Vice President Kamala Harris says candidates need to "earn" support, despite facing criticism for bypassing the primary election process and becoming the Democratic presidential nominee.
Vice President Kamala Harris has emphasized the importance of earning voters' support in the upcoming 2024 presidential election, despite her own experience becoming the Democratic nominee without running in a primary.
During a recent "60 Minutes" interview, Harris was questioned by journalist Bill Whitaker about why a significant number of voters remain unfamiliar with her and what challenges she faces in connecting with them.
Harris: Candidates Must 'Earn' Support, Despite Bypassing Primary
"It's an election, Bill, and I take it seriously that I have to earn everyone's vote," Harris replied. "This is an election for President of the United States. No one should be able to take for granted that they can just declare themselves a candidate and automatically receive support."
Harris's comments come amidst criticism from political opponents and groups like Black Lives Matter, who accuse the Democratic Party of anointing her as its nominee and bypassing the traditional voting process.
Harris: Candidates Must 'Earn' Support, Despite Bypassing Primary
In 2020, many potential candidates dropped out of the Democratic primaries after former Vice President Joe Biden abruptly ended his re-election bid following his first debate against former President Donald Trump.
The Democratic Party quickly coalesced around Harris, winning enough delegate support to secure the nomination at the Democratic National Convention in August.
Harris: Candidates Must 'Earn' Support, Despite Bypassing Primary
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi defended the party's process, claiming that it was "open" and that Harris "won it." However, the absence of any primary contest has led to questions about Harris's legitimacy as a candidate.
In her "60 Minutes" interview, Harris acknowledged the need to connect with voters and address their concerns.
"I'm going to be out there talking to people, listening to them, and making my case for why I should be the next President of the United States," she said.
Harris's comments highlight the challenges facing her in the upcoming election, as she attempts to overcome the skepticism and reservations of some voters.
The vice president is expected to formally announce her candidacy in the coming weeks, setting the stage for a potentially crowded Democratic primary.
