerto Rico protest song but stops after aide tells her that they’re protesting her?
She doesn’t have dementia.
She’s just not smart.
pic.twitter.com/OhzjC9ooEE— Being Libertarian (@beinlibertarian) July 2, 2024
Special counsel Robert Hur’s recent report, describing Biden as a "well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory" and "diminished faculties," has only added fuel to the fire, leading some Democrats to question his viability as the party's nominee.
Vice President Kamala Harris, considered by many as the natural successor, has faced her own set of challenges. Despite her historic role as the first Black, Indian American, and female vice president, Harris has struggled with low approval ratings and internal office turnover. However, she remains a key figure in the administration, tackling significant issues like voting rights and abortion restrictions.
🇺🇸 Trump talks Kamala Harris with Tucker:
“She speaks in rhyme. It’s weird, the whole thing is weird”
“The bus will go here and then the bus will go there because that’s what buses do”
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) July 3, 2024
If Biden were to step aside, the Democratic Party would face a complex process to select a new nominee. The current political landscape makes a seamless transition difficult, as procedural hurdles would require Biden to voluntarily step down. In such a case, Biden would likely release his delegates, sparking a scramble among potential successors in the run-up to the Democratic National Convention in August.
Among the potential contenders, California Governor Gavin Newsom has been a prominent supporter of Biden, defending the president's record and urging the party to stay united. Newsom's high profile and successful tenure in California position him as a strong candidate if the need arises. Other names mentioned include Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, both of whom have built significant national profiles and possess strong support within the party.
Despite the discussions, Biden's allies remain adamant that he will continue his campaign, emphasizing his legislative accomplishments and experience. However, the ongoing debate underscores the anxiety within the Democratic Party as they prepare for a contentious election against former President Donald Trump, who remains a dominant force in the Republican Party.
As the Democratic Party navigates these uncertainties, the role of Vice President Harris becomes increasingly pivotal. Whether as Biden's running mate or as a potential nominee, Harris's ability to unify the party and energize key voter blocs will be crucial in the months leading up to the election.
just put trump back in charge