More House Democrats consider Kamala as a replacement for Biden
After a tumultuous week following President Biden’s disappointing performance in a presidential debate, the buzz around Vice President Kamala Harris potentially succeeding him is growing louder among current and former House Democrats.
Rep. Summer Lee of Pennsylvania, a member of the House’s progressive “Squad,” voiced her support for Harris on a radio show, emphasizing the urgency of making a decision if Biden chooses to step down. Lee highlighted that there wouldn’t be time for a primary election, making Harris the logical choice as the next leader.
Lee also pointed out the risk of overlooking Harris, especially considering the significant voter turnout rates among Black women. She warned of the repercussions of neglecting an entire demographic in the political landscape.
Meanwhile, Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, a key Biden ally, stopped short of expressing concerns about the president’s viability but indicated that he would back Harris if Biden were to withdraw from the race. Clyburn stressed the importance of supporting Harris and not trying to work around her in any way.
Former Rep. Tim Ryan of Ohio, who contested Biden for the Democratic nomination in 2020, penned an op-ed advocating for Harris to be the party’s nominee for president in 2024. These endorsements underscore the growing support for Harris within the Democratic ranks.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed speculation about Harris’s potential elevation, affirming that Biden has no intention of stepping down. Jean-Pierre emphasized that Harris represents the future of the Democratic Party and highlighted their successful partnership in serving the American people.
The debate about Biden’s physical and mental condition became a focal point during a recent event in Atlanta, bringing to light concerns within the party about his ability to continue as the presidential contender.
A watershed moment occurred when Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas became the first sitting House Democrat to call for Biden to exit the race. This bold move was followed by additional Democratic representatives expressing doubts about Biden’s chances against Trump in the upcoming election.
Notably, Harris’s supporters have emphasized that if she were to succeed Biden, she would inherit a substantial campaign war chest of $240 million, giving her a strong financial foundation for the race.
While Harris is a frontrunner for a potential succession, other names have been floated as potential replacements for Biden, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, among others.
The speculation surrounding Biden’s future and the growing support for Harris reflect the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party as it prepares for the upcoming political landscape.
