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With uncertainty surrounding President Joe Biden’s potential step aside, informal discussions among Democrats highlight Vice President Kamala Harris as the likely nominee. Internal polls suggest Harris could boost enthusiasm and support down-ballot races. Some advocate for a swift transition process, while others resist a coronation read more
 "Democrats weigh Kamala Harris as Joe Biden’s possible successor for prez nominee")
Many Democrats believe Kamala Harris could be a good President, according to a recent AP-NORC poll. Reuters
The process for selecting a new nominee if President Joe Biden steps aside remains unclear, but many Democrats now believe Vice President Kamala Harris is the likely choice. Informal discussions have been ongoing, but uncertainty has kept Democrats with concerns about Biden from opposing him, fearing greater chaos.
Uncertainty and informal discussions
Internal polls showing Harris boosting Democratic enthusiasm and aiding down-ballot races are circulating. The idea of her quickly assembling a campaign and actively challenging Donald Trump is gaining traction. Many are holding off on hypotheticals as Biden’s aides say he will resume campaigning next week after recovering from Covid-19. However, leading Democratic politicians and operatives told CNN they believe Harris is the inevitable choice if Biden steps down.
Some push for a swift, discreet process where delegates approve the transition, while others oppose a coronation due to preference for other candidates or concerns about optics. Rapid primaries or town halls have been suggested, but no consensus exists on implementation with limited time before the election and the convention in Chicago.
The case for Kamala Harris
Democratic members of Congress calling for Biden to step down have not committed to supporting Harris. Party loyalty and future ambitions would likely compel other potential candidates to support her. Unifying after recent infighting will be crucial, and challenging Harris risks damaging reputations ahead of a potential 2028 primary.
Some believe the issue could be resolved at the convention in August, with pressure for resolution intensifying. Harris’s handling of recent crises and loyalty to Biden have impressed many. Few envision Biden stepping aside without endorsing Harris, which would be seen as a severe insult and undermine his judgment in choosing her.
Potential paths forward
Eleni Kounalakis, California’s lieutenant governor and a Democratic convention delegate, stressed Biden’s primary victories with Harris’s support. An open process could prolong drama and weaken support from the Congressional Black Caucus, essential for grassroots mobilisation and voter enthusiasm.
Swing-district Democrats see little benefit in a prolonged battle to test a new party leader. “The internal fight is killing us. There is no world in which you can push Kamala to the side,” one Democratic member told CNN anonymously.
Opponents of Harris have not changed their views. Biden is considering these factors as he decides. Some progressives privately trust Biden more than Harris to align with their agenda. The political conversation in Washington lags behind public perception, where internal polls and donor data hold less sway.
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English (US) ·