Kamala Harris has made history as the first Indian-American and the first female Vice President of the United States. Now, speculation arises about her potential bid for the ultimate position: the American Presidency. The White House has declared Harris as “the future of the Democratic Party.”
Polling and Public Opinion
A recent CNN poll shows Harris and former President Donald Trump nearly tied, with 47% of registered voters supporting Trump and 45% backing Harris. This close margin highlights Harris’s significant standing among voters.
Biden’s Endorsement
At the NAACP’s annual convention, President Joe Biden hinted at Harris’s potential to become president. Amid calls for Biden to drop out of the race, he praised Harris, stating, “She’s not only a great vice president, she could be president of the United States.” Despite these remarks, Biden gave no indication of stepping aside, emphasizing his plans for a second term, including signing voting-rights legislation.
Harris’s Position
If Biden were to step aside, Harris would be the most obvious choice for the Democratic presidential nomination. However, she faces criticism for her perceived inability to carve out her role within the Biden administration and struggles with low approval ratings. Nevertheless, she remains best-positioned to replace Biden should he decide to resign.
Biden’s Critique of Trump
In his address, Biden repeatedly criticized Donald Trump, referencing the former president’s controversial actions and statements. Biden condemned Trump’s presidency as detrimental to black Americans and criticized his response to the 2020 riots following George Floyd’s murder. He also mocked Trump’s focus on “black jobs” and accused him of dishonesty about their respective records on black unemployment.
Biden highlighted Trump’s role in spreading the birther conspiracy about Barack Obama, questioning his birthplace and citizenship. Biden warned that Republicans would “undo everything the NAACP stands for.”
Kamala Harris’s Background
Harris, the daughter of Tamil Nadu-born Shyamala Gopalan, who moved to the US in 1958 and became a biologist, brings a unique perspective to her role. Harris has expressed her readiness to debate JD Vance, Trump’s running mate, in the upcoming vice-presidential debate.
Kamala Harris’s potential candidacy for the presidency underscores the evolving dynamics within the Democratic Party. While facing criticism and challenges, her historic role as Vice President and Biden’s endorsement position her as a significant figure in American politics. As the 2024 elections approach, Harris’s future in the political arena remains a subject of keen interest and speculation.
(With inputs from agencies)
