Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race remains unlikely, but speculation is rife about potential replacements on the Democratic ticket. Here’s a look at some of the names being circulated:
Kamala Harris
As the sitting Vice President, Kamala Harris is a prominent contender. Since Biden’s inauguration in January 2021, Harris has been a heartbeat away from the presidency. The 59-year-old, who has broken multiple barriers as the first Black, South Asian, and female Vice President, has a formidable resume, including serving as California’s Attorney General and as a US Senator. Known for her tough stance as a prosecutor, Harris could leverage this in a campaign focusing on crime and immigration. However, her low approval ratings and criticism from progressive Democrats for her stringent punishments of minor offenders might complicate her candidacy.
Gavin Newsom
California Governor Gavin Newsom is another name frequently mentioned. Despite no rule mandating that the Vice President should automatically replace a presidential candidate, Newsom’s leadership of the most populous US state and his staunch support for abortion access position him as a viable option. Newsom has publicly supported Biden and dismissed replacement talks as “unhelpful to our democracy.” Nonetheless, his increased international travel, extensive advertising, and substantial investments in a political action committee hint at his presidential ambitions, possibly even for 2024 instead of 2028.
Gretchen Whitmer
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is also a potential candidate. The 52-year-old governor leads a state with a significant working-class population and major Black and Arab-American communities, key voter groups Biden has struggled to win over. Whitmer gained national attention as a target of a kidnapping plot by a far-right militia group. Michigan’s status as a crucial battleground state bolsters the argument for her candidacy. Despite this, Whitmer has expressed unwavering support for Biden, declaring her 100 percent commitment to his re-election campaign.
Josh Shapiro
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is another notable mention. Leading the largest swing state in the upcoming election, the 51-year-old Shapiro, elected as governor in November 2022, has a strong political background, including serving as the state’s attorney general. Known for prosecuting Catholic priests for child abuse and Purdue Pharma for its role in the opioid crisis, Shapiro’s effective speechmaking and centrist stance could make him a strong national candidate.
Other Potential Candidates
Other names being circulated include Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, though their chances currently seem limited. Additionally, Senator Amy Klobuchar and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, both of whom ran against Biden in the 2020 primaries, are also being mentioned.
