In the wake of her recent electoral defeat, Vice President Kamala Harris is taking a break in Hawaii while considering her political future.
Harris was defeated by President-elect Donald Trump in the presidential race and is now deliberating a 2028 presidential bid, despite divided opinions on her potential candidacy, Mail Online reported.
Having recently ended her bid for the presidency, Harris is reflecting on her next political moves. With a vested interest in the Democratic nomination for the 2028 presidential election, she is seen as a leading contender according to some polls. However, her potential return to the national political arena is not without hurdles.
According to a recent Puck News/Echelon Insights survey, Harris commands 41% support among Democratic voters for the 2028 presidential nomination. Despite this showing, a significant 59% of Democrats are exploring alternatives for their next candidate. This showcases a party divided in its support for Harris moving forward.
Throughout her recent campaign, Harris attempted to separate her identity from President Joe Biden's tenure. Her challenge was compounded by longstanding criticisms regarding her communication skills and lack of a distinct political identity. Suggestions for her improvement include articulating clearer policy positions and adopting a more daring media strategy.
Several political strategists have weighed in on Harris' recent campaign performance. A well-connected Democratic strategist voiced, "Of course she’s going to try and run again," while another strategist assessed, "Even when she’s talking forever, she’s not really saying much at all," highlighting the complexity of her communication style.
Outside the presidential race, Harris is considering a gubernatorial bid in California, with polls showing 46% support among voters. This could enhance her political credentials at the state level.
Some insiders suggest her 2019 platform, including stances like plastic straw bans, may have hurt her recent efforts. Media figures like Glenn Greenwald are skeptical of her chances to regain political traction, citing her recent defeat.
Jen Psaki, former White House Press Secretary, commented on Psaki’s podcast that “You have to be fearless in how you communicate, and who and what formats you communicate on and that means all the things” before adding, “Brat summer, which was cool, didn’t work. Young people didn’t turn out.”
While Harris mulls over the possibility of running for governor, some speculate she may exit politics altogether. Alternative career paths beyond her vice-presidential term are speculated to be on the table.
Another Democratic strategist suggested, "Kamala can run again and hopefully will improve as a messenger," though concerns remain regarding her ability to convey a coherent and impactful message. This echoes broader criticisms from her campaign, where rhetoric from 2019 resurfaced without adequate contextual updates.
Looking forward, Harris' next moves could redefine her political journey. Whether she aims for a comeback on the national stage or shifts her focus to a state role, she faces a pivotal time in her career.
The election defeat has ushered in a period of introspection for Harris as she grapples with her path forward. The support of her base and the potential for a gubernatorial bid are balanced against critiques and the challenges of carving out a unique political identity.
As she evaluates her options, her decisions will significantly impact her trajectory and that of the Democratic Party.
