With President Joe Biden ending his reelection bid and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris, Democrats now face the challenge of navigating an unprecedented shift this late in the election year.
The Democratic convention, set to take place in Chicago in August, was initially planned as a coronation for Biden. Now, it will be an open contest where nearly 4,700 delegates must select a new candidate to challenge Republican Donald Trump in the fall.
“This is quite obviously such a moment in American politics and American history,” said Bill Barrow, The Associated Press’ National Political Reporter. “There’s not an obvious precedent.”
The path forward is complex, despite Biden’s endorsement of Harris. There are still unanswered questions about logistics, funding, and political repercussions.
Biden secured victories in every state primary and caucus earlier this year, losing only in the territory of American Samoa. Over 3,896 delegates were pledged to support him, but current party rules do not allow Biden to transfer these delegates to another candidate. Politically, however, his endorsement carries significant weight.
With Biden stepping aside, Democrats technically face an open convention. Yet, his endorsement puts the party in uncertain territory.
Harris must now work to solidify support among almost 4,000 delegates from states, territories, and the District of Columbia, as well as over 700 superdelegates, which include party leaders, certain elected officials, and former presidents and vice presidents.
Even before Biden’s announcement, potential contenders like California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer were mentioned alongside Harris. However, many Democrats, both publicly and privately, argued that it would be a clear choice to elevate Harris, the first woman, first Black woman, and first person of South Asian descent to hold national office.
Given the importance of Black voters, especially Black women, to Biden’s nomination and his selection of Harris as his running mate, passing her over for a white nominee would be risky for the party. Democrats already faced significant challenges before Biden’s withdrawal. Newsom, Whitmer, and any other Democrat must consider the benefits and risks of challenging Harris now versus preserving goodwill for future presidential primaries.
The vice presidential nomination is a separate convention vote. Typically, the convention ratifies the choice of the nominee. If Harris quickly consolidates support, she could name her vice-presidential choice and have the delegates ratify it. However, if there is an extended fight, the vice presidency could become part of the negotiation process, reminiscent of earlier convention eras.