Joe Biden's potential replacement — here are the three top picks

In the event that President Biden opts not to seek re-election, given his insipid performance in the first presidential debate with Donald Trump, the Democratic Party stands at a crucial crossroads, poised to select its next standard-bearer for the presidential race.

Among the array of potential contenders, several figures have emerged with compelling narratives, each bringing a distinct blend of experience, vision, and challenges to the forefront.

Here are the top 3 candidates who might replace him to the top Democratic ticket:

Gavin Newsom

Gavin Newsom, at 56, commands attention as the Governor of California, a state synonymous with progressive leadership.

Newsom is the choice of many and he has cultivated a national profile through bold policy initiatives and high-stakes debates, such as his memorable clash with Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis.

His gubernatorial tenure has been characterised by robust actions on issues ranging from reproductive rights and homelessness to environmental sustainability and healthcare access for undocumented immigrants.

Yet, amidst these triumphs, Newsom has weathered significant fiscal pressures and recurrent recall attempts, underscoring both his resilience and the complexities of leadership in America's largest state.

Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris, 59, the current Vice President, stands as a figure deeply linked to the Biden administration’s agenda. Her rise to the vice presidency marked a historic milestone, yet Harris has faced challenges in defining a distinct role while navigating fluctuating public opinion.

As a potential successor to Biden, she holds the mantle of being next in line for the presidency.

Still, she must navigate the intricate dynamics of national politics and the formidable challenge of energising a diverse electorate.

Gretchen Whitmer

Gretchen Whitmer, 52, Governor of Michigan, represents a rising star within the Democratic ranks.

Her leadership has been instrumental in flipping Michigan's legislative chambers blue, buoyed by a progressive platform encompassing gun safety reforms, climate action initiatives, and social justice advancements.

Whitmer’s appeal lies not only in her state-level successes but also in her potential to unite factions within the party under a banner of inclusive governance and forward-thinking policies.

As the Democratic Party contemplates its future post-Biden if the president opts out of the race, Democratic leadership embodies the complexities inherent in presidential politics.

The focus now shifts to the lead-up to the Democratic Convention in Chicago this August, where the prospect of an open convention looms large, in which multiple contenders could vie for the nomination on the spot.

All eyes are on developments leading to this pivotal event, with questions lingering about whether President Biden will indeed step aside and what unfolds in the aftermath.