Former Bill Clinton strategist Paul Begala dismisses concerns over Vice President Harris' lack of media appearances, claiming that voters are more interested in her policy positions than her accessibility to the press.
As vice presidential candidate Kamala Harris enters the 2024 presidential race, her media avoidance has become a topic of scrutiny. Critics argue that her refusal to engage with the press suggests a lack of transparency and accountability, while her supporters defend her strategy as a way to focus on connecting with voters directly.
Amidst the ongoing debate, former Bill Clinton strategist Paul Begala defended Harris' approach. In a recent CNN panel discussion, Begala downplayed the importance of media interviews, stating that voters are primarily concerned with her policy positions.
Kamala Harris' Media Aversion: Who Cares, Says Begala
"Just one question: Who cares?" he retorted. "There's nobody at the Tractor Supply shop who say, 'Gee, I like that Kamala wants to raise the minimum wage. I like that she wants to cut the cost of prescription drugs. I like that she's going to protect my sister's right to choose. But she hasn't done enough interviews with [Jim] Acosta.'"
As of Wednesday, Harris has gone 24 days without holding a formal press conference or participating in a sit-down interview since becoming the nominee. Despite the mounting criticism, Begala believes that this strategy will not alienate voters.
Kamala Harris' Media Aversion: Who Cares, Says Begala
"I think she should [do interviews]. Okay? But let's just put this into perspective," Begala continued. "The flippant remark drew chuckles from anchor Jim Acosta before he pushed back on Begala's argument."
Acosta pointed out that Harris' lack of media accessibility raises concerns about her willingness to engage with the public. "Thanks for standing up for the free press, Paul, we appreciate that," Acosta joked. "No, but I mean, she should. There's just no question about it."
Kamala Harris' Media Aversion: Who Cares, Says Begala
Earlier in the hour, Acosta pressed a Harris-Walz campaign official on why the vice president was avoiding the media.
Navarro also defended Harris in the segment, claiming that the VP hasn't had time to talk to the media since she announced her candidacy roughly three weeks ago, but said she was confident Harris would eventually do so.
"Of course she needs to do that," she concluded.
Other Democrats have come out to defend Harris' avoidance of the media this week. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy told CNN on Tuesday that Harris would have "plenty of time" to talk to the media before November.
"She's on a roll," Murphy said. "She's brought joy back into the whole arena of politics. There will be plenty of time to do interviews," he told host Kate Bolduan.
The Harris campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fox News Digital.
Harris' media avoidance has reignited the debate about the role of the press in holding politicians accountable. While some argue that it is essential for voters to hear directly from candidates, others believe that relentless media scrutiny can be counterproductive and distract from substantive discussion.
As the 2024 election approaches, Harris will face increasing pressure to address the concerns of voters and the media alike. Whether her strategy of limiting media appearances proves successful or alienating remains to be seen.
