OPINION:
As I see it, Vice President Kamala Harris has two choices. The first, if she believes she can beat Donald Trump, is to invoke the 25th Amendment prior to the Democratic National Convention. The second is to take a chance that President Biden can be elected, and then invoke the 25th Amendment early into his second term. Either way, she needs to invoke the 25th Amendment.
After Mr. Biden’s poor showing at the debate, many Democrats have raised concern over his ability to be president and have called on him to end his campaign. Many Americans question whether he can last another four years. Ms. Harris is first in line to take over when mental fitness hits a point of no confidence, which is a subjective determination.
If Ms. Harris calls for the 25th Amendment to be invoked, Mr. Biden must prove mental fitness. He would have to get in front of reporters for an extended period, without a teleprompter, and coherently answer questions. He may be able to do this, as some in his administration claim he has an abundance of energy and the debate was just an off night; however, if he could do this, he would have already done it.
Ms. Harris has an opportunity to seize power, and she will do it. The question is now just when.
CHARLES DIXON
Fairfax Station, Virginia
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