Despite years in the public eye, many Americans still struggle to grasp the "real" Kamala Harris. Her insecurity and fear of scrutiny raise questions about her qualifications and the motivations behind her rise to power.
After three years as Vice President, seven years as California Attorney General, and four years as a Senator, the true nature of Kamala Harris remains elusive to many Americans. This enigma is astounding, given her extensive time in the public sphere.
Harris's apparent fear of the spotlight offers a plausible explanation for her evasiveness. When teleprompters fail, she resorts to "word salads" or ill-timed laughter to mask her anxiety. As Maureen Dowd remarked in The New York Times, "Even when getting softballs from supportive TV hosts, Harris at times seemed unsure of how to answer."
Kamala Harris: In Search of a Soul
One possibility for Harris's insecurity stems from a potential lack of qualifications and the realization that she achieved her current status for dubious reasons. Her selection as Vice President may have been driven by Joe Biden's promise to choose a woman of color, rather than her accomplishments. Similarly, her status as the 2024 nominee could be attributed to Democrats' fears that a diminished Biden could not defeat Donald Trump.
Another explanation is that Kamala Harris is feigning moderation. She may be struggling to conceal her progressive beliefs, which she espoused during her unsuccessful 2019 presidential campaign. Her parents' influence may have shaped her progressive views, which she claims have remained unchanged. However, her flip-flopping on issues like fracking and Medicare-for-All suggests political gambits to appease centrist voters.
Kamala Harris: In Search of a Soul
Finally, it's possible that Vice President Harris lacks core beliefs and guiding values. President Reagan believed in limited government and peace through strength, principles that Donald Trump echoes. David Brooks of The Times suggests that Harris "needs to show the American people her strongest, most acute and controlling desire, the ruling passion of her soul." This suggests she may lack such a passion.
As Harris's shortcomings become more apparent, Democrats are growing frantic. They offer advice, such as distancing herself from Biden, conveying joy with specific policy issues, or preemptively naming Mitt Romney as Secretary of State.
Kamala Harris: In Search of a Soul
While COVID-19 provided an excuse for Joe Biden to avoid scrutiny, Harris has no such excuse. She has refused interviews and avoided unscripted moments. This has led to a sense of frustration among voters.
Harris's vow not to change any of Biden's policies over the past three and a half years highlights her lack of forward-thinking. Sticking with failed policies demonstrates her unwillingness to progress.
Kamala Harris: In Search of a Soul
Kamala Harris remains an enigma, her true nature clouded by insecurity, questionable qualifications, and a potential lack of core beliefs. Democrats' panic and ill-conceived advice reflect their desperation as polls tighten. Harris's refusal to engage with voters and her unwavering support for Biden's failed policies suggest she is both out of touch and uninspired.
