Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as a possible option to lead the Democratic Party if President Joe Biden chooses not to continue his campaign. This raises a significant question regarding what would happen to the $91 million in cash available to the current campaign, according to recent filings. The reelection effort, combined with allied Democratic organizations, has access to $240 million in cash.
If neither Biden nor Harris becomes candidates, the campaign team would have to return all the money or something similar. Donors who contributed before the August convention could have their contributions earmarked for the primary election or general election. If Harris were to win, she could use the funds for her own campaign or allocate them to a super PAC or the party itself. Transferring funds to a new candidate or entity has limitations. Other options could include supporting House and Senate candidates or donating to charities aligned with the candidates’ views.
However, there are some caveats when it comes to using campaign funds for a presidential campaign. Because the campaign account was registered with the Federal Election Commission in both candidates’ names, Harris could use those funds for her own presidential run if Biden were to drop out of the race.
Donors can only receive refunds if they are approved by the campaign team. In other words, it is up to Biden and Harris’s team whether they decide to approve refunds for donations made before August 2020.
In conclusion, while there may be some restrictions on how donors can use their contributions, Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as a viable candidate for president if Joe Biden decides not to continue his campaign.
The $91 million in cash available to the current campaign can be used by either candidate or returned if neither runs again. It is important for donors and supporters of both candidates understand their options carefully before making any decisions about how they want their contributions used in future elections.