Following President Biden’s disastrous debate performance against Trump, Democrats are facing internal chaos over their path forward. The New York Times reports that Biden’s campaign is testing Vice President Kamala Harris in a head-to-head poll against Trump. This marks the first time since the debate that Biden’s aides are evaluating Harris’s viability as a top candidate.
Harris, who struggled in her 2020 presidential bid, is being reconsidered as some Democrats feel she could be a more dynamic spokesperson for the party. “Given Biden’s recent showings, even a rutabaga would be a more energetic communicator,” quipped a senior Democratic adviser.
The Biden campaign’s internal survey indicates a serious debate within the party about whether Biden should step aside for Harris. “This isn’t just about one bad debate,” said another insider. “It’s about a series of events that have made people question Biden’s electability.”
Adding to the confusion, a memo from the Biden campaign contradicted their decision to poll-test Harris, claiming that hypothetical polling of alternative nominees is unreliable. “The memo seemed to downplay the very concerns the poll is trying to address,” said a campaign staffer. “It’s sending mixed signals to everyone involved.”
Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is reportedly pressuring Biden to reconsider his re-election campaign. Pelosi is engaging with various House Democrats to gauge support and express her worries about Biden’s chances against Trump. She is pushing for a broader discussion within the party to ensure the best possible candidate is chosen for the upcoming election.
The Democrats’ struggle is compounded by the fact that the GOP is set to officially nominate Trump, showcasing a stark contrast in party unity. “We’re seeing the Republicans come together, while we’re still figuring out who our leader should be,” said a prominent Democratic donor.
As the Democratic Party faces this internal strife, the implications for the 2024 election are becoming increasingly significant. The coming weeks will be critical as the party navigates these challenges and decides on its path forward.
