Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as a potential successor to President Joe Biden in the 2024 election, as pressure mounts for Biden to step aside. Top Democrats see Harris as the natural choice, particularly given Biden’s repeated insistence on running for reelection.
However, questions linger about her viability as the Democratic nominee, particularly her ability to defeat Donald Trump. While some polls suggest she could outperform Biden against Trump, concerns remain about her ability to attract moderate Democrats and independent voters.
Harris’s early tenure as vice president was marked by a slow start, staff turnover, and limited policy successes, leading some within the White House and Biden’s campaign to view her as a liability. However, her stance on abortion rights and her efforts to engage young voters have since improved her image.
Several influential Democrats, including Rep. Jim Clyburn, Rep. Gregory Meeks, and Summer Lee, have publicly signaled their support for Harris as a potential alternative to Biden. Additionally, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has privately conveyed the same sentiment to lawmakers.
The potential of a Harris candidacy has even sparked concern among Republican donors, who fear she could pose a greater threat to Trump than Biden. Some Wall Street figures also see her as a more viable candidate, citing Biden’s declining poll numbers.
While Harris benefits from the established Biden campaign infrastructure and fundraising network, concerns persist about her ability to secure the necessary funds for a successful presidential run. Her fundraising performance in the 2020 Democratic primary was notably weaker than Biden’s.
Republican attacks on Harris are intensifying as she gains momentum. Conservative pundits are reviving criticisms leveled against her during the 2020 race, focusing on her perceived lack of experience, her perceived far-left leanings, and her perceived weakness as a candidate.
Despite the challenges, Harris possesses certain strengths that could prove beneficial in a presidential campaign. Her prosecutorial background could provide a formidable advantage in debates against Trump. Additionally, she could potentially energize Democratic-leaning groups, including Black voters, young voters, and those disillusioned with Biden’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
However, Harris’s success will ultimately depend on her ability to overcome the challenges she faces. She must secure the support of moderate Democrats and independents, address concerns about her fundraising capabilities, and navigate the intensifying attacks from Republicans.
