Democratic party appears to be gearing around Kamala Harris
Our Bureau
Washington, DC
Speculation and informal discussions within the Democratic party have intensified over the potential succession of Vice President Kamala Harris as the nominee should President Joe Biden step aside, CNN reported.
The process of selecting a new nominee remains uncertain, but an increasing number of Democrats believe that any transition would likely culminate swiftly with Harris assuming the mantle.
Discussions regarding the contingency plan to replace Biden at the top of the ticket have been ongoing behind closed doors for weeks. However, the ambiguity surrounding the process has caused hesitation among some Democrats who have reservations about openly challenging Biden’s candidature, wary that the ensuing process could prove even more chaotic.
While consensus has not universally coalesced, a prevailing sense of exhaustion is beginning to solidify into agreement. Internal polls suggesting Harris could potentially enhance Democratic enthusiasm and support down-ballot have circulated among party circles. Arguments in favour of her ability to swiftly organise a campaign have gained traction. Furthermore, there is a growing sentiment that Harris could vigorously confront Donald Trump, a prospect that resonates favourably in many quarters.
Despite the reluctance of some to engage in hypothetical scenarios, Biden’s aides have indicated his intention to resume campaigning next week following his recovery from COVID-19. Nonetheless, several leading Democratic figures and operatives have conveyed to CNN their difficulty envisioning any outcome other than Harris assuming the nomination if circumstances suddenly change.
Efforts are being made to advocate for a rapid and streamlined process where delegates would ratify the transition as part of a planned pre-convention virtual nomination strategy. However, opinions are divided on the notion of a coronation, with some preferring alternative candidates or objecting to the optics of such a move. The feasibility of instituting a series of rapid-fire primaries or town halls remains contentious, particularly given the tight timeline of just over 100 days until the election and the imminent Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
Nevertheless, supporters of Harris are supportive of the idea, confident that few serious contenders would challenge her candidature despite her behind-the-scenes bravado. Notably, several Democratic members of Congress who have publicly called for Biden to consider stepping aside declined to explicitly endorse Harris as the alternative nominee when queried by CNN on Friday.
Republican strategists, on the other hand, have seized upon the prospect of Harris assuming the nomination, anticipating potential vulnerabilities to exploit. They aim to revive past criticisms and leverage concerns about her role in the administration’s decision-making processes, particularly regarding Biden’s health and the effects of ageing.
The possibility of Harris assuming the nomination represents not just a political decision but a potentially transformative moment for the Democratic Party, fraught with implications for the upcoming election and beyond, CNN reported.
