Why Kamala Harris Would Be Biden’s Likeliest Replacement

Vice President Kamala Harris is under a fresh spotlight as Democrats buzz about who should replace President Biden were he to drop his re-election bid. 

So far, Biden has shown no interest in exiting the race following a halting debate performance that raised questions about his age and abilities. But while some Democrats ponder a variety of governors or lawmakers who could step in as nominee, the likeliest alternative to the current ticket remains one led by Harris. 

While that path carries risk because Harris’s poll numbers are roughly as lackluster as Biden’s, she is popular enough among Democrats—particularly among women and Black voters—that casting her aside could cause resentment and division within the party. 

“This lady is ready to be president. She really earned her stripes,” said Keith Williams, chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus. “I would be angry if you try to leapfrog over a vice president.”