Biden is Out! Is Harris A Shoo-in for the Nomination?

In related news, the results of a recent Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll indicate a significant shift among Democratic voters. Conducted from July 5-9, the poll reveals that a substantial majority—70%—of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents would be “satisfied” if President Joe Biden decided not to run for re-election and Vice President Kamala Harris stepped in as the 2024 Democratic presidential candidate, according to Fox News.

The poll’s findings exhibit a notable level of support for VP Harris among potential Democratic voters. When asked an open-ended question regarding their preferred nominee if President Biden bowed out, 29% of respondents named Harris as their top choice. This places her well ahead of other potential contenders.

California Governor Gavin Newsom garnered 7% of the vote, emerging as the second most favored candidate among the respondents. Meanwhile, 4% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents expressed a preference for former First Lady Michelle Obama as a potential replacement for Biden.

Trailing slightly behind were Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, each receiving 3% of the vote. Despite these figures, it is worth noting that a significant portion of the Democratic base remains undecided, with half of the respondents not specifying an alternative candidate to Biden.

These poll results underline a potential paradigm shift within the Democratic Party, showcasing Harris as a compelling option for many should Biden choose not to seek a second term. They also highlight a landscape ripe with possibilities, where multiple figures within the party hold varying degrees of support among the electorate.