Since becoming the Democratic nominee for president, Vice President Kamala Harris has not granted interviews or held press conferences.

Fox News reported that Harris's deliberate avoidance of media scrutiny contrasts her strategy with that of her former running mate, President Biden.

Harris's campaign is experiencing a favorable period with positive media coverage, helping her tighten polls against former President Trump. She has chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her running mate, and the DNC convention is approaching, where candidates typically receive a bump in the polls.

Media Coverage and Campaign Strategy

President Biden faced intense media scrutiny and pressure leading to his exit from the race after a poor debate performance. Biden granted an interview eight days after his debate, whereas Harris has avoided media despite favorable coverage. Previously, Harris was more accessible to the media following Biden's debate.

Both Harris and Trump are actively campaigning, but only Trump is participating in interviews. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, a Harris supporter, has conducted multiple interviews promoting her candidacy. Republican vice presidential pick JD Vance criticized Harris for avoiding the media and urged reporters to hold her accountable.

Criticism and Support for Harris's Media Avoidance

Harris has not addressed questions about various significant issues, including Biden's mental decline, the Middle East, the economy, and her record as "border czar." There are suggestions that Harris's team sees interviews as too risky, citing past unscripted moments that were poorly received.

DePauw University journalism professor Jeffrey McCall commented on Harris's strategy, noting the favorable press coverage she is receiving and her tendency to falter in unscripted situations. He said:

As long as she is getting so much favorable press coverage, there is no need for her to take the risks associated with doing unscripted press interactions. Harris has shown repeatedly over her political career that she's just not very good at speaking in extemporaneous situations. She is known for her word salads and unserious style.

Media's Role and Public Reaction

Media outlets have been relatively silent on demanding Harris to take questions, with the exception of the New York Times editorial board urging her to engage more with reporters. Some believe journalists avoid pressing Harris to prevent potentially aiding Trump's campaign. Fox News anchor Bill Hemmer and others have called for more media coverage on Harris's refusal to take questions.

Democratic strategist Christopher Hale believes Harris doesn't need to grant interviews now and that her campaign is gaining momentum. Hale, who is spearheading "Catholics for Kamala," pointed to her rising favorability since her campaign launch as evidence of her growing support.

Comparisons to Biden's Campaign

Biden's campaign faced criticism for his lack of media engagement, and some draw parallels to Harris's current strategy. The New York Times editorial board highlighted this issue, noting that Biden's limited interaction with the press left him poorly prepared for the campaign trail and for confronting his opponent. The board wrote:

President Biden has rarely granted the news media permission to ask questions on behalf of the American people, and on the rare occasions he did, his team sometimes sent scripted questions. It left him poorly prepared for the campaign trail and for confronting his opponent. Mr. Trump, too, rarely takes questions. Ms. Harris has the chance to do better.

Harris's Public Appearances and Statements

Despite avoiding interviews, Harris has made public appearances, including a notable moment speaking on the tarmac following the return of three Americans freed from Russia as part of a historic prisoner swap. Her unscripted comments emphasized the importance of diplomacy and the strength of alliances.

Last week, Harris's reluctance to engage with the press was highlighted by Fox News anchor Bill Hemmer, who suggested that other media outlets need to cover Harris’s refusal to answer questions. Hemmer's comments reflect a growing call for greater transparency from the vice president.

Conclusion

Vice President Kamala Harris's avoidance of media interviews since becoming the Democratic nominee has sparked debate about her campaign strategy and accessibility. While some criticize her for not facing scrutiny, others argue that her campaign is gaining momentum without the need for media interactions. As the DNC convention approaches, the impact of Harris's strategy on her candidacy remains to be seen.