Vice President Kamala Harris has affirmed her readiness to assume the presidency if the need arises, stating that understanding the possibility of taking over the role is a fundamental part of a vice president’s duty. During an overseas trip representing President Biden at the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Jakarta, Indonesia, Harris addressed questions regarding her preparedness for the Oval Office.
Associated Press reporter Chris Megerian inquired about her readiness for the presidency, referencing questions about President Biden’s age and her ability to step into the role. Harris responded positively, indicating that she is prepared for the responsibility.
Harris emphasized her confidence in President Biden’s well-being, stating, “Joe Biden is going to be fine. So that is not going to come to fruition.” However, she acknowledged the solemn responsibility that comes with being vice president, emphasizing that every vice president must be clear about the possibility of assuming the presidency.
The issue of presidential succession is a significant consideration for vice presidents, given that eight of the 45 individuals who have served as president have died in office, either through assassination or natural causes. President Biden, already the oldest-ever president, is set to turn 81 in November.
Political tradition often discourages speculation about the potential death or incapacity of elderly political figures, as it can be viewed as insensitive or distasteful. This practice was evident during the Trump administration when White House aides declined to comment on the health of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg before her passing.
Harris currently faces challenges in terms of public approval, with lower favorability ratings compared to President Biden. While these ratings can fluctuate, recent polls indicate that 40.7% of the public approves of her work, whereas 41.7% approve of President Biden.
President Biden has announced his intention to seek a second term in the upcoming 2024 election, despite the fact that he would be 86 years old upon completing a potential second term. Reports have indicated tension in his relationship with Vice President Harris, with suggestions that he views her as a “work in progress” and may not delegate significant responsibilities to her.
Harris was selected as Biden’s running mate in 2020, making history as the first female and second non-white vice president. However, their relationship during the primary season was marked by contentious moments, including Harris’s criticism of Biden’s past positions on desegregation through busing.
If President Biden decides not to run for re-election in 2024, it is anticipated that Harris’s candidacy could lead to a contested Democratic primary, potentially including challengers such as California Governor Gavin Newsom. In the Republican primary, former President Donald Trump has been a dominant figure, with polls indicating he would surpass Harris in a hypothetical matchup.