Democrats Mulling Alternatives to Biden: Is Time Running Out?
The 2024 Democratic primaries are quickly approaching, and whispers have begun about potential alternatives to President Biden as he continues to fall in the polls.
Is it Too Late to Switch Lanes?
Absolutely not. However, the window of opportunity is narrowing with the first states deadline to register coming up on October 15th.
Alternative Route 1: The Primaries
If the Democrats are aiming for a fresh face, they’ve got their playbook: the presidential primary. From January to June next year, blue voters will cast their choices.
While names like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Marianne Williamson are already in the ring, there’s not enough excitement in their corner. The stage seems ready for a dynamic candidate with the charm and chutzpah to energize the base.
Enter Gavin Newsom, the Californian heavyweight. He’s been a tour de force, storming red states, advocating for gun control via a national referendum, and even throwing down a debate challenge to Florida’s Gov. Ron DeSantis on Fox News. While Biden’s team seems slightly irked by Newsom’s rising prominence, they’ve officially labeled him as a significant ally.
But Newsom’s not the only one catching the limelight. Michigan’s beloved governor, Gretchen Whitmer, and 2020 presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg are other names making the rounds.
Alternative Route 2: A Twist at the Convention
Biden’s destiny isn’t solely in the hands of party voters. He can bow out anytime he wishes.
The prime time for such a move? The Democratic National Convention in August. While Biden’s slated to be the primary’s star, nothing’s carved in stone till the convention’s delegates make their final pick.
If Biden clinches most delegates but feels a change of heart, he could pivot, giving his backing to another candidate. As per party guidelines, delegates might not be strictly bound to their candidates, but they’re expected to channel the will of their electors. A nod from Biden? That could be a game-changer.
In a nutshell, it’s a gripping political drama with all the twists and turns, and we’re all eager to see how it plays out!
