Vice President Kamala Harris says her values have not changed despite making policy adjustments since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee.
Vice President Kamala Harris asserted that her fundamental values have remained consistent despite evolving policy positions in an interview with CNN. The comments sparked mixed reactions from conservative commentators and media outlets.
When asked about the motivations behind her policy shifts, Harris explained that her core beliefs have not wavered. She emphasized her unwavering commitment to addressing the climate crisis, securing the border, and combating transnational crime.
Kamala Harris Defends Policy Changes, Values Remain Unaltered
"The most important and most significant aspect of my policy perspective and decisions is my values have not changed," Harris stated.
Her stance on the Green New Deal, which aims to transition the economy to renewable energy sources, exemplifies her consistent belief in the urgency of combating climate change. Harris highlighted the importance of setting specific deadlines and goals to measure progress.
Kamala Harris Defends Policy Changes, Values Remain Unaltered
"I have always believed, and I've worked on it, that the climate crisis is real, that it is an urgent matter to which we should apply metrics that include holding ourselves to deadlines around time," Harris said.
On border security, Harris drew upon her experience as California's Attorney General to support her values. She emphasized the need to address transnational crime, including the illegal passage of goods and people across the border.
Kamala Harris Defends Policy Changes, Values Remain Unaltered
"I spent two terms as the Attorney General of California prosecuting transnational criminal organizations, violations of American laws regarding the passage, illegal passage of guns, drugs, and human beings across our border. My values have not changed," she said.
Conservative critics, however, expressed skepticism towards Harris's explanation. They questioned the coherence and consistency of her policy views.
Kamala Harris Defends Policy Changes, Values Remain Unaltered
"Gobbledygook," conservative commentator Steve Guest posted on Twitter. "The definition of a deadline is 'the latest time or date by which something should be completed'."
Noah Rothman, a senior writer at the National Review, referred to her comments as "rambling." Charles C. W. Cooke, a British-American journalist, called the clip an "instant classic."
"Undefeated. She's still got it—even as the nominee," he said.
Despite the criticism, Harris maintained that her values remain the guiding force behind her policy decisions. She asserted that her experience and evolving understanding of complex issues have shaped her approach, but her core beliefs have not been compromised.
