Vice President Kamala Harris recently made an appearance on ‘The View’, in which she was put to test with a question on whether she would have done anything differently from President Joe Biden in the past four years. Failing to draw any constructive criticism, she proudly stated ‘There is not a thing that comes to mind’ and claimed to have significantly contributed to most of the impactful decisions. This not only falls flat on those expecting some introspective critique, but also ties Harris directly to the many faulty policies enforced under the Biden administration, which have been heavily criticized by a wide segment of our society.
Harris also touched on the notion that she would aspire to have a Republican in her cabinet, whilst subtly undermining the virtues of pride holding importance in decision-making. However, her lack of any further explanation in this direction only brings to light her unnecessary attempt at seeming inclusive and different, when in reality she aligns herself with Biden’s administration.
The Vice President’s blatant endorsement of all decisions made over the last years, irrespective of their effects, became a topic of discussion among Republicans soon after. It corroborated the narrative that the Trump campaign has constantly been echoing, that Kamala Harris is indeed, a staunch supporter of Biden’s flawed policies.
But, it isn’t just the other side of the aisle that had issues with Harris’s stance, discomfort was sensed within her own party as well. Evan Roth Smith, a lead pollster at Blueprint Strategies, pointed out that their research suggests people want Harris to cut ties with Biden’s decisions rather than agreeing to all of them.
Smith’s data indicates that voters respond more positively when Harris presents herself as a unique entity, diverging significantly on matters such as healthcare, and the reduction of gas and grocery prices. This beckons a question: isn’t it time for Harris to start thinking independently, unchain herself from the shackle of Biden’s influence, and identify where they differ clearly?
Interestingly, The New York Times released national polls positioning Harris as the ‘change’ candidate. However, her distinct alignment with Biden’s policies and lack of individuality makes one wonder, what change is she really capable of bringing about?
This predicament Harris finds herself in paints a clear picture of the struggle that she and her campaign have faced in trying to differentiate her from Biden. Ironically, the very role she seems to embrace so completely under the Biden administration seems to be the one from which she is finding it hardest to distance herself.
Harris has been known to propose policies that somewhat differ from Biden’s propositions such as a slightly reduced raise to the capital gains tax and promise of new policies like a $6,000 child tax credit. The novelty of these ideas is tainted however, as she fails to frame these as genuine divergences from the Biden administration, demonstrating a lack of independence in her approach.
Harris has subtly suggested contrasts, hinting at a larger focus on cost-of-living issues and less emphasis on jobs, compared to Biden. Yet these appear to be implicit cues, rather than explicit assertions of disagreement with Biden’s methods.
Biden only complicates this convoluted relationship by declaring that he and Harris are, in essence, part of a harmonious union, singing from the same song sheet. According to him, she has been a primary actor in all of their shared activities. This statement further tangles the spaghetti of mixed messaging, and makes it even harder for Harris to develop a distinct brand or set of proposals.
This questionable stance assumed by Harris appears to be a boon for Trump’s campaign. However, the real challenge for his team lies in utilizing this gift effectively to underline the inherent issues plaguing the Biden-Harris team.
Despite numerous attempts to link Harris closely with Biden, he has experienced difficulties in creating a solid impression of her. Yet, it’s bewildering as to why Harris hasn’t made a clear stand to distinguish herself from Biden, despite the ongoing assaults on her image and efforts to establish her as a ‘change’ candidate.
One cannot help but be perplexed by Harris’s inability to answer this crucial question differently. Her campaign – positioned on a ‘change’ platform – should have anticipated this. Yet, she still sides with every decision, whether popularly endorsed or not, without due scrutiny.
It’s a missed opportunity as there were numerous other ways she could have presented her stance without explicitly disagreeing with Biden. This could have suitably avoided the discomforting impression that contentment with the status quo transcends constructive self-evaluation and potential growth.
It’s evident that a critical examination of Biden’s administration’s decisions is not something Harris is willing to undertake. Her inability to take a stand that is distinct or critical of Biden’s administration leaves the public to question the real extent of her desire or ability to bring about ‘change’ she speaks of often.
In conclusion, Harris seems to have missed a golden chance to express her individual opinions. Her actions don’t align with her promises of bringing about a ‘change.’ It’s high time she moves away from walking Biden’s path and starts embarking on her own journey, one that’s characterized by unique decisions and propositions.