After three tumultuous years, numerous reboots, and an array of bewildering statements, Americans in 2024 find themselves contemplating whether Vice President Kamala Harris merits another four years—potentially in a more elevated role than vice president.

The prospect of 81-year-old President Joe Biden, the oldest individual to assume the presidency, not completing a second term if re-elected introduces the possibility of Kamala Harris becoming the next president without having run a successful independent presidential campaign.

Despite participating in the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, Harris withdrew from the race before the Iowa caucuses, denying voters the opportunity to pass judgment on her readiness for the highest office. Biden’s decision to revive her political career, despite her previous criticisms of him as a racist during the primary, was influenced by advisors and even former President Barack Obama.

Biden’s initial inclination was towards Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, but the racial tensions exacerbated by the aftermath of George Floyd’s death necessitated a black vice-presidential candidate. The selection of Harris, despite familial reservations and her past attacks on Biden, was deemed crucial for Democratic electoral success.

However, Harris found herself marginalized in the aftermath of the inauguration, with Biden taking the forefront in key political matters. Despite assurances of being a “true partner,” Harris appeared isolated and protective of her political future. This was evident in her approach to the immigration and border crisis, where she focused solely on addressing the “root causes.”

Harris faced public scrutiny for her enigmatic “word salads,” leading to plummeting approval ratings and a high staff turnover in her office. The strained relationship between the first and second families became apparent, with First Lady Jill Biden not extending dinner invitations to Harris and her Second Gentleman. Washington insiders remained largely indifferent or critical of Harris, reflecting a broader sentiment of disappointment.

Investigations into Harris’s career revealed her association with Willie Brown, a significant political mentor and romantic partner. Despite her rise through the political ranks, Harris struggled to impress Democratic voters, even in her home state of California. While making history as the first Black and female vice president, Harris faced limited scrutiny from the press, a common phenomenon for groundbreaking Democrats. Criticism, when voiced, was often dismissed as either racist or sexist.