What Happens if Joe Biden Steps Down as Presidential Candidate?
The recent lackluster performance of US President Joe Biden in a debate with challenger Donald Trump has sparked speculation about the possibility of him stepping down as the Democratic party’s nominee at the last minute. This scenario would be unprecedented in modern American election history, raising questions about the process of replacing him.
Replacing a Candidate
If Biden were to exit the race, the party’s delegates would have to select a new nominee. This would harken back to a time when party bosses chose candidates through behind-the-scenes deal-making and multiple rounds of voting.
In the event of such a situation, potential replacements include Vice President Kamala Harris or other prominent Democratic politicians like Governors Gavin Newsom and Gretchen Whitmer. However, the party has emphasized its support for Biden, with former President Barack Obama defending him amidst speculation about his candidacy.
While third-party candidates have historically made significant impacts, the American electoral system ultimately favors the two-party dominance, making it challenging for an independent candidate to secure victory.
Despite the uncertainty, the American political landscape remains dynamic, with the possibility of unexpected developments shaping the upcoming presidential election.