Joe Biden's Long Time Senate Colleague Tom Harkin Wants 'New Candidate' Following Debate Flop

Former Iowa Senator Tom Harkin, a longtime colleague of President Joe Biden, has ignited a contentious debate within the Democrats.

Harkin's call for Biden to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race follows a widely criticized debate performance against former President Trump, according to Fox News.

Tom Harkin, speaking to Julie Gammack's Iowa Potluck, highlighted voter perceptions favoring Trump's ability to assert control in debates despite criticisms of his responses as "meandering" and "full of lies."

The 84-year-old senator urged Democratic senators and governors to petition Biden to release his delegates and allow the convention to select a new candidate, citing Thursday's debate as irreparably damaging.

President Joe Biden's lackluster showing in the recent CNN presidential debate has sparked intense speculation and concern within Democratic ranks.

Critics question his ability to effectively challenge former President Trump in the upcoming Presidential election.

The fallout from Biden's performance has raised significant logistical and strategic challenges for the Democrats, with many members expressing doubt over his suitability as the party's nominee.

Despite widespread anxiety, the possibility of Biden stepping down remains remote, given the proximity to the Presidential election.

Potential Replacements and Party Dynamics

Vice President Kamala Harris emerges as a primary candidate to replace President Joe Biden, leveraging her role and visibility within the administration, BBC reports.

Despite defending Biden's debate performance, Harris faces scrutiny over her approval ratings and party support.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan and Governor Gavin Newsom of California are also cited as potential contenders.

Their respective gubernatorial records and national profiles bolster their candidacy in a potential reshuffling of the Democratic ticket.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, and Governor J.B. Pritzker of Illinois round out the list of possible replacements, each bringing distinct strengths and political acumen to the table.

Complex Pathways to a New Nominee

The prospect of replacing Joe Biden on the presidential ticket presents a complex and unprecedented challenge for the Democrats.

Should Biden choose to step aside, it would trigger an open convention scenario, allowing delegates to reconsider their allegiances.

Democrats' convention rules stipulate a delegate majority is necessary to secure the nomination, underscoring the significance of delegate alignment and strategic endorsements.

While President Joe Biden retains significant delegate support, the potential for a floor fight underscores intra-party tensions.

Moreover, party rules permit flexibility in candidate selection, provided delegates act with "good conscience."

This clause affords delegates the freedom to reassess their support, potentially reshaping the presidential race dynamics in unforeseen ways.

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) holds the authority to appoint a new nominee in the event of a vacancy, invoking a consultative process with party leaders and members, Yahoo! News noted.

DNC Chair Jaime Harrison would play a pivotal role in guiding the party through such a transition, ensuring democratic principles guide the decision-making process.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

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