Kamala Harris Faces Potential Rivals in Quest for Democratic Presidential Nomination

A U.S. Senator may challenge Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic nomination.

WASHINGTON — Amid growing speculation, Vice President Kamala Harris might face competition within her party for the Democratic nomination. While some Democratic leaders have pledged not to run, early signs suggest that the field may not clear entirely for Harris.

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, who left the Democratic Party earlier this year to become an independent, is contemplating a return. According to Jonathan Kott, Manchin’s longtime adviser, the senator might re-register as a Democrat to challenge Harris.

Manchin has been both a critical player in President Biden’s legislative successes and a frequent thorn in the side for his party. His potential bid would follow his recent call for Biden to step aside, made before Biden confirmed he would not be seeking re-election.

Inside the White House, some believe a serious challenge to Harris is unlikely, given Biden’s endorsement. This sentiment comes from an anonymous source familiar with internal discussions.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and California Governor Gavin Newsom, both viewed as top-tier contenders, have voiced support for Harris. Reiterating her stance, Whitmer announced she wouldn’t run, while Newsom endorsed Harris.

Other names floated as possible candidates, such as Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, appear unlikely to enter the race. Biden’s support for Harris and her anticipated fundraising advantage make a successful challenge daunting.

Biden delegates at the Democratic National Convention have also shown signs of rallying around Harris. “I believe it’s her time and she has earned the right to be our nominee,” said Paul Pezzella, a delegate from Massachusetts active in Democratic politics for decades.

Lee Cutler, political coordinator for the Northeast Area Labor Council under the Minnesota AFL-CIO, shared his reflections on the process. “When we voted for Biden, we were also voting for Kamala Harris,” Cutler said. “Despite wishing for an earlier start in replacing Biden, I take pride in what the president has accomplished.”