In my mind, I had already written a ’blog post pleading for President Joe Biden to step down and pass the reins to someone younger and more capable of standing up against Donald Trump. But then news broke that he had done just that. Bravo!
This changes everything. President Biden's decision to withdraw from the 2024 Election has brought renewed hope to a growing number of Democrats, including myself, who are concerned about his age and speech impediments hindering his ability to combat Trump's gaslighting and authoritarian ambitions. It's a politically savvy move: by stepping aside, Biden has done what Trump cannot—put party and country before his ego.
Now, Democrats must find a replacement candidate for the top of the ticket. The apparent frontrunner at this early stage is Vice President Kamala Harris, a strong choice given her experience as VP. However, there are some calls for an open convention where another candidate could emerge as the nominee since there were no primaries. I would love to see Pete Buttigieg as either Harris's running mate or at the top of the ticket. His handling of the Key Bridge collapse showed his leadership skills, and he is incredibly talented, speaking seven languages fluently and having the ability to quickly learn new ones on the fly (he even learned Norwegian just to read one book!). I can easily see him picking up Mandarin to communicate with Xi Jinping.
Other formidable Democratic candidates could also potentially take on Trump. California Governor Gavin Newsom has successfully overseen the sixth-largest economy in the world, while Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer could give us an advantage in a crucial battleground state. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has significant resources and connections that could garner support from Democrats quickly. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro could help keep the state in the blue column, while Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear could be better suited for McConnell's Senate seat.
The potential of these candidates is a reason to feel hopeful and optimistic. Any of them would be a strong opponent to confront Donald Trump's nonsensical and incoherent “speeches.” Their strength and capabilities should reassure us and give us confidence in the upcoming election.
I know I feel better already.