Opinion | Kamala Harris Could Win This Election. Let Her.

After watching the presidential debate on Thursday night, like many Americans, I found myself unable to sleep. So, I did something out of the ordinary and tuned in to the pundit commentary on cable news. I was pleasantly surprised when Vice President Kamala Harris appeared on CNN with Anderson Cooper shortly after the debate. As I watched her calmly and methodically respond to tough questions from Cooper, it struck me that the best way out of the mess created by President Biden’s disastrous debate performance is for him to graciously step down and endorse his capable vice president to take his place.

I understand that this may sound far-fetched, but hear me out. While Harris did not succeed in the last Democratic presidential primary, navigating the complexities of introducing oneself to the party base, promoting ideas, and competing with rivals can be especially challenging for women, especially Black women, in a presidential race. However, in a national setting against Donald Trump, Harris’s strengths as a relentless prosecutor could shine. She has the power to make a compelling case against Trump, highlighting his flaws and threats to democracy.

Many women, a crucial voting bloc, would likely appreciate seeing Harris take on Trump. Unlike her previous debate with Biden, where she confronted him on policy differences, facing off against Trump would be a different scenario. Harris’s clean record and ability to stand up to bullies could resonate with voters, particularly moderate ones.

Following Thursday night’s debate, it’s easy to overlook Trump’s weaknesses. While he delivered a poor performance filled with falsehoods and insults, Biden failed to effectively counter him. Harris, with her killer instincts and poise, could have effectively challenged Trump on key issues. Her success as a prosecutor and statewide candidate in California, as well as her strong presence on the Senate Judiciary Committee, demonstrate her ability to handle tough situations.

Watching Harris face off against Trump would not only energize progressives but also appeal to suburban women who value reproductive rights. Despite some policy disagreements, Harris’s toughness on immigration and other issues could attract voters. With the right running mate, she could have a strong chance of winning the election.

While Harris’s favorability ratings may not be ideal, recent polls suggest she could gain the trust of voters if she were to replace Biden. Her involvement in national security issues and her ability to exceed low expectations make her a viable candidate to lead the Democratic Party to victory.

If Harris were to become the first woman president in these unlikely circumstances, it would symbolize the typical path for women to assume leadership roles: cleaning up after a man’s mistakes. This would be a historic moment, breaking the highest glass ceiling and paving the way for future women leaders. Additionally, endorsing Harris would allow Biden to end his career with dignity and honor, preserving his legacy and ensuring a smooth transition of power.