SYRACUSE, N.Y. – After President Joe Biden exited the Presidential race and threw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic frontrunner, the focus and speculation have now turned to who might fill the rumored vacant spot beside Harris. With Biden’s delegates now shifting their allegiance to Harris, there has been a surge in small-dollar donations for her campaign, and some state delegates have begun to follow suit.

Many believe Harris is the most probable candidate for the role. “I think she is the most likely, almost inevitable candidate,” stated Margaret Susan Thompson, a history professor at Syracuse University. The Democratic Party recently marked its most successful fundraising day of the year, collecting nearly $50 million in seven hours, signaling a surge in enthusiasm. Thompson pointed out that the fervor appears to be backing Harris’s campaign, emphasizing the need for a shortlist to initiate the vetting process both politically and legally. Despite the buzz surrounding Harris, Thompson advised caution when considering the ongoing speculation.

In addition to shortlists, observers are curious to see if Harris will differentiate herself from her former running mate and shape the campaign as her own rather than merely maintaining the status quo. Thompson emphasized the importance for Harris to project herself as a viable presidential candidate in her own right rather than as a placeholder.

While the public eagerly anticipates Harris’s potential nomination, the Democratic National Convention is set to take place on August 19, where the party’s official nominee will be announced.