### Political Crossroads: Decisions Loom for Biden and Harris as the Year Ends

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris find themselves at significant junctures as they navigate the aftermath of recent electoral outcomes and high-stakes political decisions.

President Biden is contemplating a major act of clemency for his son, Hunter Biden. Ankush Khardori argues that Biden is on solid ground to commute, rather than pardon, any potential prison sentence Hunter might face before leaving office. Such a move would signal a significant act of mercy.

Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris, fresh from a stay in Hawaii where she was regrouping with family and senior aides, is already making strategic plans. Harris has been in close contact with her allies, emphasizing her continued commitment to political life despite her loss to Donald Trump three weeks ago. She is now faced with determining her future role within the Democratic Party.

Harris's options are narrowing down to two primary political pathways. She could either position herself for a presidential run in 2028 or consider a gubernatorial bid in California in 2026. Both options come with their own sets of challenges and opportunities.

The prospect of Harris transitioning from Vice President to Governor of California is gaining traction. A recent UC Berkeley poll indicates nearly half of likely California voters would support her gubernatorial bid. Such a position would not only offer substantial governing power but also elevate her as a pioneering figure—the state’s first woman, African American, and South Asian governor. Despite being seen as a step down in prestige from the vice presidency, the governorship could ultimately serve as a robust platform for Harris to maintain her relevance and influence.

Alternatively, Harris remains a formidable "X factor" in the 2028 presidential race. While some Democrats are skeptical about another presidential run due to her recent loss, early polling shows her ahead of other potential Democratic candidates. Harris has proved her political capabilities and maintains significant infrastructural advantages, including an extensive donor network and strong public standing.

A third option for Harris, albeit less discussed, involves stepping away from active politics. She could enjoy a comfortable life filled with speaking engagements, corporate board appointments, and writing opportunities, effectively transitioning to a role as an elder stateswoman rather than a participant in the political arena. Yet, insiders believe Harris is far from concluding her political journey.

In other noteworthy events, Congress recently departed for the Thanksgiving holiday without resolving disaster aid funding despite strong statements from leadership. This delay affects small businesses in regions like Brevard, North Carolina, which are awaiting much-needed federal disaster loans.

President Biden is scheduled to pardon the National Thanksgiving Turkey in a traditional ceremony on the South Lawn. Later, he and First Lady Jill Biden will participate in a Friendsgiving event on Staten Island, New York. Vice President Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff will travel from Kalaoa, Hawaii, to San Francisco shortly.

As the year draws to a close, both Biden and Harris are at pivotal moments, making crucial decisions that will shape their political trajectories and potentially impact the broader landscape of American politics.