WASHINGTON: US Vice President Kamala Harris intensified efforts on Monday to lock in Democratic support and secure the party’s nomination to face Donald Trump in the November election after President Joe Biden’s sensational exit.
With Biden’s endorsement in hand, the 59-year-old Harris has swiftly garnered support from a wave of Democrats as she gears up to kick off her campaign with an event at the White House.
Despite Biden’s backing, Harris faces the task of rallying remaining key supporters to clinch the nomination, a process that could be finalized as early as August 1. Some within the party are advocating for transparency through an open primary.
As America’s first female, Black, and South Asian vice president, Harris holds a unique opportunity to unify the party following Biden’s unprecedented decision to step aside, citing concerns over his age and debate performance against Trump.
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Reports indicate Harris spent over 10 hours on Sunday contacting more than 100 party leaders, members of Congress, governors, and other influential figures to express gratitude for Biden’s endorsement and affirm her determination to earn the nomination independently.
“Each of those calls underscored the Vice President’s commitment to this process and her deep appreciation for President Biden’s support,” a source familiar with Harris’s outreach efforts told AFP.
Harris notably spoke with former President Barack Obama, among others, who had refrained from endorsing her until Sunday.
The Democratic Party has pledged a methodical approach to replace Biden, ensuring a “transparent and orderly process” amid the unexpected vacancy. Independent Senator Joe Manchin, a potential rival, ruled out registering as a Democrat and challenging Harris’s bid.
Highlighting the swift momentum behind Harris’s campaign, her team reported a remarkable $49.6 million in grassroots donations within 24 hours of Biden’s endorsement.
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Biden’s exit has also reshaped Trump’s reelection strategy, shifting focus from attacking Biden’s age to confronting Harris, a former prosecutor, and the first woman on the presidential ticket.
Trump responded to Biden’s withdrawal with a barrage of social media posts, characterizing Harris as a “threat to democracy” and mocking Biden’s age.
While Harris faces significant challenges ahead, including improving her approval ratings and solidifying her policy platform, her swift ascension reflects a newfound energy within the Democratic Party.
Speculation is rife that a vote to formally nominate Harris could take place as early as August 1, weeks ahead of the scheduled convention. Calls for a contested convention have been minimal, with influential figures like California Governor Gavin Newsom and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear publicly endorsing Harris.
Democratic lawmakers and party stalwarts, including a substantial portion of US senators and former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, have rallied behind Harris. However, some prominent figures, including Obama and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, initially withheld their endorsements.
Biden described his presidency as the “greatest honor” of his life and pledged his full support to Harris.
