Former State Department spokesperson Marie Harf weighs in on the debate among Democrats over whether to keep President Biden as the party's nominee, suggesting a "much better chance" with a different candidate on the ticket.
Amid growing concerns over President Biden's path to victory in November, Democrats are reportedly considering alternative candidates for the 2024 presidential ticket. Former State Department spokesperson Marie Harf has weighed in on the debate, suggesting that the party has a "much better chance" with a new nominee.
In an interview with Fox News, Harf expressed her belief that Biden's approval ratings and the current political climate make it challenging for him to secure a second term. "I think Democrats have a much better chance at winning with another name on the 2024 ticket," she said.
Democrats Mulling New Presidential Candidate for 2024 Amid Biden Concerns
Harf's comments come as some Democrats privately voice concerns about Biden's age, cognitive abilities, and policy positions. A recent poll conducted by ABC News and The Washington Post found that only 39% of Americans approve of Biden's job performance.
Emboldening these concerns, Montana Senator Jon Tester, a Democrat, skipped a critical meeting with Biden's top campaign advisers, claiming that his internal polls show him handily defeating his Republican opponent. This move has fueled speculation that Tester may be positioning himself as a potential challenger to Biden in 2024.
Democrats Mulling New Presidential Candidate for 2024 Amid Biden Concerns
Despite Tester's optimistic claims, nonpartisan political handicappers rate the Montana race as a "Toss Up," indicating a close contest. However, Tester's absence from the meeting with Biden's campaign team has raised eyebrows and sparked rumors that he may harbor ambitions beyond Montana.
Other Democrats have also expressed concerns about Biden's prospects. Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut recently said that his concerns about Biden's presidency have "deepened" after meeting with Biden's campaign advisers.
Democrats Mulling New Presidential Candidate for 2024 Amid Biden Concerns
Amid the growing unease, Democrats are reportedly considering alternative candidates for 2024. Harf mentioned Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and former presidential candidate Andrew Yang as potential contenders.
However, choosing a new nominee would present its own challenges. Biden remains the incumbent president, and any effort to challenge him would likely face significant resistance from his loyal base of supporters.
Democrats Mulling New Presidential Candidate for 2024 Amid Biden Concerns
Nevertheless, the debate over Biden's candidacy is likely to continue as Democrats assess their chances of success in 2024. Harf's comments have added fuel to the fire, suggesting that Democrats may be rethinking their strategy and considering a fresh start at the top of the ticket.
