President Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as he steps out of the presidential race, placing her in prime position for the Democratic nomination. This development comes just weeks before the Democratic National Convention on August 19, increasing the scrutiny on Harris from voters, delegates, and members of the party who must determine if she is the strongest opponent to challenge former President Trump.

While Harris' record and battle with a negative public image and low favorability ratings raise concerns among some advisors, Democratic strategist Basil Smikle believes that Harris is the clear choice to succeed Biden. Smikle asserts that the party's infrastructure, including donors, would support her candidacy. He counters arguments that other Democrats may be better suited for the nomination, emphasizing that it is not an opportunity for white men to assert themselves over a Black woman who is the sitting vice president.

Harris had previously withdrawn from the 2020 Democratic nomination race after lagging behind in the polls. However, she was always a top contender for Biden's vice presidential pick. Biden highlighted Harris' understanding of the battle for the soul of the nation and her ability to unite and work towards a better America when announcing her as his VP. He also mentioned his late son Beau Biden's great respect for her when they served as attorneys general.

Harris has faced challenges in navigating her role in the administration while maintaining her public image, as indicated by declining favorability ratings. A June 2023 NBC News poll revealed that 49% of registered voters held a negative view of Harris, compared to 32% with a positive view. This represents the lowest net-negative score for a vice president in the history of the poll. Critics claim she was underutilized early in the administration, missing opportunities to address the country's changing demographics and demands.

Joel Goldstein, a historian and expert on the vice presidency, explains that Harris faced limitations in her public role due to the COVID-19 pandemic and her role presiding over a divided Senate. Despite these challenges, she took on presidential-level assignments, such as leading aspects of the administration's immigration response and addressing the root causes of migration from Central American countries.

However, Harris faced backlash and conservative criticism for her handling of the border crisis and was labeled a failed "border czar." As election season heated up, Harris increased her travel engagements and became a prominent voice on key campaign issues, including abortion rights, prescription drug costs, African American entrepreneurship, and gun reform.

Looking ahead, Harris will need to focus on accumulating a majority of delegates at the Democratic National Convention, as she will not automatically inherit Biden's delegates. The Biden-Harris campaign war chest, which holds over $91 million as of June, could provide a financial advantage for her campaign compared to other potential candidates.

As the nomination process progresses, Harris's ability to overcome criticisms and build support will ultimately determine if she becomes the Democratic Party's candidate to challenge former President Trump in the next election.