After ‘wobbly’ show in US presidential debate, Democrats wonder, ‘If not Joe Biden, then who?’: 5 possible candidates
NEW DELHI: The fallout from President Joe Biden’s faltering performance at the first 2024 US presidential debate has sent shockwaves through the Democratic party. Biden, the 81-year-old incumbent, struggled to stem a barrage of attacks and false claims from his Republican rival Donald Trump, leaving his allies scrambling to contain the damage.
The debate, which took place far earlier in the campaign than any modern presidential debate, was seen as a critical test for Biden to quell concerns about his age and fitness for office. Instead, a hoarse-sounding Biden stumbled over his words at times, especially in the early stages, leading one anonymous Biden donor to call his performance “disqualifying”.Panicked Democrats exchanged messages wondering whether Biden would consider stepping down, though White House officials said he was simply suffering from a cold.
The rough debate performance has prompted some to call for Biden to stand down, sparking discussions within the Democratic party about who could take his place.According to a report by Forbes, several prominent figures are being considered as likely candidates:
Vice President Kamala Harris: As the current Vice President, Harris is a natural choice. She has significant experience in the Senate and has been a visible member of the Biden administration. However, her own presidential campaign in 2020 struggled to gain traction, raising questions about her viability as the top candidate.
Transportation secretary Pete Buttigieg: Buttigieg, a former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, has maintained a high profile since his own 2020 presidential bid. His articulate communication style and experience as a cabinet member make him a strong contender.
California governor Gavin Newsom: Newsom has been a vocal and high-profile governor, particularly noted for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in California. His progressive policies and strong state leadership position him as a potential candidate should Biden withdraw.
Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer: Whitmer has gained national attention for her leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic and her strong stance on various social issues. Her popularity in a key swing state adds to her potential candidacy.
Senator Elizabeth Warren: Warren, known for her progressive stance on economic issues and her strong advocacy for consumer protection, remains a popular figure within the Democratic Party. Her extensive policy knowledge and previous campaign experience make her a viable option.
The debate over Biden’s potential withdrawal and the emergence of these candidates highlight the dynamic and uncertain nature of the upcoming election.
Democratic strategist James Carville commented, “The party needs to be prepared for all scenarios. We have a strong bench, and it’s crucial to ensure we have the best candidate to continue our agenda.”As the situation develops, the Democratic party will be closely monitoring Biden’s performance and public sentiment. The potential candidates are positioning themselves for what could become a significant shift in the race for the White House.