Despite her presumptive Democratic presidential nomination, Vice President Kamala Harris has remained elusive, avoiding press conferences and formal interviews, raising concerns among critics.
Kamala Harris's ascent to the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee has been met with a curious silence. Since declaring her nomination, Harris has gone 11 days without holding a press conference, dodging tough questions and retreating behind a carefully crafted facade of popularity.
This unprecedented move has sparked criticism from across the political spectrum, with many questioning Harris's accountability and readiness for the demands of the Oval Office. National Review senior writer Noah Rothman took to social media to ask, "When is Kamala Harris going to hold a press conference?"
Kamala Harris: Hiding Behind a Facade of Popularity
The Republican National Committee (RNC) Research account noted that Harris has only conducted "teleprompter speeches," while conservative pundit Ben Shapiro pointed out that she "has not answered ONE difficult question in the last week and a half."
NewsBusters executive editor Tim Graham believes Harris is following in President Biden's footsteps, who infamously avoided press conferences during the 2020 COVID pandemic. Graham suggests that Harris is projecting a lack of confidence in her ability to handle unscripted settings.
Kamala Harris: Hiding Behind a Facade of Popularity
DePauw University media studies professor Jeffrey McCall believes that Harris's campaign is exploiting the lack of media scrutiny, knowing that Biden's similar strategy proved successful in 2020. He adds that Harris's supporters are more focused on her persona than her policy positions, making accountability less of a priority.
However, McCall warns that Harris may eventually face pressure to engage with the media, particularly if she hopes to attract moderate or undecided voters.
Kamala Harris: Hiding Behind a Facade of Popularity
The Harris campaign has remained silent on the criticism, refusing to comment on her lack of press conferences.
As the Democratic National Convention approaches on August 19th, Harris's elusiveness has raised questions about her ability to withstand the rigors of a presidential campaign and the scrutiny that comes with it. Critics argue that her avoidance of tough questions undermines her credibility and casts doubt on her fitness for office.
While Harris may enjoy a temporary honeymoon period with her supporters, her unwillingness to engage with the media could prove detrimental in the long run, especially if she hopes to broaden her appeal and become a viable alternative to President Trump.
