Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted her advocacy on contentious issues, distinguishing herself from President Joe Biden.
Haris hosted rapper Fat Joe at the White House to discuss marijuana law reform and visited an abortion clinic. She called for a ceasefire at Alabama’s historic Selma bridge in Gaza. Harris also visited the site of the Parkland, Florida, school shooting, indicating her move into the spotlight to unite voters for a second term.
Harris is addressing topics that have caused some progressive Democrats to critique Biden, especially his stance on Israel. With concerns over Biden’s age and leadership, Harris, at 59, is tackling these hot-button issues more frequently and directly.
Though Biden has supported abortion rights, Harris went further during a Planned Parenthood visit in Minneapolis, marking a significant moment as it’s believed to be the first for a sitting vice president. She emphasized abortion as a crucial aspect of women’s healthcare.
In Selma, her comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict represented the most forthright from a U.S. official at that time, calling for an “immediate ceasefire” and urging Israel to address the “humanitarian catastrophe” in Gaza.
However, despite her empathetic language, Abbas Alawieh criticized Harris for not advocating for a substantial policy shift on Gaza.
Harris’ team insists there’s no policy discrepancy with Biden, highlighting a difference in tone and focus areas. They argue Harris has been at the forefront of key issues since her prosecutorial days.
Biden’s strategy avoids divisive cultural issues to avoid alienating conservative voters. Instead, he concentrates on economic policies critical for winning centrists in key states.
Harris is engaging in a more aggressive role with tours focused on reproductive and other freedoms while addressing economic topics.
She faces the challenge of reuniting the Democratic base, divided over issues like Israel policy and immigration. Recent polls show a tie between Biden and Donald Trump nationally, with specific demographic groups expressing dissatisfaction with Biden’s presidency.
Despite some White House aides questioning her effectiveness, Harris remains a key figure in the administration, with Biden affirming his support.
Harris aims to align closely with Biden, especially on sensitive issues like Gaza, ensuring they present a united front.
