The Misconception Surrounding Kamala Harris's Potential Influence in a Biden Presidency

Recently, there has been a lot of discussion and misinformation surrounding the idea that Kamala Harris would be in charge if Joe Biden is elected President. This article seeks to clarify these misconceptions and provide a more accurate understanding of Harris's role and influence within the Biden administration.

The Claims and Their Basis

Some have argued that Harris would essentially be in charge if Biden is elected. The claims are based on three key points:

She is already the Vice President. She is a woman of color, which would make her a historic figure. Some believe enough voters might vote against Trump but desire a non-Trump figure as President.

However, these claims lack factual support and are often fueled by political rhetoric designed to provoke and remain in the public eye. The focus on these speculations ignores key realities about Harris's role and her actual performance in office.

Harris's Political Reputation and Criticisms

There is a perception that Kamala Harris has a poor reputation. Critics often point to her looks, political connections, and her ascent through the political ranks as signs of incompetence. An example cited is the Willy Brown scandal, suggesting that her victory was more due to backing from her party rather than her own abilities.

Additionally, Harris is often seen as a pawn rather than a powerful decision-maker. Her position as Vice President is largely due to the Democratic party's strategic choices rather than her own merits. This is in contrast to figures like Stacey Abrams and Susan Rice, who have played more autonomous roles.

Biden's Competence and Age

Despite some of the speculations, Joe Biden's potential role and influence cannot be underestimated. While he is 78 years old, his decades of political experience and leadership make him a valuable asset. However, his age and mental acuity should not be ignored; while there is no evidence of cognitive decline, he may naturally approach his role with a lighter touch due to his advancing years.

It's crucial to recognize that Biden's team, including key cabinet members, will play significant roles in the administration. Figures like Janet Yellen, who appears to have more autonomy compared to previous treasury secretaries, indicate a shift in power dynamics.

Who Really Runs the Biden Administration?

Given the political landscape and the choices made during the campaign, it is highly unlikely that Kamala Harris would be running the Biden administration. As stated by Michelle Obama, she would not run if given the chance. The reality is that the administration's direction and policies are being shaped by a combination of cabinet officials, Democratic donors, and likely a more balanced approach than might be associated with a single individual.

This combination of influences suggests that the Biden administration will be led by a collective team rather than an individual, much like previous administrations.

Conclusion

While Kamala Harris's presence as Vice President and the narrative surrounding her potential influence are significant, they do not translate into her being the primary decision-maker. The Biden administration will likely be guided by a combination of experienced cabinet members and key donors, reflecting a broader coalition of power rather than a single individual.

It's important for voters and the public to base their understanding and decisions on fact rather than speculation. The role of the Vice President, while crucial, is not equivalent to being in charge of the entire administration.