Muthomi Ireri
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, the political dynamic between President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris is under scrutiny, especially regarding how Biden’s involvement in the campaign might impact Harris’s political future. While Biden’s role as a sitting president typically carries significant influence, his age, approval ratings, and public perception are factors that could either bolster or hinder Harris’s chances should she choose to run for president, either in 2024 or in the future.
Biden’s Influence on Harris’s Campaign
**1. ** Biden’s Approval Ratings:
- Biden’s approval ratings have fluctuated during his presidency, influenced by various factors such as the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy, foreign policy decisions (e.g., the withdrawal from Afghanistan), and inflation. A sitting president’s approval rating is often a critical factor in their ability to rally support for their party’s candidate. If Biden maintains or improves his approval ratings leading up to the election, his support could be a significant asset to Harris. Conversely, if his ratings decline, it could be a liability, potentially dragging down Harris’s campaign.
**2. ** Age and Vitality:
- Biden, who would be 82 at the start of a second term, has faced questions about his age and health. These concerns might impact voters’ confidence in his leadership and, by extension, their perception of the broader Democratic ticket, including Harris. If voters view Biden’s age as a disadvantage, it could complicate Harris’s campaign, especially if she is seen as closely tied to his administration. On the other hand, if Biden effectively addresses these concerns, it could reassure voters and benefit Harris.
**3. ** Biden’s Campaign Strategy:
- Biden’s decision on how actively he will campaign alongside Harris is crucial. If he decides to take a backseat, allowing Harris to take the lead and shine independently, it could help her build a stronger personal brand and appeal to voters as a capable leader in her own right. However, if Biden plays a central role in the campaign, it could overshadow Harris, making it harder for her to distinguish herself. The balance between Biden’s support and Harris’s autonomy will be a delicate one to manage.
Potential Benefits to Harris
**1. ** Association with Presidential Successes:
- Harris could benefit from being closely associated with the successes of the Biden administration, such as the passage of significant legislation (e.g., the infrastructure bill, COVID-19 relief packages), economic recovery efforts, and diplomatic achievements. If Biden is perceived positively, Harris can leverage this association to gain credibility and support from voters who view the administration’s achievements favorably.
**2. ** Experience and Continuity:
- As the sitting vice president, Harris has had a front-row seat to presidential decision-making and crisis management. This experience could be a significant advantage, positioning her as a candidate who offers continuity and stability. Biden’s endorsement and active support could reinforce this narrative, portraying Harris as the best candidate to carry on the work of the current administration.
Potential Challenges for Harris
**1. ** Ties to Controversial Policies or Failures:
- If Biden’s presidency is marred by controversies or perceived failures (e.g., ongoing economic issues, immigration challenges, or foreign policy missteps), Harris could be negatively impacted by her association with these issues. Voters dissatisfied with the administration may project their frustrations onto Harris, viewing her as an extension of Biden’s presidency rather than a candidate with her own vision and agenda.
**2. ** Managing Public Perception:
- Public perception of Biden’s leadership, particularly regarding his age and vitality, could influence voters’ views of Harris’s readiness to step into the role of president. If there is significant public concern about Biden’s ability to serve a full term, Harris’s readiness and capability to assume the presidency may come under heightened scrutiny. How Harris and her campaign address these concerns will be critical to her success.
Conclusion
President Joe Biden’s involvement in Kamala Harris’s campaign could have both positive and negative impacts. While his support could lend credibility and reinforce her experience, there are also risks associated with his approval ratings, age, and public perception. Harris’s ability to navigate this complex relationship, while asserting her own identity and leadership, will be crucial as she positions herself for the upcoming election. The success of their joint campaign will likely depend on finding the right balance between Biden’s support and Harris’s independence as a candidate.
Dj Vnyash
