Allies of Vice President Kamala Harris are discreetly discussing strategies for her potential presidential candidacy should President Joe Biden choose to step aside, according to sources familiar with the matter. These conversations, held via phone calls and text messages, involve key donors from Harris’ 2020 Democratic primary campaign.
A significant focus of these discussions is the future control of the substantial Biden-Harris campaign funds if Biden exits the race. Biden’s campaign manager, Julie Chavez Rodriguez, has indicated that Harris, as the vice president, would likely have access to the campaign’s resources. As of early summer, the combined funds from Biden’s campaign and joint fundraising committees amounted to $240 million.
Harris’ allies are contemplating organizing meetings with top Democratic donors to prepare for a potential campaign. They highlight her policy priorities, including reproductive rights, engagement with Black and marginalized communities, and her stance on international issues like Ukraine, as key strengths that could enhance a Democratic campaign.
In addition, supporters have been circulating an old campaign video showcasing Harris confronting Trump administration officials during her tenure as a U.S. senator. This video, originally produced by the “People Standing Strong” PAC, emphasizes her tenacity and readiness to challenge former President Donald Trump.
The speculation about Harris’ candidacy follows Biden’s difficult debate performance last Thursday. Concerns about Biden’s capacity to serve a full term have led to increased chatter among party donors and some lawmakers about the need for alternative candidates. Representative Lloyd Doggett of Texas recently became the first Democrat in Congress to publicly suggest that Biden should step down.
While some donors express unease about Harris’ potential nomination, others see her as a viable alternative to Biden, especially given her ability to mobilize campaign funds and her growing favorability in betting markets.
Despite the internal discussions, Biden’s team maintains that the president is committed to his re-election campaign. Harris has publicly defended Biden, reaffirming her loyalty at a recent donor event in San Francisco. Nevertheless, the private deliberations among Harris’ supporters continue to gain momentum as they prepare for any possible changes in the Democratic nomination landscape.
White House spokesperson Andrew Bates has strongly denied reports that Biden is considering withdrawing from the race, labeling such stories as inaccurate.
As the Democratic National Convention approaches, the party may face a complex scenario if Biden opts out. Harris, while currently seen as a strong contender, could still face competition within the party. For now, her supporters are laying the groundwork for what could become a significant shift in the 2024 election dynamics.
