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As the TV debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump was about to begin, rumors began to circulate among Democrats about the possibility of replacing Biden as their presidential candidate. With the Democratic convention in Chicago just two months away, some believed that if Biden were unable to regain his footing, he could be replaced. However, according to The Hill, any attempt to replace Biden would require his consent.
If Biden were to step aside, his vice president Kamala Harris would likely become the next candidate for president. But there are concerns that Trump may use a vote for Harris as an excuse to attack her as being too progressive and continue his attacks on Democrats.
Despite this, some Democrats believe that if they truly believe Trump poses a threat to American democracy, then both Biden and Harris should consider stepping aside. Potential emergency replacements include Gretchen Whitmer, the governor of Michigan, and Josh Shapiro, the governor of Pennsylvania. Whitmer is well-liked nationally and could help boost support in swing states where Biden is currently trailing.
Another potential candidate for vice president is Roy Cooper, the outgoing governor of North Carolina. However, there are concerns that nominating Whitmer could alienate African-American voters. Despite this, a Whitmer/Shapiro ticket may fare better than a Biden/Harris ticket in the upcoming election.
Ultimately, it will be up to American voters to decide who will be their next president following the Democratic convention in Chicago. While Biden is expected to emerge as the Democratic candidate following the convention, his campaign will focus on Trump rather than a vote of confidence in himself. There is still a chance for a different outcome where a candidate like Whitmer could win over undecided voters and those who do not support either Biden or Trump in an election where a few thousand votes could make a difference.
