Kamala Harris Reveals Contingency Plan for Biden’s Presidency in New Memoir
In a striking revelation from her recently published memoir, “107 Days,” Vice President Kamala Harris discusses a contingency plan crafted by her inner circle, known as the “Red File.” This plan was designed to address potential crises surrounding President Joe Biden, particularly given his advanced age. The memoir sheds light on the intricate dynamics of the Biden administration and the preparations made for an uncertain political future.
The Origins of the “Red File”
Harris recounts that the groundwork for the “Red File” was laid by her brother-in-law, Tony West, who recognized the need for a strategic plan well before Biden’s eventual decision to suspend his re-election campaign. “A year earlier, he had started what he called the ‘Red File,'” Harris writes. The urgency of this initiative stemmed from the reality of having a president in his eighties, prompting West to assert that it would be “malpractice” not to prepare for unforeseen circumstances.
The “Red File” included a list of critical actions to be taken in the event of a crisis, such as the first dozen calls to world leaders and a framework for Harris’s initial public statement. As the political landscape shifted and pressure mounted for Biden to withdraw from the race, the plan evolved, reflecting the growing concerns surrounding his candidacy.
A Plan for Crisis Management
Harris emphasizes the importance of having a structured response in the face of potential trauma. West advised her that it would be “prudent to have a plan for the first twenty-four to forty-eight hours,” ensuring that decisions could be made swiftly and effectively during a crisis. Despite her reluctance to engage in discussions about such dire scenarios, Harris ultimately entrusted West with the responsibility of coordinating these preparations.
During a family weekend, West convened a meeting with four key members of Harris’s team to discuss the implications of a potential Biden withdrawal. The atmosphere was tense, as they contemplated the ramifications of such a significant political shift. Brian Fallon, Harris’s communications chief, expressed skepticism about the likelihood of Biden stepping down, citing his scheduled meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a sign of his commitment to the presidency.
The Moment of Transition
The political landscape shifted dramatically on July 21, 2024, when news broke that Biden would indeed be suspending his campaign. Harris’s team was caught off guard, unaware that she would soon be the one to accept the Democratic nomination at the upcoming convention. The moment was surreal; after receiving the call from Biden, Harris immediately turned to West for guidance.
West’s reaction was candid: “If this isn’t handled right, he will crap all over his legacy.” This statement underscored the gravity of the situation and the need for a well-orchestrated response. Harris expressed her gratitude to Biden for his endorsement, assuring him, “I will do you proud.” Biden’s response, “You’re gonna do great, kid,” marked a pivotal moment in Harris’s political journey.
The Launch of Harris’s Campaign
Just twenty-two minutes after Biden’s announcement on social media, he publicly endorsed Harris as the Democratic candidate for president. This swift transition allowed Harris to launch her campaign with remarkable speed, a feat made possible by the groundwork laid in the “Red File.” West, who had been instrumental in the planning, became a key advisor in Harris’s campaign, helping to navigate critical decisions such as selecting a running mate and preparing for debates.
West’s background is noteworthy; he previously served as a senior official in the Obama administration and is currently the chief legal officer at Uber. His extensive experience in political strategy and campaign management has made him an invaluable asset to Harris.
Reflections on Leadership and Regret
In her memoir, Harris candidly reflects on her role during this tumultuous period, admitting that she has regrets about her handling of the situation. She describes the challenges of navigating the complexities of a presidential campaign while grappling with the implications of Biden’s age and health. The memoir serves as both a personal account and a broader commentary on the state of American politics, particularly as it relates to leadership transitions.
Harris’s insights into the “Red File” and the preparations made by her team highlight the often-overlooked aspects of political strategy. The meticulous planning underscores the importance of being prepared for unexpected developments, especially in an era where political landscapes can shift rapidly.
Conclusion
Kamala Harris’s memoir, “107 Days,” offers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the Biden administration and the contingency plans that were put in place to address potential crises. The “Red File” serves as a testament to the foresight and strategic thinking of Harris’s team, reflecting the complexities of leadership in a rapidly changing political environment. As the nation looks ahead to the future, Harris’s experiences and reflections may provide valuable lessons for both current and aspiring leaders.
