The Ongoing Puzzle of Joe Biden's References to Kamala Harris as 'President'

In recent times, there has been a notable behavior among some in the political realm where Joe Biden often refers to Kamala Harris as the President. This peculiar phrase choice has raised eyebrows and many questions. This article aims to delve into the reasoning behind this practice, its implications, and whether it represents a broader political strategy.

Why Does Joe Biden Keep Calling Kamala Harris the 'President'?

One of the main reasons behind Biden's reference to Harris as 'President' is to ensure clarity and direct attribution. In any formal speech or context where Harris is involved, the direct mention of 'President' avoids any ambiguity. It is a strategic communication tool to ensure that anyone listening, even those who might not be fully engaged with the current political landscape, can immediately understand who Biden is referring to. This practice falls into the realm of effective speechwriting and public address.

Perception and Prestige

Another significant factor motivating this is the perception of prestige and authority. For any successor or acting leader, inheriting and potentially elevating the status of the office they are temporarily or permanently filling is a key strategy in political strategy. By referring to Harris as 'President,' Biden is subtly placing her in a position where the legacy of the office—their accomplishments, the authority, and the perceived prestige—is a part of her identity.

The Hierarchy of Power

This behavior is often rooted in a broader hierarchy of power and influence within the Democratic Party. There's a strong belief among some political analysts that this is a way for the party to groom Harris for a more significant future role. The constant exposure to the office of the presidency, through such direct references, is seen as beneficial to her transition into a more powerful position.

Implications and Criticisms

Critics, however, highlight potential issues with this practice. They argue that it creates a scenario where the actual President does very little, while the vice president is often referred to as such. This can be seen as undermining the leadership and authority of the current president (Biden) and raising questions about the effectiveness of the vice presidency as a role in times when the president is not performing their duties.

Defending the Practice

Those in favor of this practice might argue that it's a necessary strategy to maintain the continuity and stability of the political system. They might claim that such references help in elevating the successful and capable vice president, ensuring a smooth transition in the event of the president's incapacity or removal. The 25th Amendment, which deals with presidential succession and incapacity, is often cited in this context.

The Context of Political Games

The practice is often seen as part of a broader political game, especially with the rising influence of social media and political rhetoric. Figures like Donald Trump have been known to engage in similar practices, often to mislead or distract. Therefore, Biden's references to Harris can also be analyzed within this context of political maneuvering and perception management.

Conclusion

The question of why Joe Biden keeps calling Kamala Harris the 'President' is multifaceted, involving both strategic communication and broader political considerations. While some view this as a positive grooming strategy, others see it as a problematic undermining of the president's authority. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the implications of such practices will be closely monitored for their impact on the future of American politics.

Keywords: Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Presidential References, Political Grooming, 25th Amendment