In a stunning turn of events, Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as the frontrunner for the Democratic nomination in the 2024 US presidential election. This development comes on the heels of President Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the race, citing the need to pass the torch to a new generation. Harris, who is the first female, Black, and South Asian vice president in US history, now stands poised to potentially make history once again as the nation's first woman president.
Harris's rapid ascension to the top of the Democratic ticket has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Analysts and experts are now scrambling to assess what a Harris presidency might mean for both domestic and foreign policy. Of particular interest is how her administration would approach relations with Asia, a region of growing strategic importance.
Many experts believe that a Harris administration would largely maintain continuity with Biden's foreign policy approach, especially towards Asia. Ngoei Wen-Qing, Associate Professor of History from Singapore Management University, suggests that Harris will likely emphasize her connection to the region, noting, I think she will speak about being the first possible president of South Asian descent, and that she will understand what the aspirations and emerging hopes of the region are.
During her time as vice president, Harris has already made several high-profile visits to Asia, including trips to Singapore and Vietnam. These visits have helped familiarize regional leaders with her approach and priorities. Sean King, senior vice president at New York consultancy firm Park Strategies, points out that Harris has been very outspoken on Asian human rights issues, citing her co-sponsorship of the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act and her legislative efforts regarding Myanmar.
In terms of economic relations, the US has significant investments in Southeast Asia, surpassing its combined investments in China, Japan, South Korea, and India. This economic reality is likely to influence Harris's approach to the region, with a continued focus on strengthening economic ties and partnerships.
However, Harris's potential presidency is not without its challenges, particularly when it comes to relations with China. Some analysts believe that Beijing may view Harris as a more formidable opponent than Biden. Her past statements criticizing China's behavior in the Taiwan Strait and her diplomatic engagement with Taiwanese officials have not gone unnoticed. This perception could lead to a more tense relationship between the US and China if Harris were to assume the presidency.
As the campaign season heats up, all eyes will be on Harris to see how she articulates her vision for America's role in Asia and the broader world. While she is expected to maintain many of the core tenets of Biden's foreign policy, her unique background and perspective may bring new nuances to US diplomacy. The coming months will be crucial as Harris seeks to convince both domestic voters and international partners of her readiness to lead the world's most powerful nation.
