Kamala Harris faced mockery after using the word “holistic” multiple times in a rapid-fire manner during an interview with MSNBC host Stephanie Ruhle. The term refers to viewing connections and systems in a comprehensive manner rather than as individual topics. Harris’s use of the word came during a response about housing and urban development policies, where she emphasized the need to consider various factors such as transit, housing, and federal incentives to support affordable housing for working people.
Republicans and conservatives quickly seized on Harris’s repeated use of the word, mocking her for seemingly using it as a crutch in her speech. Many commentators on social media criticized her for appearing to have just learned the word “holistically,” with some questioning her intelligence and ability to communicate effectively. Despite the criticism, the interview with MSNBC was the first solo sitdown that Harris had with a national outlet since becoming the Democratic vice-presidential nominee.
Critics have accused Harris’s campaign of dodging the press and only speaking to outlets that offer softball questions. While her team has defended their media strategy by stating that they have engaged with a diverse range of nontraditional media outlets, the lack of accessibility to mainstream press has raised concerns among political commentators. Harris has participated in a total of eight recognized interviews since joining the Democratic ticket, including joint interviews with her running mate Tim Walz, local radio appearances, and discussions with various media personalities.
Some observers have noted a pattern in Harris’s interviews, where she tends to use specific buzzwords or phrases repeatedly. This has led to questions about her authenticity and communication style, with the vice president being accused of overusing certain terms to make up for perceived shortcomings in her policy knowledge or speaking abilities. While Harris has garnered attention for her use of words like “holistic,” critics argue that she should focus on providing clear, concise answers that address the issues at hand without relying on jargon or complex language.
Despite the criticisms of her communication style, Harris has continued to advocate for policies related to housing, urban development, and other key issues. Her emphasis on approaching challenges in a holistic manner reflects a broader commitment to addressing systemic issues and creating comprehensive solutions that benefit all Americans. While her use of terminology may be subject to ridicule from some quarters, Harris’s focus on holistic solutions underscores her dedication to tackling complex problems through interconnected strategies and collaboration with various stakeholders. As the vice president and Democratic nominee, Harris will likely continue to face scrutiny over her language and rhetoric, but her commitment to addressing important issues remains unwavering.
