During the most recent convention of the National Association of Black Journalists, an intriguing question regarding Kamala Harris was posed to Donald Trump. The inquiry pertained to whether or not Harris was a prime Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) candidate. While such a question might have been intended to catch him off guard, it prompts a deeper assessment of Harris’s political journey so far.
Upon selecting his Vice President, Joe Biden made it public that his key deciding factor was choosing a ‘woman of color.’ This was a significant aspect of his decision-making, set against the backdrop of a conversation on diversity and representation in American politics.
Before Biden’s announcement, during a Democratic presidential debate, Harris had critiqued Biden, suggesting a history of racial bias. Such allegations are grave in the realm of politics, potentially detracting from any politician’s goodwill. Nevertheless, Harris was the selected choice for Biden’s Vice Presidency.
One might speculate whether Harris was selected by Biden personally, or whether political strategists within the Democratic party played a significant role. There is a possibility that these influencers were keen on a progressive candidate from California to meet the evolving expectations of a increasingly conscious Democratic base.
In the 2020 electoral battle, Harris was exceptionally vocal about ‘defunding the police,’ a polarizing point that highlighted her progressive stance. However, she also took on pressing responsibilities upon her appointment as Vice President.
One of the key responsibilities Harris tackled as Vice President was managing the migrant crisis at the southern border, a significant issue that was a focal point during the Biden administration’s early tenure. This increased her visibility and significance within the administration.
However, her public speeches have raised eyebrows among critics, with some labeling them as overly complex yet lacking substance. These observations have brought her intellectual credibility under question.
Rumors floated in political circles that the Republicans, in preparation for the 2024 race, were considering Harris to be their main competitor. However, the Democrats were swift in rejecting such assertions.
In a turn of events post a June debate that did not fare well for Biden, there was a precipitous drop in his campaign’s momentum. This led to a shift in dynamics within the Democratic party that saw Biden pushed to the sidelines.
With Biden out of the limelight, Harris was thrust into the spotlight. Where there was once an older white man leading the charge, the mantle was passed to a woman of color, whose clarity on a variety of issues was frequently under scrutiny.
From this narrative of political chess, it becomes evident how diverse factors effect candidate selection and the shifts in power dynamics that can occur in politics. Whether these factors point to Harris as a DEI candidate can be subjective, based on one’s interpretation.
Harris’s narrative illustrates her journey from voicing concerns about racial bias at a presidential debate, to becoming an appointed Vice President, and potential Presidential candidate. The discourse around her, regardless of its positive or negative nature, undeniably contributes to shaping the political landscape.
Circling back to the seemingly ‘gotcha’ question posed to Trump at the National Association of Black Journalists convention, we see that it stokes a crucial dialogue about political identity and the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion in American politics.
Is Kamala Harris a DEI Candidate? There is no straightforward answer. Considering her history, her experiences, her appointment as Vice President, and her prospective running for presidency, the question invites diverse perspectives. The answer, as is true with most political questions, lies in the eye of the beholder.