Biden's Fate: Potential Scenarios for Replacing the Democratic Nominee

President Biden's performance at the CNN Presidential Debate has raised concerns within the Democratic Party, prompting speculation about the possibility of replacing him as the nominee. This article explores the various scenarios under which such an extraordinary move could occur.

President Biden's performance at the CNN Presidential Debate has left the Democratic Party pondering the unthinkable: replacing their presidential nominee. While Biden currently holds the overwhelming majority of pledged delegates, Democratic National Committee (DNC) rules give delegates the authority to vote their conscience, raising the possibility of a mass defection.

As the presumptive Democratic nominee, Biden is expected to receive the support of his pledged delegates during the party's roll call vote, which is scheduled to take place virtually on August 7. However, the rules do not legally bind delegates to vote for a specific candidate, making a mass defection theoretically possible.

Biden's Fate: Potential Scenarios for Replacing the Democratic Nominee

If Biden steps aside before the roll call vote, his delegates will no longer be pledged to him, opening the door for any eligible candidate to emerge. An endorsement from Biden would be crucial, with Vice President Harris being the logical contender.

Replacing a nominee after the roll call vote would be a political disaster. DNC rules grant the committee broad authority to fill a vacancy in the event of death, resignation, or "disability." The scope of "disability" could be subject to intense debate.

Biden's Fate: Potential Scenarios for Replacing the Democratic Nominee

In such an event, DNC Chair Jaime Harrison would consult with Democratic leaders and present a recommendation to the committee, which would make the final decision. Again, Harris would be the most likely contender, given her position within the Biden administration.

If Biden steps aside, dies, or has a 'disability' after ballots are printed, the DNC would face the challenge of informing voters that they are voting for Biden, but the committee has chosen a different nominee. The confusion this could cause among voters would create significant challenges for the party in the general election.

Biden's Fate: Potential Scenarios for Replacing the Democratic Nominee

The unprecedented nature of such a move would almost certainly lead to litigation at the U.S. Supreme Court. Despite the challenges, the Democratic Party is facing the possibility of replacing Biden as their nominee, a move that would fundamentally alter the course of the 2024 presidential election.