As the 2024 Democratic National Convention approaches, a critical question has been lingering for many people (well at least the Black folk that I’ve spoken to): If President Joe Biden is not the nominee, should Vice President Kamala Harris step into the role?
For Democrats unsettled by Biden’s debate performance and contemplating alternatives, the answer should be an unequivocal yes. Overlooking Harris would be a grave mistake, both in terms of recognizing her qualifications and ensuring political success for the Democratic ticket.
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Harris has been a pivotal force in advancing the Biden administration’s economic and national security agenda. Her work on supporting historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), maternal health, and addressing health disparities has had a tangible impact on American lives. She has demonstrated her ability to tackle significant societal challenges and has effectively articulated the administration’s positions.
African Americans, who make up about 14% of the American population, made up nearly 20% of Biden voters in 2020, according to the Pew Research Center. In an election anticipated to be closely contested, alienating this crucial demographic by bypassing Harris would be both disrespectful and politically disastrous. Denying the nomination to the first Black vice president, poised to step into Biden’s role if necessary, would create significant discontent within the Black community, potentially fracturing the voter coalition needed to defeat Trump.
Elevating Harris to the top of the ticket would signify a remarkable turnaround for a leader initially viewed as a political liability by some in the Biden administration. Harris has shown resilience and growth in her role. Her tenure as vice president has been marked by early stumbles, high-profile interview slip-ups, pandering to Black voters (Did you watch the BET Awards?) low approval ratings, and staff turnover. These challenges have led to perceptions of ineffectiveness and absence.
Critics often overlook her accomplishments and the unique challenges she faces as the first woman and the first Black and South Asian vice president. Her background as a top prosecutor and her roles as attorney general and senator for California add to her qualifications and readiness to lead.
Historically, Black voters have played a pivotal role in Democratic victories, and Harris’s nomination could energize this vital constituency. Her commitment to addressing issues affecting the Black community, such as criminal justice reform economic inequality, and healthcare disparities, reiterates her dedication to advancing policies that matter to a broad spectrum of voters.
While skepticism about Harris’s electability persists, much of this doubt is rooted in systemic biases and the higher standards often applied to women and minority candidates. The narrative that Harris is unable to win against Trump underestimates her political acumen and the potential to galvanize a diverse and dynamic voter base.
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