Vice President Kamala Harris has granted her first interview since becoming the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, joined by running mate Tim Walz. The interview comes after 39 days of stonewalling by Harris, raising questions about her media availability during the campaign.
Vice President Kamala Harris finally broke her interview drought on Thursday, sitting down with CNN's Dana Bash alongside running mate Tim Walz. The interview marks the first time Harris has participated in a formal media appearance since becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee for president.
Despite promising to schedule an interview before the end of August, Harris waited another 18 days before agreeing to speak with CNN. Critics have accused Harris of dodging press inquiries and avoiding tough questions, highlighting her struggles in past interviews.
Kamala Harris Breaks Interview Drought, Joined by Tim Walz
During a rare press gaggle earlier this month, Harris insisted she wanted to be interviewed but did not specify a timeline. Former President Trump has sought to draw attention to the contrast in media availability between himself and Harris, granting several lengthy interviews and holding press conferences.
Harris's interview avoidance has been noted by friendly media outlets, with some expressing frustration over her unwillingness to engage with the press. The joint interview with Walz suggests Harris may be attempting to offset potential difficulties in responding to challenging questions.
Kamala Harris Breaks Interview Drought, Joined by Tim Walz
In 2021, Harris struggled to explain her border security strategy and joked inappropriately about her lack of visits to Europe when asked about the southern border. The following year, The New York Times reported that Harris had retreated from interviews out of fear of making mistakes and disappointing President Biden.
Whether Bash will press Harris on her policy shifts since 2020 remains to be seen. Harris has turned around the 2024 race since replacing Biden, giving Democrats newfound hope after a disappointing debate performance by the former president.
Kamala Harris Breaks Interview Drought, Joined by Tim Walz
Despite her improved poll numbers, Harris has faced criticism for not holding a formal press conference since Biden ended his re-election bid. Fox News contributor Joe Concha predicted Harris would avoid press conferences until Election Day.
Critics have pointed out that Harris has received support from friendly media outlets, which may allow her to bypass difficult questions. National Review writer Jeff Behar suggested that Walz was acting as Harris's "emotional support midwesterner."
Kamala Harris Breaks Interview Drought, Joined by Tim Walz
Huckabee Sanders also criticized Harris for doing a joint interview with Walz, arguing that she was incapable of conducting interviews independently. Fox News Digital's Paul Steinhauser contributed to this report.
