Vice President Kamala Harris has avoided formal press conferences for over a week, leading critics to question her accountability and transparency.
Vice President Kamala Harris has gone 12 days without holding a formal press conference since becoming the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee. The absence has sparked criticism from pundits and political observers, who argue that Harris is evading tough questions and avoiding accountability.
Harris announced her nomination on July 22nd and has since embarked on the campaign trail, giving speeches and chatting with reporters. However, she has not held a comprehensive press conference or participated in a wide-ranging interview during this period.
Kamala Harris's Absence from Press Conferences Raises Eyebrows
Her silence has drawn comparisons to former President Donald Trump, who was known for his avoidance of press conferences during his presidency. Critics have noted that Harris has only engaged in "teleprompter speeches" and has refrained from answering challenging questions.
Some analysts believe that Harris is following President Biden's strategy from the 2020 campaign, when he was accused of "hiding in his basement" due to his limited public appearances. Biden was able to secure the presidency despite his lack of media engagement, but it remains to be seen if this approach will be effective for Harris.
Kamala Harris's Absence from Press Conferences Raises Eyebrows
Experts suggest that Harris's reluctance to face the press stems from her discomfort in unscripted settings and her desire to avoid defending her positions and record. They also point to the unwavering support she enjoys from Democratic voters, who may not demand the same level of accountability.
However, from a rhetorical perspective, critics argue that Harris would benefit from engaging in press conferences and interviews. It would allow her to attract moderate and undecided voters who seek a more transparent and accessible candidate.
Kamala Harris's Absence from Press Conferences Raises Eyebrows
Despite calls for a press conference, the Harris campaign has remained silent on the issue. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to begin on August 19th in Chicago, and it is unclear if Harris will address the topic before then.
The absence of a press conference from a potential presidential nominee is unprecedented in recent American history. It raises questions about Harris's ability to withstand scrutiny and her commitment to openness and transparency in government.
