Since 2008, when I fervently backed Barack Obama, my enthusiasm for Democratic presidential nominees has waned. Over time, the limitations of liberal politics became evident, and I found myself drifting leftward. Voting became a duty rather than a passion, especially after Bernie Sanders lost to Hillary Clinton in 2016 and again in 2020, when I reluctantly supported Joe Biden. As another election looms, I urge the party not to thrust upon us an 81-year-old candidate struggling with basic issues like abortion. Give me Kamala Harris instead.
If Sanders were younger, my choice might differ, but practical options are sparse. Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan shows promise, though lacking in national recognition and experience. Similar challenges face Governor J.B. Pritzker of Illinois. Harris, by contrast, offers familiarity and a proven track record as part of a winning ticket against Donald Trump, positioning her competitively according to recent polling.
Thursday’s debate underscored that Biden’s era is ending, demanding a credible alternative to Trump's divisive agenda. Beyond the clinical appeal, Harris represents a moral imperative. A second Trump term threatens national stability, worsens economic disparities, and erodes rights for marginalized groups. Democrats must acknowledge Biden's electoral challenges and recognize that Harris offers a viable solution.
Admittedly, I wasn’t initially drawn to Harris. As a former prosecutor, she faced criticism for policy shifts and perceived technocracy. Her journey from the left to the center during the primaries left her polarizing and financially unsupported, yet her vice-presidential candidacy revived prospects.
For many on the left, voting is a compromise; idealistic promises often yield to political realities. Biden-Harris exceeded my expectations on labor and economic policies, albeit imperfectly. Harris, I believe, would maintain this trajectory, offering a preferable alternative to Trump’s agenda.
My support for Harris is driven partly by frustration with Biden’s campaign and its insulation from scrutiny. Recent debates highlighted his vulnerabilities, challenging claims of fitness for office. Insisting on his superiority over Harris insults both her and voters' intelligence.
If this election is truly urgent, the Democratic Party must pivot from Biden to a more capable leader. Harris offers stability and competence, albeit tinged with disappointment that our first female president might be chosen out of necessity rather than aspiration. While my political goals—like Medicare for All—remain unmet, settling for Harris seems the pragmatic choice this year.