Kamala Harris, the Democratic presumptive nominee, is reportedly preparing to revamp the national security team if she wins the presidency, which could result in the removal of key Biden administration appointees. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin may be excluded from the cabinet, according to current and former officials speaking with the Wall Street Journal.
This development comes amid Blinken’s endorsement of Harris, praising her as a “leading voice for American foreign policy” within the Biden administration.
Harris’ national security adviser, Philip Gordon, is expected to play a significant role in her potential administration. Gordon previously served as a top State Department official for Europe under President Barack Obama and as a senior White House official focusing on Middle East issues.
As President Biden recovers from a Covid infection, Harris has taken on presidential responsibilities, including preparing for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington D.C. While she will meet with Netanyahu at the White House, she will miss his address to Congress on Wednesday.
Harris has been more outspoken on Palestinian issues compared to Biden, reflecting potential differences in her approach to global affairs. However, if elected, she is expected to uphold many of Biden’s foreign policy objectives, including strong support for Ukraine and efforts to enhance alliances in Asia and the Pacific.
