The Controversial Path to Presidency: Kamala Harris and the Unforeseen Death of Joe Biden
If Joe Biden were to pass away today, November 4, 2024, Kamala Harris would immediately succeed him as the President of the United States. This process is clearly detailed in the Constitution and is designed to ensure a seamless transition of power.
Constitutional Directive
By law, as the Constitution clearly states, the sitting Vice President would become the President upon the death of the sitting President. This is a well-established process that does not involve 'taking over' in the traditional sense, but rather a legal transfer of responsibility.
Immediate Inauguration
Given that today is October 5th, Kamala Harris would be immediately sworn in as the President to conclude Biden's term, which ends in January 2025. However, she would need to be officially administered the Oath of Office to make this transition official.
Running for the Next Term
There is a common misconception that Kamala Harris's brief term as President would not qualify her for another presidential run. This is not accurate. The Constitution does not specify the length of a term for a Vice President to become President, so Harris would indeed be eligible to run for the 2028 election. Just as President Lyndon B. Johnson succeeded John F. Kennedy, Harris could run for re-election after serving part of Biden's term.
Political Implications
The political implications of such a scenario are significant. If Biden were to pass away suddenly, Harris would indeed lead the country until January 2025 and could then pursue a full presidential term. However, the exact details of her leadership and political influence would depend on the circumstances and public perception.
Public Criticism and Doubts
Not everyone is convinced of Harris's capability to handle such a high-stakes position. Some critics argue that she would be unable to manage the responsibilities of the presidency effectively, likening her to 'a bag of half-drowned puppies.' Others believe that the real power would lie with those controlling the political apparatus.
Future of American Politics
The question of who will lead the country once Trump's term ends is also a contentious issue. Some believe that Trump is the last vestige of a 'democratic experiment,' and others wonder what happens when he leaves or completes his term. In the absence of a truly formidable opposition, there is a concern that the system could be manipulated or coopted by powerful interests.
Despite these challenges, Kamala Harris's potential rise to the presidency highlights the complex and sometimes unpredictable nature of American politics, underlining the importance of understanding the legal and constitutional framework that governs such transitions.