Texas Gov. Greg Abbott accuses Vice President Kamala Harris of being an "abject failure" in handling the border crisis. Despite this criticism, Harris has seen a boost in poll numbers, leading some to question whether her momentum is due to her own merits or relief among Democrats about replacing Biden.
Amidst the ongoing border crisis and political turmoil, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has leveled strong criticism at Vice President Kamala Harris, branding her an "abject failure" and accusing her of endangering Americans. Harris, who has been tasked with addressing the border situation, has faced scrutiny over her handling of the issue and her perceived lack of action.
Despite these criticisms, Harris has seen a surge in her poll numbers, outperforming President Biden in several recent surveys. This has led some to speculate whether her momentum is a reflection of her own strength as a candidate or simply a sign of relief among Democrats who are eager to move past Biden's troubled presidency.
Kamala Harris' Momentum: Democrats' Relief or Candidate Strength?
According to a GOP strategist, Harris' momentum may not be entirely attributed to her own merits but rather the result of Democrats feeling more optimistic about a potential replacement for Biden. David Kochel, a Republican strategist, told Fox News that the uptick in support for Harris is largely a reaction to the perceived doomed prospects of Biden's campaign.
"It's mostly a reflection of the relief Democrats feel moving past the Biden campaign, which appeared doomed," Kochel said. "It's not necessarily a reflection of Harris herself."
Kamala Harris' Momentum: Democrats' Relief or Candidate Strength?
Fox News polling data corroborates this view, indicating that Harris has gained a narrow lead over former President Trump in several battleground states since Biden withdrew from the race. For instance, Harris tied with Trump in Michigan, a state where Biden trailed Trump by a significant margin in January.
Moreover, Harris' favorable ratings have increased by nearly 10 points since Biden dropped out, as per an ABC News/Ipsos survey. Democrats have attributed Harris' success to her ability to unite the party and inspire voters.
Kamala Harris' Momentum: Democrats' Relief or Candidate Strength?
"It is so remarkable how in a matter of days Harris has consolidated our big tent party, and this is something that is coming from the ground up," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg told Fox News, expressing enthusiasm about the energy surrounding Harris' campaign.
However, Kochel cautioned that Harris' momentum will face a crucial test after the Democratic National Convention in August, where she is expected to be formally nominated as the party's candidate for 2024.
"If she sustains it through the convention, it will be more a reflection of her performance," Kochel said. "We'll know in a month what to call it."
The upcoming convention will provide a major platform for Harris to showcase her capabilities and potentially solidify her standing as a viable presidential contender. The outcome of this event will be closely watched by both Democrats and Republicans, as it will offer insights into the strength of Harris' candidacy and the trajectory of the 2024 election.
