State Democratic Party Chairs Endorse Kamala Harris as Presidential Contender
Key Takeaways
State Democratic party chairs have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s next presidential contender against Republican nominee and former president Donald Trump.
Background
Following President Joe Biden’s announcement that he would not seek re-election, the chairs convened a conference call to discuss the party’s next move.
Support for Harris
According to Ken Martin, president of the Association of State Democratic Committees, the group supported Harris because of her track record of winning tough elections and her leadership on key issues such as reproductive freedom, gun violence prevention, climate protection, justice reform, and rebuilding the economy.
“That person is our seated Vice President Kamala Harris,” Martin said in a statement.
Poll Results
A poll of delegates conducted by the Associated Press found that Harris received the backing of 2,538 delegates, well above the 1,976 required to win the delegates’ vote. On Monday, Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison declared that the party would choose a presidential contender by August 7.
Uncertainty Ahead
Before August 7, delegates may still change their minds. According to the AP survey, 57 delegates claimed they were unsure of their support for Harris.
Harris’s Strengths
Harris, who is two decades younger than Trump, leads the party on abortion rights, a topic that appeals to younger people and Democrats’ progressive base. Advocates contend that she would energize such voters, unite Black support, and provide keen debating abilities to forward the political argument against the outgoing president.
Mixed Reactions
While many Democrats have swiftly supported Harris as the party’s presidential contender against Trump, several influential party members, including former House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, remain silent.
Conclusion
The endorsement of Kamala Harris by State Democratic party chairs marks a significant development in the party’s presidential nominating process. As the party prepares to choose its next contender, Harris’s strengths on key issues and her ability to energize voters will likely play a key role in her campaign.
FAQs
Q: Who endorsed Kamala Harris as the party’s next presidential contender?
A: State Democratic party chairs endorsed Harris.
Q: Why did the chairs support Harris?
A: The chairs supported Harris because of her track record of winning tough elections and her leadership on key issues.
Q: How many delegates support Harris?
A: According to the Associated Press poll, Harris received the backing of 2,538 delegates.
Q: Will delegates still change their minds before August 7?
A: Yes, delegates may still change their minds before the party chooses its next contender.