In recent weeks, prominent Democrats have been discussing the possibility of Vice President Kamala Harris replacing President Joe Biden atop the Democratic ticket should he step down from his reelection bid. With many reactions ranging from forced enthusiasm to begrudging acceptance, some insiders insist that if a convention contest took place, Harris would win due to her seemingly inevitable nomination.
Rep. Rho Khanna (D-CA) told ABC News on Sunday morning that he believed the vice president would win any vote should Biden step aside, with many delegates supporting her bid for the presidency. Longtime Rep. James Clyburn (D-SC) also expressed his support for a “mini primary” at the Democratic National Convention to ensure Kamala Harris has a strong running mate.
James Carville, the iconic Democratic campaign operative, said on July 3rd that Biden stepping down would require Kamala Harris to lead the ticket, despite him not relishing the idea. Former Democratic National Committee chairman Howard Dean also spoke in favor of Harris becoming the Democratic nominee if Biden were to drop out.
Hollywood and liberal elites have also called for Harris as their preferred candidate. For instance, Rosie O’Donnell endorsed a piece by Ezra Klein arguing that Kamala Harris was more than qualified and prepared to take over for Biden but that she needed the voters to be presented with alternatives before Biden could officially bail from reelection.
Presidential historian Douglas Brinkley joined the chorus as well, calling for Biden to resign on July 11th on CNN and endorse Harris. Bill Maher also stated on July 13th that Kamala Harris would receive Biden’s campaign money and therefore be Democrats’ “Plan B” should he step down from his reelection bid.