2024 Democratic Hopefuls: Kamala Harris vs. Ghost of Elections Past?

2024 Democratic Hopefuls: Kamala Harris vs. Ghost of Elections Past?

4 minute read
Published: 7/23/2024

President Joe Biden shocked the political world by bowing out of the 2024 race and endorsing Kamala Harris, who now counts Hillary Clinton, Gavin Newsom, and a small army of Democratic governors among her supporters.

In a political plot twist that makes House of Cards look like child's play, President Biden has decided to let someone else steer the ship. With Biden's unexpected exit, Vice President Kamala Harris has launched her campaign, quickly stockpiling the endorsements of a who's who in the Democratic Party, including Hillary Clinton, Gavin Newsom, and just about every Democratic governor not currently embroiled in controversy. The Democratic National Convention in Chicago is gearing up to be more exciting than the latest Marvel movie, with Harris leading the charge and rival potentials still lurking in the wings.

Kamala Harris faces little immediate competition within the Democratic Party, having secured endorsements from a broad swath of its political heavyweights. Among these supporters are California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. With a backing lineup resembling a political Avengers team, Harris's runway to the nomination appears unusually smooth.

Even more notable is the high-profile endorsement from former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton. The Clintons, who have been central figures in Democratic politics for decades, offer significant weight to Harris's campaign. Whether their support will translate to votes, however, remains to be seen as the primary season kicks into gear. Of course, with the Clintons' track record, we can expect plenty of fireworks and perhaps a plot twist or two.

Other prominent Democrats playing sidekicks to Harris's campaign include Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, outgoing North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. Their endorsements create an almost comically lopsided playing field where Harris stands practically unopposed within the establishment.

Still, the endorsements raise questions about the dynamics within the party. Their swift backing of Harris signals a desire for unity rather than another bruising primary battle that could weaken the eventual nominee. After a turbulent decade of elections—where the only thing predictable was unpredictability—the Democratic Party seems eager to consolidate its base.

While Harris garners praise and endorsements, other names are being floated around as potential candidates. Governors like Gavin Newsom of California, Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Wes Moore of Maryland, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, and JB Pritzker of Illinois are mentioned as possible replacements for Biden. Interestingly, these individuals have thrown their support behind Harris, at least for now. It seems they might be saying, 'Look, it’s her turn!'

The Democratic National Convention in August promises to be a spectacle worthy of any political drama aficionados' time. The delegates can technically vote for any candidate, irrespective of primary results, though they are typically pledged according to state party decisions. While this might sound like an episode of Survivor: Politics Edition, the real-world stakes are considerably higher, even if the plot twists are just as entertaining.

One notable absence from the endorsement parade is Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia. Having decided against running for president himself, Manchin has yet to endorse any candidate. Whether this opens the door for a last-minute dark horse candidate is anyone's guess, but for the moment, he remains a wildcard in a fairly scripted show.

As the Democrats march towards the convention, the unity around Harris's candidacy could face tests from grassroots and activist segments of the party eager to see a more progressive or different direction. However, for the time being, Harris benefits from what can be described as a coronation rather than a nomination process.

It’s also worth noting that Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign will highlight the Biden administration’s policies and record. With President Joe Biden passing the baton, Harris will face the challenge of promoting the administration’s achievements. No pressure, right?

As this political season unfolds, American voters can look forward to the usual debates, campaign rallies, and obligatory baby-kissing. But with Harris at the forefront of the Democratic push, this election cycle is shaping up to have its fair share of spectacle, drama, and perhaps a few unexpected twists. Meanwhile, for the rest of us, it might be a good time to stock up on popcorn.