Democratic strategist David Axelrod believes that former President Trump remains a “pretty substantial favorite” in the upcoming November elections, even as excitement grows among Democrats about Vice President Harris’s campaign.

“I still consider him a pretty substantial favorite in this race just because of the electoral challenges,” Axelrod said on Tuesday’s episode of his podcast, “Hacks on Tap.”

Support for Harris
The podcast hosts praised President Biden’s decision to suspend his campaign. Biden announced on Sunday that he would step aside and endorse Harris, who is on track to become the Democratic Party’s candidate.

Following the announcement, Axelrod said Biden’s decision was “sad” but “necessary.” He had been one of the most prominent Democratic voices calling for Biden to suspend his campaign.

Harris expressed her eagerness to win the nomination, while Democrats like Axelrod fear that a “coronation” might not be well received. Nonetheless, Harris has secured enough delegates to win the Democratic nomination, received endorsements from key Democratic lawmakers, and seen a surge in online support and donations.

Running Mate
With all eyes on the Vice President, questions have arisen about whom she would choose as a running mate. Axelrod mentioned two very serious candidates: Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly.

Polls
Harris leads Trump by 2 points in one of the first polls conducted after Biden exited the race. The poll found that Harris has 44 percent support compared to Trump’s 42 percent.

Trump’s campaign pollster predicted that Harris would see a boost in the polls following the excitement around the announcement, but that this would eventually level off.