Why Biden Chose Kamala Harris: An Analysis of Strategic Considerations Over Personal Baggage

As the United States approaches another election year, a key player from the 2020 race is still a source of discussion: Kamala Harris as Joe Biden's running mate. The choice of Harris was a contentious one, given the tumultuous relationship between the two during the primary. Critics argue that Biden's decision was driven more by political strategy than genuine sentiment. This article delves into the strategic considerations behind the Biden-Harris ticket, refuting some of the conspiracy theories that have circulated.

Strategic Voting and Political Clout

Biden's decision to choose Kamala Harris as his vice-presidential running mate was primarily a strategic choice aimed at capturing the Black and female vote. The likelihood of winning elections hinges on a candidate's ability to appeal to diverse demographics. Given Biden's struggles with the Black vote, his campaign team had to find a candidate who could serve as a symbol of unity and diversity. Kamala Harris, known for her strong stance on civil rights and gender equality, was seen as the perfect fit.

Barack Obama's Influence

Though some critics have speculated that Kamala Harris initially approached Biden, the truth of the matter is that it was Barack Obama who recommended her to the Biden campaign. Obama, a former President with a deep understanding of voter demographics, recognized the strategic importance of including a highly visible Black female on the Democratic ticket. This choice was not about personal favoritism but about maximizing electoral success.

Estimated Pool of Candidates

In the process of selecting a running mate, Biden had a limited pool of options. The pool of qualified women of color was essentially limited to Kamala Harris. Her record on civil rights, her experience as a senator, and her high public profile made her the obvious choice. This scarcity of potential candidates further underscores the strategic nature of the decision, rather than any underhanded manipulation or personal pacts.

Manipulation and Lack of Depth

Some critics have accused Biden of choosing Kamala Harris because she is "dumber than himself" and easily manipulable. These allegations are unfounded. Harris has a diverse professional background, having served as the Attorney General of California and a US Senator. Her policy expertise and legislative experience speak to her capability and not her intellectual acumen. Moreover, a good running mate is more than just a symbolic figure; they are a partner in governance, offering a complementary set of skills and policy insights.

Furthermore, the notion that Harris talks in "gibberish" is a strawman argument. Communication style is subjective and can vary widely. Harris's approach to communication may be different from Biden's but that does not imply a lack of clarity or intelligence. Effective governance requires a combination of skill sets, including communication, decision-making, and policy implementation, none of which suggest that Harris is unsuitable for the role.

Conclusion

Joe Biden's choice of Kamala Harris as his running mate was a well-thought-out strategic decision aimed at ensuring the Democratic ticket's success. The choice was influenced by the need to appeal to key demographics, the recommendation of a figure who is well-trusted in the political community, and the reality of the limited candidates available. While robust discussion about political strategies is crucial, it is important to avoid unfounded accusations and base our assessments on objective facts and observed actions.