Biden Out, Harris In, GOP Still Thinks They'll Win
Jul 22, 2024
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Benjamin Wallace-Wells from The New Yorker discusses Biden's exit, Harris as successor, and Democratic motivations. Topics include challenges for Harris, Trump's threat to democracy, and Harris' response to 'Border Czar' criticism.
Democrats shifted strategy by nominating Harris, indicating a new direction.
Biden's decline and fundraising dynamics led to Harris's nomination amidst internal party struggles.
Deep dives
Political Strategy Shift in Democratic Party
The Democrats made a significant strategy shift by nominating Kamala Harris as the standard bearer, showcasing a new direction. This move raised questions about their stance on democracy, given that Harris wasn't chosen by voters in the nominating process. Contrasting the Democrats' approach, the Republicans held a primary with ballots, voters' choice, and financial investments, making Harris' nomination a point of contention.
Challenges and Justifications for Political Decisions
The decision-making process within the Democratic Party to replace Joe Biden with Kamala Harris showcased internal struggles and strategic evaluations. Biden's decline in support, coupled with a broad spectrum of calls for change within the party, highlighted the factors influencing the transition. A crucial aspect was the shift in fundraising dynamics, with Harris receiving significant financial backing following her nomination.
Support and Criticism within Democratic Circles
Despite dissenting opinions and reservations within the Democratic Party, certain factions, including AOC and Bernie Sanders, continued to support Joe Biden. However, the broader party sentiment and key figures like Nancy Pelosi led to an overwhelming push for Biden to step back. The transition to Harris faced complexities, influenced by internal dynamics and potential altercations.
Election Speculation and Policy Deficit
Looking ahead, Kamala Harris's candidacy raises questions about the Democrats' future strategies and policy orientation. The focus on immigration as a critical issue highlights the need for coherent policy positions. Harris's challenge lies in crafting a compelling narrative that addresses past criticisms of the administration and presents a forward-looking agenda. The implications of the Biden-Harris ticket on key battleground states and the party's overall path forward remain subjects of electoral speculation.
After party leaders, donors, and voters made clear that they didn't want Joe Biden running, this past weekend, the President bowed out. Vice President Kamala Harris is there to take the mantle. Benjamin Wallace-Wells, staff writer for The New Yorker, joins us to talk about the factors that contributed to Biden's decision, the opportunities for Harris to make inroads, and if other Democratic politicians really wanted the job. Plus, how Harris can credibly answer the charge that she's a failed "Border Czar." And does Harris' path to the nomination undercut the charge that Trump is the one who is a threat to democracy?
