Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race is still unlikely, but speculation about his replacement is rampant. Here are some potential candidates:
Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris, the current US Vice President, is a top contender. Serving as Vice President since January 2021, Harris has a notable history as the first Black person and woman to be California’s attorney general, the first US senator of South Asian descent, and now the first woman and Black vice president. Her prosecutorial background highlights her tough stance, which could be beneficial in a campaign focused on crime and immigration. However, her low approval ratings and criticism from some progressive Democrats over her strict policies may be obstacles.
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Gavin Newsom
Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, is another prominent name. The 56-year-old Democrat, former mayor of San Francisco, and leader of the nation’s most populous state, has maintained strong support for Biden. Despite this, Newsom’s own presidential ambitions are evident through his international travels, ads promoting his record, and investments in a political action committee. This has led to speculation about a possible 2024 run.
Gretchen Whitmer
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, aged 52, is also a potential candidate. Representing a state with a strong working-class population and significant Black and Arab-American communities, Whitmer has been a vocal critic of Trump and a target of a far-right militia’s kidnapping plot. Michigan’s status as a crucial battleground state adds weight to her candidacy. Despite speculation, Whitmer has expressed her full support for Biden.
Josh Shapiro
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, 51, leads the significant swing state. Elected in 2022 with a decisive victory, Shapiro has a background as the state’s attorney general, where he took strong actions against Catholic priests involved in sexual abuse and prosecuted Purdue Pharma. His effective speechmaking and centrist stance make him a notable contender for national office.
Other Candidates
Other potential candidates include Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, though their chances seem limited. Additionally, Senator Amy Klobuchar and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, both of whom ran against Biden in the 2020 primaries, have been mentioned as possibilities.
