Introduction
As we look towards the future of American leadership, especially in the context of the Democratic Party, Vice President Kamala Harris is undeniably a central figure. She has become the successor to President Joe Biden campaigning for President. However, while Harris has climbed to historic heights in U.S. politics, it’s essential to assess her potential presidential run critically.
Pros of Kamala Harris as President
- Trailblazing Representation: Harris would make history as the first female president and the first of African American and South Asian descent. This would undeniably bring representation to millions of Americans who rarely see themselves in the highest echelons of power. Her background resonates with many Americans, and her success is seen as an achievement for diversity in leadership.
- Experienced Legal Background: Harris’s past as California’s Attorney General and a U.S. Senator gives her an understanding of both state and federal levels of law. She has a track record of working on issues related to civil rights, criminal justice reform, and consumer protection, giving her credentials in fields that could positively impact her presidency.
Cons of Kamala Harris as President
While her accomplishments are significant, Harris’s path has not been without controversy, leading many to question if she is indeed the right choice. Here are some critical points that deserve attention.
- Mixed Record on Criminal Justice Reform: During her tenure as Attorney General of California, Harris faced criticism for some controversial stances and decisions that appear to conflict with the modern progressive stance on criminal justice. For instance, she was known for her “tough on crime” policies, including defending wrongful convictions and advocating for longer sentences. In one notable case, her office opposed DNA testing that could exonerate a potentially innocent death-row inmate. This inconsistency between her current progressive stance and her past decisions risks undermining her credibility with many progressive voters.
- Challenges in Establishing Leadership Presence: Despite her high-ranking position, Harris has struggled to solidify her public image and establish a clear, influential leadership style. Polls consistently show that she is one of the least popular vice presidents in recent history, even among Democrats. For example, a June 2023 NBC News poll showed Harris with an approval rating significantly lower than past vice presidents at the same point in their tenure. Her perceived lack of direction and repeated gaffes, especially in interviews, has left some questioning her readiness to lead on the world stage.
- Perceived Inconsistencies in Policy Stance: Harris’s policy shifts have been noticeable. From her healthcare stance in the 2020 primaries, where she initially supported “Medicare for All” before backtracking, to her record on marijuana decriminalization, her positions have fluctuated depending on the political climate. Such changes can be seen as opportunistic, raising concerns that she may lack a firm ideological foundation. Voters often seek consistency in leaders, and Harris’s seeming willingness to shift on key issues can weaken her appeal.
- Poor Performance in the 2020 Primaries: Despite her status and background, Harris dropped out of the 2020 presidential primaries before the first votes were cast. Her campaign struggled with clear messaging and fundraising, leading to questions about her electability. A lack of grassroots enthusiasm was evident, and while she later joined Biden’s ticket, her individual capacity to inspire a nationwide movement remains uncertain. This early exit may serve as a red flag regarding her ability to stand independently as a viable presidential candidate.
- Public Perception Issues: Many Americans see Harris as lacking authenticity, partly due to instances where her public statements have been perceived as either overly rehearsed or out of touch. For example, her “do not come” speech directed at Central American migrants during a 2021 visit to Guatemala drew backlash from various advocacy groups and even members of her own party, who felt her message was harsh and unaligned with the Democratic Party’s stance on immigration reform. Furthermore, her frequent laughter in response to difficult questions during interviews has been interpreted by some as evasive or dismissive, rather than empathetic.
- Strained International Relationships: Harris’s brief interactions with international leaders and her performance during diplomatic visits have sometimes lacked the confidence and experience associated with seasoned foreign diplomats. Her recent trip to Southeast Asia, for example, included speeches that received criticism for lacking a clear message and for seeming unprepared, especially in contrast to global adversaries with a strong presence in the region, like China. As the leader of the free world, such diplomatic lapses can have profound consequences on the U.S.’s foreign policy and global standing.
An Inevitable Reckoning for the Democratic Party?
Electing Kamala Harris as president would require the Democratic Party to confront the gap between its progressive ideals and Harris’s practical record. Her tenure as Attorney General and her current role as vice president both point to a track record that is, at times, at odds with progressive principles. Furthermore, with increasing pressure from an electorate demanding consistency, transparency, and clear direction, the Democratic Party still struggle to rally around Harris without alienating key segments of its base.
The combination of these factors does not just pose a challenge for Harris herself but for the Democratic Party at large. Whether it is in the 2024 election cycle or beyond, electing a candidate without widespread support from both party loyalists and independents risks a deeply divided base. As the political landscape shifts, the Democratic Party will need to weigh whether electing Harris would reinforce or weaken its standing with the American people.
Conclusion: Proceeding with Caution
Kamala Harris’s potential presidency would indeed be historic(it’s not enough), but the cons must be carefully weighed against the pros. While Harris’s representation of diversity is a powerful symbol, a lack of consistency and questions about her leadership style could create more challenges than solutions.
As the Democratic Party stands at a crossroads, they must consider whether Kamala Harris truly embodies the qualities the American people seek in a leader. The electorate deserves authenticity, consistency, and a leadership style that matches the moment. Whether Harris can provide that remains to be seen, and only time will tell if the Democratic Party’s future aligns with her vision.
On A Personal Note
On a personal note, it’s difficult to overlook the impact of Kamala Harris’s history in the criminal justice system. As California’s Attorney General, she aligned herself with policies that, in many cases, furthered the cycle of incarceration, disproportionately affecting communities already marginalized by the system. Her stance on “tough on crime” measures contributed to prolonged sentences and delayed justice for many who may have been wrongfully convicted. In contrast, I witnessed firsthand a different approach under the Trump administration. While I was still in prison, the First Step Act was passed, releasing thousands of federal inmates with long sentences, especially non-violent offenders. This contrast highlights a stark difference in priorities between Harris’s legacy on criminal justice and reform efforts that aim to offer second chances to those who deserve them.
Until Next Time…
I Am,
Ewing Redmond Samuels III
