Amid the ongoing repercussions of Joe Biden’s debate performance, many top Democratic circles are already discussing potential running mates for Kamala Harris.
A growing group of leading party officials, operatives, and donors are increasingly certain that Biden’s slow campaign recovery won’t succeed. Several close allies are skeptical about his ability to run for reelection, according to conversations with two dozen Democratic politicians and operatives.
Biden often advises against comparing him to perfection, but rather to the alternative. This is precisely what many Democrats are doing when they consider Harris.
The vice president and her staff have largely ignored the influx of calls and messages, maintaining their support for Biden and emphasizing their commitment to him. However, Harris made some adjustments after last week’s debate, including joining Biden for the Fourth of July picnic and fireworks, an event she had not previously attended.
Despite Harris’ efforts to support Biden, Democratic politics are beginning to revolve around her, as evidenced by former President Donald Trump’s campaign already targeting her. Some officials have urged donors to stop doubting Harris’ ability to win and to support her instead. Plans are also underway to convince Biden to back Harris immediately, release his Democratic delegates, and encourage them to follow his lead. This strategy aims to avoid a contentious fight for the Democratic ticket.
There is hope among top Democrats that an open race for Harris’ running mate would focus on leading Democratic governors. The most discussed candidates include North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, along with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. However, this approach could deny Harris the traditional deference given to presidential nominees in choosing their running mates.
One Democratic senator likened the situation to a football game, where the star quarterback (Biden) is sidelined, and the backup (Harris) is called in. The senator emphasized the importance of confidence in the backup, despite some fans clamoring for unproven alternatives.
Switching to Harris would allow her to take over Biden’s campaign infrastructure and fundraising. Tim Ryan, former Ohio congressman, argued that decisive action is needed to change narratives and avoid playing into stereotypes of Democratic weakness.
Biden campaign spokesman Kevin Munoz dismissed the speculation, reaffirming that Biden is the nominee and Harris the running mate, confident in their victory this November.
While some House Democrats fear losing their seats with Harris at the top of the ticket, others have warmed to the idea, believing she can unite key groups and overcome past skepticism. An anonymously authored document titled “Unburdened by What Has Been: The Case for Kamala” has circulated among Democratic donors, arguing for Harris as the only viable candidate to win.
Rep. Nanette Barragán, chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, noted a shift in conversations recognizing Harris’ value and work. Harris’ credibility on key issues like abortion rights has also been highlighted by leaders like Mini Timmaraju, president of Reproductive Freedom for All.
Harris supporters have been frustrated by discussions of potential Biden replacements not focusing solely on her. Yet, some post-debate polls showing Trump’s lead within the margin of error against Harris have energized her defenders.
As Biden’s public schedule remains sparse, doubts about him grow, bolstering Harris’ position. Harris has long prepared for a potential face-off against Trump, evidenced by her response to his stalking behavior during the 2016 debates. Her sharp defense of Biden post-debate has resonated, with even Biden’s team echoing her remarks.
Harris has maintained focus on Trump, portraying his running mate as an interchangeable supporter of his extreme agenda. Brian Fallon, Harris’ campaign communications director, reaffirmed her pride in running with Biden for another term.
Speculation about Harris’ running mate has centered on Gov. Roy Cooper and Gov. Andy Beshear. Both have strong records and relationships with Harris, positioning them as potential vice-presidential picks.
While neither Cooper’s nor Beshear’s aides commented on the speculation, their experience and popularity make them significant contenders in the evolving Democratic landscape.
