Nearly three weeks after President Joe Biden’s lackluster debate performance, discussions within the Democratic Party about potential replacements for the 2024 presidential race have intensified. Despite Biden’s efforts to reassure his supporters through calls and prime-time interviews, concerns about his age and mental acuity persist. This has prompted speculation about who might step in if Biden decides to withdraw from the campaign. While Vice President Kamala Harris and Governors Gavin Newsom (D-CA) and Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) are the most frequently mentioned alternatives, several other names are emerging as possible candidates to lead the Democratic ticket.
Gov. Wes Moore (D-MD)
Wes Moore, the newly elected governor of Maryland, has quickly become a rising star within the Democratic Party. Moore’s decisive leadership during the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore earlier this year brought him national recognition. His popularity is reflected in a polling memo from BlueLabs Analytics, which shows Moore outperforming Biden by roughly five points in battleground states. Moore’s strong appeal among voters in these crucial areas underscores his potential as a viable presidential candidate.
Gov. Josh Shapiro (D-PA)
Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania is another first-term governor gaining attention as a potential presidential candidate. Shapiro enjoys high approval ratings from both Democrats and Republicans in his key battleground state. A Philadelphia Inquirer-New York Times-Siena College survey from May found that nearly one-third of Trump supporters have a positive view of Shapiro. His high-profile response to the Interstate 95 highway collapse in Philadelphia and the assassination attempt on former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, have further bolstered his national profile. According to BlueLabs Analytics, Shapiro significantly outperforms Biden in battleground states, highlighting his strong candidacy.
Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ)
Senator Mark Kelly, a former astronaut and the husband of former Rep. Gabby Giffords, has proven to be a formidable political figure in traditionally Republican Arizona. First elected to the Senate in 2020 and securing a full term in 2022, Kelly’s success in this critical swing state makes him a potential contender for the presidency. Although not a primary name floated for replacing Biden, the BlueLabs Analytics memo indicates that Kelly performs better than Biden in battleground states, demonstrating his potential appeal on the national stage.
Gov. Andy Beshear (D-KY)
Governor Andy Beshear is a notable Democratic leader in the predominantly Republican state of Kentucky. Beshear secured reelection in November 2023 despite facing a strong Republican challenger, showcasing his political resilience. His popularity in a deeply red state is significant, although his limited national recognition could pose a challenge. A Reuters-Ipsos poll shows Beshear trailing former President Trump narrowly, 40% to 36%, suggesting he could be competitive on a larger scale if given the opportunity.
Potential Implications for the Democratic Party
President Biden has consistently reiterated his intention to run for reelection. However, as his poll numbers continue to trail behind Trump’s and concerns about his capacity to lead persist, the Democratic Party may need to seriously consider alternative candidates. The contemplation of figures like Moore, Shapiro, Kelly, and Beshear indicates a readiness within the party to adapt and possibly pivot if Biden’s position becomes increasingly untenable as the election approaches.
This situation presents both challenges and opportunities for the Democratic Party. On one hand, transitioning to a new candidate could create uncertainty and disrupt campaign momentum. On the other hand, a fresh face at the top of the ticket might invigorate the party’s base, attract independent voters, and improve overall electoral prospects. The emerging leaders being considered offer a diverse range of backgrounds and strengths, potentially broadening the party’s appeal.
Conclusion
As the 2024 presidential race heats up, the Democratic Party finds itself at a crossroads. President Biden’s recent debate performance and ongoing concerns about his age and mental acuity have fueled discussions about potential replacements. Governors Wes Moore, Josh Shapiro, and Andy Beshear, along with Senator Mark Kelly, are emerging as strong contenders who could step in if necessary. Each of these leaders brings unique strengths and could potentially energize the party and improve its chances in the upcoming election. As the situation develops, the Democratic Party will need to weigh its options carefully and decide on the best path forward to ensure a successful campaign in 2024.