At the Essence Festival of Culture, Vice President Kamala Harris and a group of Black Democrats emphasized the critical importance of the upcoming election, stressing the dangers of a potential Trump return to the presidency. Despite President Joe Biden’s recent debate struggles and calls for him to step down, Harris did not address these issues directly during her 20-minute speech. Instead, she highlighted the stakes of the election and criticized Trump’s aspirations for power and his Supreme Court influence.
Harris’s presence at this major celebration of Black culture highlights the challenges the White House faces in addressing concerns about Biden’s capacity for another term. The situation is particularly sensitive for Harris, the first Black and South Asian woman to be vice president, and for Black Democrats who played a crucial role in the 2020 election victory.
While Harris has shown unwavering support for Biden, her potential candidacy looms if he steps aside. Black leaders at the festival, however, expressed a strong preference for Harris over other potential candidates like California’s Gavin Newsom or Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer.
Glynda Carr, leader of Higher Heights, a political action committee for Black women, emphasized that the vice president should naturally step up if needed, questioning the rationale for considering less experienced white candidates. Antjuan Seawright, a consultant close to Biden ally Jim Clyburn, was more direct, stating that overlooking Harris would be disastrous for the party and could divide it.
Seawright also noted that the pressure on Biden to withdraw is mainly from white Democrats or other minorities, not Black Democrats, who recognize Biden’s record and trust him. He warned that a contested convention could hurt the party’s broader goals, including increasing Black representation in leadership roles.
Congresswoman Maxine Waters dismissed concerns about Biden’s age, urging support for his re-election and highlighting the stark contrast between Biden and Trump. Similarly, Rep. Joyce Beatty celebrated Harris’s achievements and influence, reinforcing her commitment to the Biden-Harris ticket.
Festival attendees had mixed views on Biden’s candidacy, but they agreed on key points: Biden should decide his own path, Harris should be the next in line if he steps down, and defeating Trump remains paramount.
Erica Peterson from New Orleans expressed unwavering support for Biden, while New York nurse Star Robert voiced doubts about Harris’s readiness and the country’s willingness to elect another Black president or a female president. Harris, addressing such skepticism, encouraged ambition and resilience, particularly for women of color in leadership roles.
In summary, the Essence Festival showcased the strong backing for Biden and Harris among Black Democrats, highlighting their critical role in the upcoming election and the broader political landscape.
