Amidst President Biden's re-election campaign, a growing number of Democrats are expressing comfort with the prospect of Vice President Kamala Harris assuming the presidency should Biden be unable to complete his duties. This has sparked debate about the motives behind Biden's re-election bid and its potential long-term consequences.
A recent Suffolk University/USA Today poll revealed that 86% of Democratic Biden voters are comfortable with Harris potentially stepping into the role of president if Biden is re-elected but cannot fulfill his term. This possibility, considered realistic by political insiders, could significantly impact the American political landscape.
Former Hawaii Rep. Tulsi Gabbard suggests a strategic motive behind Biden's re-election, alleging a plan to install Harris as president after Biden's potential resignation or departure. This, she argues, would give Harris an incumbency advantage in the 2028 election. Gabbard, however, expresses serious concerns about Harris' qualifications and warns of potential dangers should she become president.
Democratic pollster Doug Schoen also voices reservations about Harris' readiness to lead, citing her low approval ratings. He emphasizes the disparity between Democrats' apparent satisfaction with Harris as a potential successor and the broader electorate's skepticism.
Civil rights attorney and Fox News contributor Leo Terrell shares these concerns, suggesting that the Democrats are presenting Biden and Harris as a package deal in the 2024 election. He criticizes the focus on identity politics over competence and questions Harris' qualifications.
While Harris is Biden's confirmed running mate for 2024, her overall approval rating remains low according to a Monmouth University poll. Marc Lotter, former special assistant to President Trump, notes that voters typically focus on the presidential candidate and sees Harris' low approval as a potential liability for the Democratic ticket.
However, some believe that Democratic voters are genuinely supporting Biden and not solely focused on Harris' potential succession. Hank Sheinkopf, a former Democratic consultant, suggests the primary focus is on Biden's re-election, with Harris' capabilities as a potential successor being a secondary concern.
Democratic strategist Leslie Marshall dismisses the notion of a calculated plan to install Harris as president, attributing the focus on Biden to his long political career and position as the top candidate. She acknowledges the historical significance of a potential female president, particularly a woman of color.
Republican strategist Corinne Clark expresses skepticism about both Biden and Harris' chances in 2024. She interprets the polling data not as enthusiasm for Harris but as a reflection of voter dissatisfaction with Biden.
Despite strong support among Democrats, Harris' overall approval ratings remain low, raising questions about her potential as a future president.
