Newsom Backs ‘Ideal’ Kamala Harris – California Governor Gavin Newsom has thrown his unequivocal support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, describing her as “absolutely” the best running mate for President Joe Biden in the upcoming election. In a recent CNN interview, Newsom applauded the Biden-Harris administration’s achievements, showcasing bipartisan collaborations on critical issues such as infrastructure, gun control, debt ceiling, and the CHIPS and Science Act.
Newsom, a prominent figure within the Democratic party and widely touted as a potential future presidential contender himself, highlighted the exemplary performance of the current administration, emphasizing Harris’s vital role in its success. This endorsement could significantly boost the Biden-Harris campaign, particularly in addressing concerns about President Biden’s age.
Addressing Concerns about Biden’s Age
With President Biden set to be 80 years old during a potential second term in 2025, concerns have emerged about his effectiveness and ability to govern. According to an August survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, 69% of Democrats expressed apprehensions about Biden’s age impacting his efficiency in another term.
Spotlight on Kamala Harris
As discussions about the future Democratic standard-bearer intensify, Kamala Harris has garnered significant attention, especially considering the possibility of her leading the party in 2028. Newsom’s backing further solidifies Harris’s prominence and positions her favorably in the Democratic sphere.
Newsom’s Crucial Support
Governor Newsom has been an ardent supporter of the Biden-Harris administration and a vital campaign surrogate since Biden’s reelection campaign began. He has debunked speculations about challenging Biden in the 2024 Democratic primary, reiterating his steadfast support for Biden’s candidacy.
Newsom has had his own brushes with failure of course. In 2021, he faced a recall election in California, due to an effort by some disgruntled citizens to remove him from office. The campaign was fueled by dissatisfaction with his handling of issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, homelessness, and wildfire management. However, he ultimately survived the recall election and remained in office.
Is Kamala in Crisis?
Many voters, Republican and Democrat alike, are sure Harris’ presence could be detrimental to Biden’s chances in 2024.
According to Rasmussen Reports, when likely voters were asked whether Kamala Harris was performing better or worse than previous vice presidents, the results were strikingly unfavorable.
A significant 50% of respondents deemed her performance worse, while only 22% saw an improvement, and 24% perceived no difference.
These opinions hold significance as they might influence Biden’s reelection prospects.
The survey also inquired whether Harris was aiding or harming Biden’s chances, and a notable margin of 33% to 22% indicated that her presence was more damaging than beneficial. Equally significant is the fact that 41% believed Harris’s influence was negligible.
Voters and DC pundits are well aware that Kamala Harris has never been among the most popular Democratic politicians. Both her and Biden have a big challenge before next year, whatever their plans.
As the 2024 elections approach, the endorsement from a potential presidential contender like Newsom bolsters Harris’s candidacy and affirms her position as a significant asset to the Democratic ticket.
About the Author
Georgia Gilholy is a journalist based in the United Kingdom who has been published in Newsweek, The Times of Israel, and the Spectator. Gilholy writes about international politics, culture, and education.
