NEW DELHI — After President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s new nominee, the name of former First Lady Michelle Obama quickly began trending online as a potential challenger to Republican candidate Donald Trump.
On Sunday, Biden, 81, announced he was ending his bid for re-election and supporting Harris, who is of Indian and African descent, as the Democratic Party’s new candidate. Recent polls show that many voters prefer Michelle Obama as the presidential candidate. A survey by The Center Square Voters’ Voice found that Michelle Obama is the top choice for 24% of Democrat-leaning voters, while Kamala Harris was ranked seventh with only 7%.
After Biden’s announcement, former President Barack Obama praised Biden but did not endorse Harris. This sparked a flurry of online discussions with some people arguing that Michelle Obama might be a stronger candidate against Trump. One user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “I’ve been hearing this a lot. People in Chicago are not happy. Is it wise to be in the Windy City during the Democratic Convention?”
Another said, “Please focus on Michelle Obama. Kamala will be sacrificed. At the convention, it will be Michelle. Pay attention to her statements and behavior now because we might not have time later.” Former GOP candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, who had predicted Biden’s non-nomination last year, now suggests that Michelle Obama might be the one to beat Trump.
What’s Next for the Democrats?
Following Biden’s exit from the race, Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chair Jaime Harrison assured the public that the nomination process will be fair and transparent. The DNC convention will take place in Chicago on August 19, where nearly 4,000 delegates will choose the party’s candidate for the November elections.
Although Biden’s endorsement has made it easier for Harris to secure the nomination, it is not guaranteed until the delegates officially vote for her.
Harrison emphasized that the Democratic Party is committed to a fair nomination process and is focused on uniting behind a candidate who can defeat Trump in the November election. He said, “We will follow the established rules and procedures to ensure a fair and transparent process. Our delegates are ready to fulfill their responsibility to select a candidate for the American people.”
Harrison also praised President Biden for his achievements over the past four years and promised that the party will honor his legacy by electing a Democratic president for the next term. “Our values as Democrats remain the same — lowering costs, restoring freedom, protecting rights, and saving our democracy,” he said.
