USA (Commonwealth Union)_ According to the recent polling data from CNN, Vice President Kamala Harris, whose background includes both Indian and African heritage, may have a stronger chance of winning the White House compared to President Joe Biden in the upcoming November presidential elections in the USA. This report coincides with increasing concerns among Democratic Party members about Biden’s declining approval ratings. Accordingly, the poll stated that the slightly stronger support for Harris against Trump can be attributed in part to broader backing from women, (where 50% of female voters favor Harris over Trump, compared to 44% for Biden against Trump) and independents (where 43% for Harris and 34% for Biden).
Also read: India bags Commonwealth Short Story Prize
The poll highlighted Biden’s vulnerability, particularly after his dull and uninspiring performance in a recent debate in Atlanta. Despite his spirited opposition to Trump during the debate, the aftermath intensified calls within the Democratic Party for Biden to step aside and allow another candidate to lead the charge in the November 5 elections. According to the CNN poll, in a hypothetical matchup against Trump, Harris fares almost equally, securing 45 percent of registered voters’ support as compared to Trump’s 47 percent. This statistical tie underscores the uncertainty of voter preferences at this stage.
Also read: Indian-origin tech CEO highest paid in US
In response to inquiries about the poll results, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre refrained from direct commentary. He said that he was constrained to speaking directly to their poll and understood and heard the question. He emphasized the need to be mindful that the campaign had laid out their argument of the case. He added that it was something for the campaign to address and answer. He said, “I’m constrained to speaking directly to your poll and I get it and I hear the question. I got to be mindful, that is something for the campaign as you started saying, what the campaign has laid out their argument of the case. That is something for them to take up and that is something for them to answer”.
Jean-Pierre emphasized President Biden’s track record instead, highlighting his achievements and their alignment with the majority of Americans. He stated that the president’s records and accomplishments are high during his four year tenure. He noted the importance of recognizing this. Additionally, he mentioned that with age comes wisdom and experience, qualities that the president certainly possesses. He added, “What I can speak to is the president’s record. What I can speak to, what he’s been able to accomplish and the things that he’s been able to do and get done is actually in line with the majority of Americans. And I think that’s important too, to note. And again, I will say with age comes wisdom and experience and that’s certainly something that the president brings”.
The poll’s findings underscore the evolving dynamics within the Democratic Party as the election draws nearer. It appears that Harris’ potential candidacy resonates more strongly with crucial voter demographics such as women and independents compared to Biden. Additionally, an Ipsos poll indicated that former First Lady Michelle Obama would lead Trump by a significant margin of 50 percent to 39 percent. But, her office confirmed in March that she will not compete in the presidential election this year, adding further nuance to the unfolding electoral landscape.
Additionally, in a latest development, responding to the poll results and the mixed reactions of the people and the parties, Mr Biden has issued his statement regarding the polls. The 81-year-old President has clearly stated that he is the presidential candidate of the Democratic party and that he is running for the upcoming elections. He said, “I’m the nominee of the Democratic Party. No one’s pushing me out. I’m not leaving. Let me say this as clearly and simply as I can: I’m running”.
