After Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the US presidential race, Democrats, one by one, began to describe him as a selfless American hero – and many of them solidified his support for Vice President Kamala Harris.

The decision to drop out and support Harris brought hope: Donations that had stagnated in the last period immediately increased due to Biden's public appearances, and Harris raised more than $81 million, more money in a 24-hour period than any other candidate in history of the United States. So far, more than $100 million has been raised.

Biden's endorsement, along with the vocal support of many prominent figures in the party, means there's a very good chance come early August that Harris will run unopposed or be a strong front-runner even if someone runs against her. One potential candidate, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, quickly said she would not run; Another governor, Gavin Newsom of California, is a strong contender to run against Harris. Both endorsed her, along with more than 100 other Democrats.

In her favor is the Democratic establishment's caution not to appear chaotic in public as they wage open battle at the Democratic National Convention — along with concerns that certain categories of voters could defect from the party if Harris is denied the nomination that some believe that he has already earned it.

But how could she fare politically in the match against Donald Trump? Can her political background and experience overshadow the popularity and trust that Trump has undoubtedly gained since the assassination attempt?

A stronger candidate?

Harris' advocates argue that she is a more dynamic and stronger option than Biden. At 59, she is significantly younger and has more of an edge on the campaign trail. But should we see age in itself as an advantage?

Perhaps it should, especially after Biden's performance against Trump a few weeks ago. Her recent appearances, particularly in advocating for reproductive rights after Roe v. Wade was overturned, have demonstrated her ability to connect with voters on substantive issues. In the same case, Trump fought hard against abortion rights and brought three Supreme Court justices who he hoped would rule in favor of his ideology. On the other hand, polling data shows that Harris is only slightly better than Biden in head-to-head contests against former President Donald Trump.

This advantage is crucial at a time when swing states can be decisive and when American citizens have less and less confidence in the voting system.

Harris' background as a prosecutor also gives her a unique perspective, although her decisions have not always been popular. She will likely use that position to create the prosecutor-criminal dynamic in relation to Trump. Harris will target Trump in the next debates, using the facts of his administration and the policies he enacted, as well as prosecutorial questioning techniques to get answers from him.

Her ability to cast herself as a centrist who can appeal to a wide range of voters, combined with her progressive views on key issues, adds to her appeal. In a country like America where identity politics (social organizing around identities such as race, gender, sexual orientation and ethnicity to represent the rights and interests of those groups) has precedent when selecting a candidate for any position, not president, Harris has a big advantage.

This often involves highlighting and challenging systemic inequalities and promoting representation and inclusion in political processes. In the case of Kamala Harris, identity politics plays a significant role, as her identity as the first female vice president of African and South Asian descent represents marginalized groups. Her candidacy and potential rule symbolize the progress of these communities, influencing how voters perceive her and how she is supported or criticized in the wider political landscape.

The risks and challenges

However, Harris' potential candidacy is not without risks. Critics point to her lackluster performance during the 2019 presidential campaign, which failed to gain a significant lead in the eyes of voters. Her tenure as vice president has also been marked by criticism of her handling of critical issues such as immigration and the border crisis. Furthermore, her approval ratings, while slightly better than Biden's, are still not overwhelmingly positive.

The most significant challenge facing Harris is the potential backlash from voters, who could see her candidacy as a continuation of the shortcomings of the Biden administration. Biden's withdrawal has raised questions about his health and effectiveness, and Harris will need to distance himself from these matters while still referencing the achievements of the current administration.

Although Harris seems like a stronger candidate than Biden, right now, it is very easy to beat Biden because the threshold is quite low. Democrats opposed to crowning her as the running mate raise an obvious question: If we're willing to go out of our way to force Biden out, surely we shouldn't let his VP be the "default" nominee?

This argument is bolstered by evidence from her candidacy, which faltered after her support waned over time, with The New York Times describing her as "an uneven 'campaigner' who changes her vision and tactics with little effect."

Perhaps the most fundamental problem for Harris is that in an election that could bring about new changes, she will have to run according to the Democratic model of Biden. This model includes a strong emphasis on unity, stability, a focus on the middle class and working families, building coalitions in Congress, and empathy and connecting with voters on a personal level.

So far, the Republican way of playing this election season seems to unquestionably link Harris to the Biden administration, arguing that she failed to warn the public about his declining vitality.

The international perspective

A Kamala Harris presidency could have significant implications for international relations, including the United States' relationship with North Macedonia. As a member of NATO and a candidate for entry into the European Union, North Macedonia seeks support from the United States in its efforts to further integrate into Western institutions.

Harris' commitment to multilateralism and strengthening alliances could be good for North Macedonia. Her administration can place a renewed focus on supporting NATO allies and strengthening democratic values ​​in Eastern Europe. This could mean increased diplomatic engagement, military cooperation and economic support for North Macedonia, helping it balance the influence of Russia and other regional powers.

In addition, Harris' background as a former prosecutor and her strong stance on respecting the rule of law could translate into a strong approach to promoting anti-corruption measures and judicial reforms in North Macedonia. This aligns with the broader US policy of promoting good governance and transparency in the Balkans.

However, Harris' presidency may also bring challenges. If her administration takes a hard line on issues such as immigration and border security, it could affect visa policies and immigration procedures that affect Macedonian citizens.

Furthermore, its focus on domestic issues such as the health system, economic inequality, the criminal system, climate change, and public education may divert attention and resources from international engagements.

What's next?

As the Democratic National Convention approaches, which will be held August 19-22, the party faces a difficult decision. While there is considerable pressure to present a united front and avoid a divisive preliminary battle, it is essential to thoroughly assess all potential candidates.

The Democratic Party must balance the desire for continuity and stability with the need for a candidate who can fight side by side with Trump. Harris' potential to energize the Democratic base, especially among young and minority voters, is a strong argument in her favor. However, the party must also consider whether it can broaden its appeal to a broader electorate and effectively counter the narrative that Republicans are likely to use, which is that every Democratic candidate will not be Trump's equal.

Critical point

The next few weeks will be crucial for the Democratic Party. Biden's endorsement of Harris gives her a significant advantage, but puts the onus on her to prove she can lead the party to victory.

By endorsing Harris, Biden is setting the stage for a potentially transformative election. Whether she will justify the trust and ensure a victory for the Democrats remains to be seen.

Republic

(The author is a student at NYU Abu Dhabi)

THE LANGUAGE IN WHICH THEY ARE WRITTEN, AS WELL AS THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THE COLUMNS, DO NOT ALWAYS REFLECT THE EDITORIAL POLICY OF "FREE PRESS"