Could Kamala Harris Seize the 2024 Democratic Presidential Nomination if Biden Withdraws

President Joe Biden is fighting to secure his political future as doubts within his own party escalate following a disappointing debate performance and the name of VP Kamala Harris doing rounds for the 2024 Presidential election.

With a critical Independence Day gathering at the White House, Biden hopes to regroup and strategize for what could be the most crucial 48 hours of his political career.

Rising Doubts Within the Democratic Party

Speculation about Biden’s potential withdrawal from the race has intensified, but the president remains resolute.

“I am running. I’m the nominee of the Democratic Party. No one’s pushing me out. I’m not leaving,” Biden declared on a phone call with campaign staff.

This declaration came amid increasing calls for him to step aside, with Rep. Raúl Grijalva of Arizona suggesting Biden should consider stepping out to ensure the Democratic seat is retained.

Polling Woes

Recent polling data paints a grim picture for Biden.

A New York Times/Siena College survey shows former President Donald Trump leading Biden 49% to 43% among likely voters.

Similarly, a CNN Poll of Polls indicates a 49% to 44% split in favor of Trump. Biden, who entered the debate trailing Trump, has seen his numbers dip further, failing to leverage the debate as a reset moment.

Kamala Harris: A Key Contender

As Biden’s position weakens, attention turns to possible Democratic contenders who might replace him. Vice President Kamala Harris is a prominent name in the mix.

Polling suggests a close race between Kamala Harris and Trump, with an Ipsos poll showing Trump narrowly leading Kamala Harris 43% to 42%. The same poll indicates a tie between Biden and Trump at 40% each.

Kamala Harris on the Campaign Trail

Vice President Kamala Harris has been actively campaigning, touting Biden’s accomplishments and emphasizing their joint vision for the country.

“Look, Joe Biden is our nominee. We beat Trump once, and we’re going to beat him again,” Kamala Harris told CBS News Tuesday evening.

Other Democratic Contenders

Gretchen Whitmer
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a potential 2028 candidate, trails Trump in polls.

She has pushed back against Republican critics including Trump, particularly ones who criticized her pandemic policies.

The Ipsos poll had Whitmer trailing Trump 36% to 41% in a 2024 race while the CNN poll had her 42% to Trump’s 47%.

Whitmer, who was scheduled to attend an meeting at the White House with the president and other Democratic governors Wednesday, defended Biden’s debate performance in a statement Friday.

Gavin Newsom
California Governor Gavin Newsom remains a staunch Biden supporter. He criticized calls for Biden to step down, urging Democrats to back the president despite the debate performance.

Andy Beshear
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, viewed as a rising star, downplayed speculation about his candidacy, focusing on his achievements in Kentucky and the support from Biden and Kamala Harris.

J.B. Pritzker
Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, a vocal Biden supporter, reaffirmed his commitment to Biden’s campaign, stating Biden will remain the nominee unless he decides otherwise.

Pete Buttigieg
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg dismissed calls to replace Biden, highlighting Biden’s leadership and ability to guide the country forward.

Michelle Obama
Despite repeated denials of interest in running, former First Lady Michelle Obama remains a popular figure among some voters, leading Trump 50% to 39% in an Ipsos poll.

The Path Ahead

As Biden faces mounting pressure and challenging poll numbers, the coming days will be pivotal in determining his campaign’s direction.

With Vice President Kamala Harris and other prominent Democrats in the spotlight, the Democratic Party must navigate a turbulent landscape to unify and strengthen its position against Donald Trump.

Also Read: New Poll Shows Trump Taking Lead Over Biden in Key Battleground States After First 2024 Debate