The question of who is truly steering the ship of the United States is more pertinent than ever. Amid mounting concerns about President Joe Biden’s cognitive abilities and frequent absences, and Vice President Kamala Harris’s focus on her own political future, many Americans are left wondering: who is actually running the country?
Joe Biden, as the 46th President of the United States, is constitutionally the nation’s top executive. However, concerns about his cognitive health have been a recurring theme in political discourse. His frequent vacations and limited public appearances add to the perception that he may not be fully engaged in the day-to-day management of the country.
Despite these concerns, it is important to recognize that the President’s role involves delegation. Modern presidencies rely on a vast team of advisors, cabinet members, and senior officials who carry out the administration’s policies. While Biden may not be at the forefront of every decision, his administration still sets the agenda and directs the overall strategy.
Vice President Kamala Harris, historically the first female and person of color to hold the office, has often been seen as Biden’s successor in waiting. However, Harris’s current focus on campaigning for her potential future presidential run has raised questions about her involvement in the administration’s daily operations. While the vice president traditionally has a more supportive role, her visible absence from key decision-making processes has fueled speculation that she may not be fully engaged in running the country either.
In the absence of strong public leadership from Biden and Harris, much of the work of governing falls on the vast federal bureaucracy. Often referred to as the “administrative state,” this network of career officials, agency heads, and political appointees ensures that government functions continue regardless of the visibility or activity of the President or Vice President. These individuals carry out policies, manage crises, and oversee the implementation of laws across a range of issues from national security to healthcare.
Beyond the bureaucratic machinery, several key figures in Biden’s administration play critical roles in decision-making. Chief of Staff Jeff Zients, for instance, is responsible for coordinating the White House’s operations and policy implementation. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken are pivotal in shaping U.S. foreign policy, while Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell influence economic policy.
These officials, along with other cabinet members, have significant influence over the administration’s direction. They are responsible for advising the President and ensuring that his vision is carried out across the executive branch.
Another aspect of governance that should not be overlooked is the role of Congress. With Democrats holding the Senate and Republicans controlling the House, legislative priorities are often shaped by these competing political forces. While the executive branch implements policy, it is Congress that passes the laws and controls the purse strings. This balance of power means that governance is not solely in the hands of the President or Vice President but is a shared responsibility across government.
Public concern over who is running the country is not unfounded. Leadership visibility is a critical component of confidence in governance. When the President and Vice President appear disengaged, it creates uncertainty. However, it’s essential to remember that the U.S. government is designed with checks and balances to ensure continuity and stability, even when the top figures seem less involved.
The larger question may not be who is running the country, but how effectively the current administration is addressing the challenges facing the nation. From economic concerns to global tensions, the effectiveness of governance ultimately depends on the collective efforts of the entire federal system, not just the individuals at its helm.
The question of who is running the country today is complex. While President Biden remains the official leader, and Vice President Harris continues her duties, the day-to-day operations of government involve a vast network of officials and agencies. The perception that Biden and Harris are not fully engaged may raise valid concerns, but it is the strength of the federal system that ensures the continuity of governance. Ultimately, the effectiveness of this system will be judged by the outcomes it delivers for the American people.
