Vice President Kamala Harris has quickly positioned herself as the leading contender for the Democratic presidential nomination following President Joe Biden’s decision to step aside.
At a glance:
- Harris secures backing from major Democratic donors within hours of Biden’s announcement
- ActBlue reports $46.7 million in small-dollar donations on the day of Harris’ campaign launch
- Party leaders and influential figures swiftly endorse Harris’ candidacy
- Harris campaign already vetting potential running mates
In a dramatic shift in the Democratic presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as the party’s likely nominee following President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election. The transition has sparked a surge in fundraising and widespread support from party leaders and donors.
Swift Endorsements and Financial Support
Within hours of Biden’s announcement, Harris secured endorsements from key Democratic figures and major donors. LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, George and Alex Soros, and several Wall Street donors quickly announced their support for Harris. Brad Karp, a prominent Wall Street fundraiser, called Harris “a formidable nominee” who could “help unite our country.”
Fundraising Resurgence
Harris’ campaign launch triggered a significant influx of donations. ActBlue, the leading Democratic online donation processor, reported $46.7 million in small-dollar donations by 9 p.m. Eastern on the day of her announcement – the platform’s biggest day of 2024. This marks a stark contrast to the Biden campaign’s recent fundraising struggles.
Chris Korge, finance chair for the Biden Victory Fund, predicted a “tidal wave of donations,” noting that many donors who had been holding back would now contribute.
Party Unity and Strategic Positioning
Harris has reportedly already begun vetting potential running mates, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. This swift action, coupled with endorsements from party leaders like Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, suggests a coordinated effort to present a united front.
Challenges Ahead
While the initial response to Harris’ candidacy has been overwhelmingly positive within Democratic circles, the campaign faces the challenge of maintaining this momentum. The party must also navigate the transition from Biden’s presidency to Harris’ candidacy while preparing for a potentially contentious general election against former President Donald Trump.
There’s also the big question of whether or not Harris will be installed as the President of the United States before November…if Dr. Jill Biden will allow it.
