
Joe vs. The Unknown
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Potential Scenarios for Democratic Nominee if Biden Steps Aside
If Joe Biden steps aside, there are two potential scenarios for the Democratic nominee. First, Biden could endorse Kamala Harris, his vice president, who would likely become the presumptive nominee supported by Biden's delegates. Alternatively, if Biden allows the process to play out, multiple Democrats would run for president, leading to a brokered convention where delegates vote and superdelegates come in on the second ballot. Ultimately, the nominee may be decided through multiple rounds of voting until a majority is reached. Additionally, if Biden's health or circumstances prevent him from continuing, the DNC may need to navigate legal and logistical challenges, such as the virtual roll call to officially nominate Biden before the August deadline to be on state ballots. There is also a precedent for the DNC to convene and select a new nominee in such situations.