Vice President Kamala Harris locked up the Democratic presidential nomination after receiving the majority of delegate support in a virtual roll-call vote two weeks before the convention in Chicago. This nomination reflects the Democrats’ unity following President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek a second term. Biden endorsed Harris after withdrawing, leading to relief and excitement among Democrats and a strong fundraising haul. Harris faces criticism from Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, who has made comments about her racial identity and declined to commit to a debate with her.
Harris, who broke barriers as Biden’s vice president, now faces the challenge of becoming the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee. At 59 years old, Harris would break more barriers as president, but must overcome political and practical challenges. She must also be mindful of the loss of Hillary Clinton, the first major party female presidential candidate, eight years ago. However, Harris has strong support among key Democratic constituencies and has a track record in Congress and as attorney general of California.
Harris served in the U.S. Senate since 2017, focusing on issues such as hunger, housing, infrastructure, and climate change. She participated in confirming two U.S. Supreme Court justices during her time on the Judiciary Committee. Harris’s tenure as attorney general of California involved high-profile legal fights, resulting in billion-dollar settlements for Californians facing home foreclosure and attendees of a for-profit college. While her tough-on-crime reputation faced criticism during her presidential run, she later disarmed some detractors with an ambitious criminal justice reform plan.
Despite her experience, Harris’s nomination presents risks, as she has had limited electoral success outside of California. Her presidential run in 2019 ended early, and she will face greater scrutiny as the Democratic nominee. Republicans have criticized her work on immigration root causes and dubbed her Biden’s “border czar.” However, Harris has been a strong advocate for abortion rights, blaming the erosion of these rights on the previous Trump administration. Following an April court ruling on Arizona’s abortion ban, Harris emphasized the responsibility of the former president in the matter.
Harris’s nomination carries both challenges and benefits. While facing criticism for her past record and limited electoral success, she has the support of key Democratic constituencies and a strong track record in Congress and as attorney general of California. Harris’s advocacy for abortion rights and criminal justice reform has resonated with many voters. As she prepares for the presidential campaign, Harris will need to navigate criticism from Republicans, address her past record, and build a strong platform that appeals to a broad range of voters.
