A Strategic Move: The Selection of Kamala Harris as Vice President and Her Future Potential

The selection of Kamala Harris as Vice President Joe Biden’s running mate in the 2020 election was a strategic move aimed at diverse demographics and not necessarily a clear indication of her future as President. This article explores the strategic implications of her selection and her potential path to the presidency.

Strategic Intent Behind the Selection

Some argue that Kamala Harris's selection was more of a strategic imperative rather than a harbinger of her presidential aspirations. During the debates, Kamala was seen attacking Joe Biden, an action that syndicated this distrust among some of his supporters. Additionally, she was widely unpopular among certain demographics, and her swift withdrawal from the race before any votes were counted only added to her negative image. According to some, Joe Biden recognized that Kamala’s unpopularity wouldn’t directly threaten his presidency. He saw her as a 'human shield' against potential impeachment.

It’s worth noting that the selection of a Vice President is often strategic, with the goal of broadening the party's appeal and ensuring continued support throughout the term. Given the context of the 2020 election and the shifting political landscape, Biden’s choice of Kamala Harris might be interpreted as a calculated effort to neutralize potential opposition attacks while also appealing to diverse and underrepresented groups.

The Historical Context of Vice Presidents Holding the Office

Historically, only a select few Vice Presidents have succeeded directly to the presidency, and even fewer have achieved the office through their own election. To illustrate, let’s examine the last few Vice Presidents who completed one or two terms. Traditionally, the path to the presidency through the role of Vice President has been less direct:

Eisenhower - Nixon LBJ - Humphrey Ford - Rockefeller Carter - Mondale Reagan - GHW Bush Clinton - Gore GW Bush - Cheney Biden - Trump - Pence

From this list, only a few Vice Presidents have gone on to become President. For instance, Humphrey, Mondale, and Quayle did not succeed directly. Nixon and GHW Bush became President after serving multiple terms in the Presidency, not immediately after being Vice President. GHW Bush succeeded directly, but these cases are exceptions rather than the rule.

For Kamala Harris to become President, she would need to overcome several significant hurdles. The path to the White House is not always straightforward, and even a Vice President's tenure can be overshadowed by the success or failures of their administration.

Biden's Strategic Vision for America

In the broader context, Joe Biden positioned himself as a "transition" President, a bridge between his generation and the concerns of a younger, more diverse future. This vision became even more relevant as the Trump administration reached its end. Kamala Harris’s selection aligned with this vision, representing a forward-thinking approach to America’s future.

From a strategic standpoint, Biden’s choice of Kamala Harris underscored his intention to bridge generational and demographic divides. Her selection helped secure the African American and Women's vote, vital components for a Democratic victory.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the selection of Kamala Harris as Vice President was undoubtedly strategic, this does not guarantee a direct path to the presidency. The historical context and patterns suggest that the role of Vice President is not a guaranteed stepping stone to the presidency. However, Kamala Harris’s selection reflects a broader strategic vision aimed at ensuring the support and inclusivity of the Democratic party.

As America moves into the post-Trump era, Kamala Harris's role as Vice President has laid the groundwork for her potential future as President. The question remains to be seen whether her tenure will position her strongly enough to run for the presidency in 2024 and beyond.