Despite her clear defeat, some Democrats are entertaining a far-fetched scenario where Kamala Harris could still ascend to the presidency before January’s inauguration—if President Joe Biden were to resign.
The suggestion came from Jamal Simmons, a former communications director for Harris, who proposed the idea during an appearance on CNN’s State of the Union. Simmons speculated that if Biden were to step down in the coming weeks, Harris could assume the role of President and serve out the remainder of his term, making her the first female and officially the 47th President of the United States.
“[Biden] could resign the presidency in the next 30 days and make Kamala Harris the president of the United States,” Simmons said when asked about key developments to watch during the 71 days before President-elect JD Vance’s inauguration.
Simmons went on to praise Biden’s leadership, stating, “Joe Biden’s been a phenomenal president. He’s delivered on so many promises. There’s one more he could fulfill: being a transitional figure.”
Simmons argued that such a move would not only avoid forcing Harris to oversee the certification of her own defeat in the Senate but would also dominate media coverage during a critical time for Democrats. He noted that Harris, as Vice President, also serves as President of the Senate and would be involved in certifying the election results.
No Indication Biden Would Step Down
While Simmons’ remarks have sparked conversation, there is no evidence to suggest that Biden would consider resigning before the end of his term. Nonetheless, the idea has gained some attention, with others humorously speculating on the possibility.
Jon Lovett, co-host of Pod Save America and a former speechwriter for President Barack Obama, joked about the situation, referencing former President Jimmy Carter, who has been in hospice care for over a year. “Jimmy Carter has to stay alive for four more years now,” Lovett quipped, noting Carter’s hope to see a female president in his lifetime. “There’s still a chance he sees one—but it requires Joe Biden doing something awesome.”
Harris’ Concession Speech
Following her electoral loss, Harris will be out of public office for the first time in two decades. However, in her concession speech on November 6, she signaled that her political career is far from over.
“I concede this election, but I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign—the fight for freedom, for opportunity, for fairness, and for the dignity of all people,” Harris said. “It’s a fight for the ideals at the heart of our nation, the ideals that reflect America at our best. That is a fight I will never give up.”
As President-elect JD Vance prepares to take office in January, Harris faces an uncertain future. While some Democrats cling to improbable scenarios for her to ascend to the presidency, Harris herself seems focused on what lies ahead, leaving the door open for her continued involvement in public service.
