Vice President Kamala Harris has not held a formal press conference or given a wide-ranging interview since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, prompting criticism from political opponents and commentators.
Vice President Kamala Harris has come under fire for her lack of media engagement since becoming the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee. Despite speaking at various events, including the first night of the Democratic National Convention, Harris has not conducted a formal press conference or given a comprehensive interview in over a month.
This avoidance of press scrutiny has drawn criticism from the left-leaning Washington Post editorial board, which questioned her accountability for numerous policy shifts. Columnists such as Perry Bacon have also called on Harris to take questions.
Kamala Harris Avoids Press Scrutiny, Sparking Criticism
Former President Trump has taken the opportunity to criticize Harris's media strategy, claiming that she "doesn't know how to do a news conference" and is "not smart enough" for it.
CNN anchor Jim Acosta pressed the Harris campaign on the issue, asking if it was "impossible" for her to hold a press conference. Communications director Michael Tyler responded by vaguely promising an interview by the end of the month.
Kamala Harris Avoids Press Scrutiny, Sparking Criticism
GOP vice-presidential candidate JD Vance joined the chorus of criticism, urging reporters to "show a little bit of self-awareness" and push Harris to fulfill her duties by speaking to them.
Progressives have defended Harris's decision to avoid the media, arguing that her focus should be on engaging with voters directly through rallies and digital platforms. CNN commentator Paul Begala dismissed the issue, saying "who cares?"
Kamala Harris Avoids Press Scrutiny, Sparking Criticism
Former Obama administration ambassador Michael McFaul argued that Harris should only hold a press conference if it helps her win, but cautioned against projecting a lack of confidence.
NewsBusters executive editor Tim Graham predicted that Harris would follow the strategy employed by President Biden during the 2020 campaign, who was accused of "hiding in his basement."
Kamala Harris Avoids Press Scrutiny, Sparking Criticism
The Harris campaign has stated that its strategy is to reach voters through a variety of means, including paid media, grassroots organizing, and interviews that target specific demographics.
Critics argue that this strategy is ineffective and that Harris should be more accessible to the press, particularly in light of her opponent's media availability. They also question her accountability for her policy shifts and her overall ability to fulfill the role of a presidential candidate.
As the campaign season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Harris will continue to avoid media engagement or will respond to the mounting pressure to hold a formal press conference.
