While the process for selecting a new nominee if President Joe Biden steps aside remains unclear, 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. Internal polls showing Harris boosting Democratic enthusiasm and aiding down-ballot races are circulating, fueling the idea of her quickly assembling a campaign and actively challenging Donald Trump.
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.
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.
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 mobilization 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.
