In a unique political maneuver, Kamala Harris is simultaneously embracing her role as the incumbent Vice President while positioning herself as a harbinger of change in her presidential campaign. This dual approach has been evident in her recent campaign activities following the Democratic National Convention.
Harris, who has served as Vice President for 3.5 years, is now five weeks into her presidential campaign. Her strategy involves leveraging her experience in office while also presenting herself as a fresh alternative to "the politics of the past." This approach has allowed her to capitalize on the Biden administration's achievements while also addressing the public's desire for new leadership.
The 59-year-old daughter of Jamaican and Indian immigrants represents a significant departure from traditional presidential candidates. As the first female, African American, and South Asian American vice president, Harris embodies diversity and change in American politics. Her background as a graduate of a historically black college or university (HBCU) and her experience as California's Attorney General from 2011 to 2017 further distinguish her candidacy.
Harris's campaign has highlighted her involvement in key foreign policy decisions, including her meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in February 2022, just days before Russia's full-scale invasion. This emphasis on her role in international affairs aims to bolster her credentials as an experienced leader.
The Vice President's campaign has seen significant financial success, raising $82 million during the Democratic National Convention week and a total of $540 million since receiving Biden's endorsement on July 21, 2024. This fundraising prowess demonstrates strong support for her candidacy.
However, Harris's campaign is not without challenges. The Trump campaign has criticized her lack of policy specifics and attempted to portray her as more liberal than she presents herself. In response, Harris has largely maintained alignment with the Biden administration's policies while emphasizing her unique perspective and leadership style.
"This is a president who has an extraordinary amount of courage. I wish that the American public can see sometimes what I see, because ultimately – and the decision always rests with him – but I have seen him over and over again make decisions based exactly on what he believes is right."
As the campaign progresses, Harris continues to balance her roles as an experienced incumbent and a symbol of change. Her success in harmonizing these seemingly contradictory messages may prove crucial in appealing to a broad spectrum of voters seeking both stability and progress in the upcoming election.