Nearly a week after President Biden’s disastrous performance in a presidential debate, multiple current and former House Democrats are signaling they would back Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor if the 81-year-old leader chooses to step aside.
Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa., a member of the House’s progressive “Squad,” joined a radio show and warned Democrats that time is running out to decide whether to change course. She emphasized that there wouldn’t be time for a primary and described Vice President Harris as the obvious choice.
Lee also highlighted the importance of not sidelining Harris and recognized the significant voter turnout rates among Black women. Her statements were echoed by Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., a longtime Biden ally, who expressed support for Harris as the nominee if Biden were to drop out.
Former Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, who challenged Biden for the 2020 presidential nomination, wrote an op-ed advocating for Harris to be the Democratic nominee in 2024. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre addressed speculation about Harris, emphasizing that Biden would not drop out and praising Harris as the future of the party.
Questions about Biden’s physical and mental condition arose during the debate in Atlanta. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, became the first sitting House Democrat to call for Biden to withdraw from the race, but a Biden campaign spokesperson confirmed that he had no intention of dropping out. However, if he did, Harris would inherit the substantial campaign war chest.
Other potential replacements for Biden mentioned include California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The discussions surrounding Biden’s potential replacement have sparked conversations within the Democratic Party about the future leadership and direction of the party. It remains to be seen how these developments will impact the upcoming elections and the overall political landscape.