Clyburn Stands by Biden, but Backs Harris as Potential Replacement

Amid growing speculation about President Biden's future, South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn has expressed support for Vice President Kamala Harris as a potential replacement at the top of the Democratic ticket. Clyburn, a prominent figure in Democratic politics, has previously been a vocal advocate for Biden, but his latest comments indicate a shift in the party's perspective.

South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn, a close ally of President Biden, has expressed support for Vice President Kamala Harris as a potential replacement at the top of the Democratic ticket should Biden withdraw from the race.

Clyburn Stands by Biden, but Backs Harris as Potential Replacement

Clyburn's comments come amid growing speculation about Biden's status as party leader, with some Democrats openly questioning whether he should seek a second term in light of his age and recent public stumbles.

In an interview with MSNBC, Clyburn reiterated his support for Biden but acknowledged that Harris would be a capable alternative.

Clyburn Stands by Biden, but Backs Harris as Potential Replacement

"If Joe Biden did not run, would I support Kamala Harris? Yes, I would," Clyburn said. "I think she'd be a good president."

Clyburn's comments add to the growing chorus of voices within the Democratic Party who believe Harris should be considered as a potential presidential candidate.

Clyburn Stands by Biden, but Backs Harris as Potential Replacement

California Democratic delegate Areva Martin recently told show host Stephen A. Smith that passing over Harris would be a mistake.

"If you pick a White man over Kamala Harris, Black women, I can tell you this, we are going to walk away," Martin said. "We are going to blow the party up."

Martin's comments underscore the importance of diversity and representation in the Democratic Party, particularly among Black women who have been a key constituency for the party in recent elections.

A new national poll from CNN suggests that Harris performs slightly better than Biden in a matchup with Trump, the presumptive GOP nominee. The poll was conducted entirely after Biden's widely criticized performance during last Thursday's face-to-face showdown with Trump.

The Biden campaign has not responded to requests for comment on Clyburn's and Harris's potential candidacy.

Clyburn's comments reflect the growing division within the Democratic Party over Biden's future. While some Democrats believe he should remain the party's standard-bearer, others are advocating for a change in leadership.

A survey released Tuesday by CNN suggests that three-quarters of voters say the Democratic Party would have a better chance of keeping the White House with someone else other than Biden at the top of the ticket.

The survey's findings indicate that many Democrats are losing confidence in Biden's ability to lead the party to victory in 2024.

Despite the challenges, Biden has maintained his commitment to seeking a second term. In a recent interview with ABC News, Biden said he "has no regrets" about running for president again.

"I'm going to do everything I can to make sure that we win," Biden said. "And I think we'll win."

However, the internal division within the Democratic Party over Biden's leadership could make it difficult for him to secure the nomination and win re-election.

With Biden's future uncertain, Harris has emerged as a potential contender for the Democratic nomination in 2024.

Harris has consistently polled well among Democratic voters, and she has the support of key Democratic constituencies, including Black women.

She has also been a vocal advocate for progressive policies, which could appeal to younger and more liberal voters.

However, Harris has also faced criticism for her handling of certain issues, such as immigration, during her time as a senator and vice president.

Whether Harris can overcome these criticisms and unite the Democratic Party behind her candidacy remains to be seen. But her potential as a presidential candidate is undeniable, and she could emerge as a formidable challenger to Biden or any other candidate who seeks the Democratic nomination in 2024.