Rising support for VP Harris as Biden pressured to withdraw from race

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
20 Jul 2024 22:55

Harris is expected to present a more active challenge against the official Republican nominee Donald Trump.

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La vicepresidenta Kamala Harris habla en un evento de campaña en Greensboro, Carolina del Norte, el jueves 11 de julio de 2024. (AP Foto/Chuck Burton)

According to CNN, citing sources, an increasing number of US Democrats are voicing their support for Vice President Kamala Harris' nomination as president on the Democratic ticket.

Many Democrats agree on the need to replace Joe Biden in the presidential race; however, they are reportedly not rushing to any conclusions. Even those with serious concerns about Biden's candidacy have ceased openly opposing him, according to CNN.

Harris is expected to present a more active challenge against the official Republican nominee Donald Trump, as per reports.

"I do believe it has to be the vice president. She's campaigning vigorously under the mantle and she's the natural successor," a Democrat told CNN.

According to ABC News, Biden feels personally hurt and betrayed by the growing number of Democrats, including close friends and allies, who are turning away from him.

On Friday, CNN reported that some White House officials and members of Joe Biden's camp were privately suggesting that the 81-year-old should withdraw from the race.

NBC also reported that Biden's family members are discussing an exit plan amid increasing pressure for him to step aside.

Biden's poor performance in the first campaign debate against his Republican rival in June intensified concerns about his cognitive abilities, prompting many Democratic politicians and donors to urge his resignation.

The Democratic Party could potentially replace Biden at its convention in August. Despite this, Biden has stated that he intends to continue his campaign.

Trump rallies after assassination attempt

Meanwhile, Donald Trump is gearing up for his first campaign rally today since surviving the assassination attempt, marking a stark contrast to President Joe Biden who remains isolated at home with COVID-19.

Trump, buoyed by recent favorable developments including court rulings and his ability to use the assassination attempt to energize his base, is expected to draw large crowds to his Michigan rally.

Supporters, including those who have already begun lining up outside the Van Andel Arena, view Trump's return as a testament to his resilience.

Trump himself has framed the event as a powerful comeback, stating, "I had God on my side," and portraying his survival as a sign of his strengthened position.