Is Kamala Harris the Best Candidate for the Democratic Party in the 2020 Presidential Race?

The 2020 U.S. presidential election is shaping up to be a crucial race, with the Democratic Party facing the decision of who among the top contenders will best represent their party. One of the most prominent names is Kamala Harris. Is she the best candidate for the Democratic Party to run for President in 2020? Here, we will delve into the debate and analyze the likelihood of her winning the primaries and the general election if President Trump runs for a second term.

Arguments for and Against Kamala Harris

Support for Kamala Harris:
Proponents of Kamala Harris argue that she is a diverse and experienced candidate who could bring a new perspective to the Democratic Party. As the first South Asian American and first Black American woman to become a major party’s vice-presidential nominee, she offers a unique and compelling narrative. Additionally, her experience as the Attorney General of California and the U.S. Attorney General, as well as her involvement in various high-profile cases, establishes her as a strong political figure.

Arguments Against Kamala Harris:
Opponents, however, present several critical points. Some argue that she lacks the necessary experience and charisma to effectively lead the nation, citing her relatively young age and inexperience. Others suggest that she may not resonate with primary voters, who might be wary of a candidate they believe is not deeply rooted in the Democratic Party's values. Moreover, there are concerns about her electability in a potentially competitive election, especially facing a Republican incumbent with a proven track record.

Electability and Primary Success

Electability is a significant factor in any presidential campaign. Donald Trump's strong performance in recent years makes the 2020 election a challenging race. Kamala Harris's electability is a point of contention, with some doubting her ability to win over a diverse and increasingly polarized electorate. However, her support among Democrats and her progressive stance on key issues such as healthcare, immigration, and social justice could give her the edge in the primaries.

Regarding the primaries, Kamala Harris’s strategists would likely focus on highlighting her strengths, particularly her experience in handling high-stakes legal cases and her role as a federally elected official. Campaigns often exploit candidates' previous achievements to build momentum. Nevertheless, she will face formidable competition from other leading Democratic contenders, such as Bernie Sanders, Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren, and Cory Booker.

The Role of Age and Experience

Age and experience are crucial factors in presidential elections. In the past century, Democratic Party nominees have typically been younger, ranging from FDR at 50 to Obama at 47. This trend suggests that the party may not favor older candidates who could struggle to project youthful vigor and energy. Kamala Harris, at 55, falls within this range but could be seen as too young by some voters.

Joe Biden, with his long political career, offers a different kind of experience, but he is currently nearing 80 years old. There are concerns about his ability to serve for a full term, given his advancing age. Kamala Harris's age could be seen as a positive by those who believe she embodies the future and progress that the Democratic Party stands for. However, it could also be a liability among certain segments of the electorate concerned about her readiness to assume such a high-stakes role.

Concluding Thoughts

The decision on who to nominate as the Democratic candidate for the 2020 presidential race is far from straightforward. While Kamala Harris has several strengths, including her progressive policies and experience, she also faces significant challenges related to electability and public perception. Her supporters argue that she is the best candidate available, while critics see drawbacks that could jeopardize her chances.

Ultimately, the choice will depend on the overwhelming support of primary voters, the strategic choices made by party officials, and the political climate leading up to the election. Kamala Harris's candidacy will be a pivotal moment for the Democratic Party, shaping its future directions and outcomes for years to come.