Vice President Kamala Harris has yet to grant an interview or hold a press conference since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, sparking criticism and concerns about her transparency and accountability.
In an unprecedented turn of events, Vice President Kamala Harris has chosen to shun the traditional media landscape and avoid direct engagement with the American public. Since swiftly becoming the Democratic nominee, she has steadfastly refused to participate in interviews or press conferences, leaving a lingering question mark over her stance on critical issues.
This enigmatic media strategy is drawing increasing criticism, with pundits accusing Harris of "ducking" the media and reusing campaign speeches word-for-word. The Associated Press (AP) has raised eyebrows by suggesting that the need for Harris to engage with the press is overrated, sparking outrage among journalists and observers.
Vice President Kamala Harris's Media Avoidance Draws Criticism and Concerns
The AP report, titled "Meet the press? Hold that thought," argues that the role of journalists as presidential gatekeepers is diminishing. It quotes GOP strategist Kevin Madden, who asserts that candidates aim to "control the message as much as possible," and that interviews and press conferences undermine that control.
According to the AP, candidates fear being subjected to tough questions and have found it increasingly difficult to control the narrative in traditional interviews. The report highlights that Harris's campaign may be following the lead of President Biden, whose interviews after his disastrous debate performance did little to alter his declining popularity.
Vice President Kamala Harris's Media Avoidance Draws Criticism and Concerns
Critics have vehemently denounced the AP's report, accusing it of abdicating journalism's responsibility to hold politicians accountable. Amanda Fortini, a writer and columnist, expressed dismay, stating, "THIS IS NOT OK! And it's journalists' job to say so." National Review editor Philip Klein labeled the AP's stance as "Beyond embarrassing."
Other critics have accused the AP of propagating propaganda and lies, while some have questioned the ability of the national press to maintain its integrity while protecting candidates from scrutiny. Despite numerous requests for comment, the AP has remained silent.
Vice President Kamala Harris's Media Avoidance Draws Criticism and Concerns
Harris's media avoidance has coincided with a wave of glowing coverage, creating a honeymoon period for the Democratic nominee. However, as the campaign intensifies, she will inevitably face heightened pressure to address public concerns and provide transparency on her policy positions.
Meanwhile, her rivals, former President Trump and running mate Sen. JD Vance, have relentlessly targeted Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, for their lack of media accessibility. The public's patience with Harris's media blackout is wearing thin, and the consequences of her continued silence may be politically damaging as the election approaches.
Vice President Kamala Harris's Media Avoidance Draws Criticism and Concerns
