Democrat Adam Schiff says Kamala Harris would be a 'phenomenal president' as he urges Joe Biden to rethink candidacy

WASHINGTON, DC: Rep Adam Schiff (D-CA) expressed his strong support for Vice President Kamala Harris to replace President Joe Biden on the 2024 Democratic ticket during an NBC News interview. 

When 'Meet the Press' host Kristen Welker asked Schiff about Harris' prospects against former President Donald Trump, he confidently asserted that she would make a "phenomenal president."

Adam Schiff believes Kamala Harris can 'win overwhelmingly' against Donald Trump

Schiff said, "I think the Vice President would be a phenomenal president. I think she has experienced the judgment, the leadership ability to be an extraordinary president," highlighting the depth of Harris' capabilities.

Regarding her chances in a potential presidential race, the California lawmaker was optimistic. When Welker asked, "Could she win overwhelmingly, Congressman?" Schiff swiftly replied, "I think she very well could win overwhelmingly." 

However, Schiff also stressed the importance of focusing on the current president's decision about his own candidacy, saying, "Before we get into a decision about who else it should be, the President needs to make a decision whether it's him."

He added, "I don't want to get into a debate. I don't think it's good for the party to get into a debate over, okay, if not him, then whom, but rather let's focus on the fundamental decision."

When asked if Biden should pass the torch to Harris, Schiff responded, "I think Biden should take the time talk to people outside of his immediate circle, talk to people he respects, people with objectivity, people with distance, and make the right decision for the country. And I’m confident Joe Biden has always made the fundamental distinguishing distinction between him and Donald Trump."

Adam Schiff says President Joe Biden's age will make the 2024 election challenging for him

Schiff's remarks come amid broader discussions within the Democratic Party about the future of President Biden's reelection bid, particularly in light of concerns raised about his age and cognitive fitness. 

Acknowledging Biden's accomplishments, the California Democrat highlighted the challenges posed by the incumbent's age in the context of a competitive presidential race.

Schiff emphasized, "Ultimately, this is a decision President Biden will have to make and President Biden alone." 

He noted, "But I would say this, he has been an extraordinary president. He has created millions and millions of jobs. He has expanded and strengthened our NATO alliances. He has brought back manufacturing in this country. He has brought about the most aggressive attack on climate change. He has done more in one term than most presidents ever do no matter how many terms they get."