Much has changed in the U.S. politics over the last one month. Biden’s performance in the presidential debate a month ago played into the Republican narrative that he is too old for the office, allowing Trump to get away with his untruths and exaggerations.

A fortnight later, President Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt. Trump picked up the first-time Senator JD Vance as his running mate – his policy, style, demeanors are much like him.

One week ago, President Biden announced he is leaving the presidential race and endorsed Kamala Harris. Biden says he ended his re-election campaign to unite his party and the country, adding it is time to pass the torch to a new generation.

Within a week, Kamala seems to be closing in on Trump. She has energized the democrats – particularly the Obama coalition of women, black and young. She has rallied her staff and supporters, raised record funds, won the commitment of majority of delegates and the endorsement from Obamas and Clintons.

Harris will have the tough job of defending the Biden administration’s record on illegal immigration, inflation, high gas prices at home, two wars abroad and the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Though Trump narrowly leads the opinion polls, the presidential race still hangs in balance. It would perhaps be decided in the swing states – Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and perhaps Arizona, North Carolina, and Georgia.

The outpouring for enthusiasm for Harris has surprised the Democrats, the Republicans, and the analysts alike. The shift in democratic party happened after the Republic National Convention where they directed all their energies at Biden, including his fitness for office owing to his age. They will have to adjust their narrative; now Trump is the “old man” in the race.

A democratic convention will give Harris the opportunity to introduce herself to the nation and explain her policies. Her position on major issues will be watched closely, as will her VP pick.
We still have more than 100 days to go for the election. 100 days is a very long time in politics.

The U.S. remains a deeply polarized nation. The unfolding political events in the U.S. will be watched closely, not only in the U.S., but across the globe.

In the next article, we will analyze the presidential journey of Joe Biden, what to expect in the remaining six months of his presidency and the view from Asia-Pacific.

Disclaimer: The article has reference to open sources including CNN, BBC, and The Economic Times. Image Source: BBC