President Joe Biden recently acknowledged that his subpar performance in a TV debate against former President Donald Trump was due to his extensive international travel schedule. Speaking at a fundraiser in Virginia, Biden apologized to donors, attributing his poor showing to fatigue from traveling across numerous time zones.
The possibility of Vice President Kamala Harris replacing Biden if he decides to withdraw from the presidential race is gaining traction. According to Reuters, seven senior officials from the Biden campaign, the White House, and the Democratic National Committee have indicated that Harris is the top candidate. If nominated, she would inherit Biden's campaign funds and network, providing her with a substantial advantage.
Despite some influential Democrats proposing alternatives like California Governor Gavin Newsom and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, sources suggest that bypassing Harris is unlikely. Harris' aides have also dismissed any notion of her replacing Biden, stating that she expects to serve a second term alongside him.
Former Obama administration minister Julián Castro has also voiced his opinion that Biden should retire, suggesting that another Democrat, particularly Harris, would have a better chance of defeating Trump. Castro's comments echo sentiments from other Democrats who are concerned about Biden's age and performance.
Adding to the growing concerns, Democratic congressman Jared Golden has predicted that Trump will win the upcoming election. In an editorial, Golden stated that he has foreseen this outcome for months and criticized the current campaign strategy focused on fearmongering.
Former President Barack Obama has also expressed concerns about Biden's re-election prospects. After Biden's disappointing debate performance, Obama reportedly offered his support but has been warning Biden about the challenges ahead.
Amidst these developments, reports indicate that at least 25 Democratic lawmakers are prepared to ask Biden to step down if he continues to appear unsteady. The focus is now on Biden's upcoming interview with ABC to assess his ability to handle rapid-fire questions and maintain his campaign momentum.
- President Joe Biden's international travel schedule included stops in France, Italy, and Los Angeles, which he cited as contributing factors to his fatigue during the debate.
- Vice President Kamala Harris, at 59 years old, is seen as a strong candidate who could effectively utilize the resources and infrastructure of the Biden campaign if she were to run for president.
- Despite suggestions of other potential candidates like Gavin Newsom and Gretchen Whitmer, the consensus among senior Democrats is that Harris remains the most viable option.
- Former Obama administration minister Julián Castro has been a vocal critic of Biden's age and memory, advocating for a change in the Democratic ticket to improve the party's chances against Trump.
- Democratic congressman Jared Golden's prediction of a Trump victory highlights the internal divisions and concerns within the party regarding the current campaign strategy.
- Former President Barack Obama's involvement underscores the high stakes of the upcoming election and the need for a robust strategy to counter Trump's campaign.
