As President Joe Biden grapples with increasing scrutiny following a challenging debate performance against former President Donald Trump, the Democratic Party faces a pivotal decision: how to best position itself for the 2024 election. A clear plan forward remains a subject of intense discussion among party leaders and supporters.
Top Democrats have rallied to defend Biden, emphasizing his achievements over the past three and a half years rather than his performance in a single debate. “Listen, if they weren’t engaged in a little bit of hand-wringing, they wouldn’t be Democrats,” said Senator Raphael Warnock, highlighting the party’s tendency for self-criticism.
However, the debate has undeniably intensified internal discussions about the party’s strategy; Biden stepping down could trigger a chaotic process to select a new candidate. This includes potential scenarios where Biden releases his delegates, leading to a competitive contest among Democratic heavyweights. Despite this, Biden’s close allies, including Vice President Kamala Harris and California Governor Gavin Newsom, have publicly reinforced their support.
A bold path for the administration remains in that Biden could opt to not run for re-election, instead facilitating a historic transition of power to Vice President Harris. Such a move would not only honor the constitutional line of succession but also mark a significant milestone in American political history. The peaceful transfer of power, reminiscent of George Washington’s precedent, could serve as a powerful statement about the resilience of American democracy .
Despite the compelling nature of this plan, it carries significant risks. The process of selecting a new nominee could be fraught with challenges, especially if Biden steps down post-convention. The Democratic National Committee (DNC) would then need to swiftly convene and navigate a potentially contentious selection process among its 435 members.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Biden. His choice will significantly shape the Democratic Party’s trajectory and its ability to mount a robust challenge against Trump in the upcoming election.
