Kamala Harris promised a tougher approach to migration along the U.S. southern border and affirmed her support for supplying weapons to Israel. The interview, conducted by CNN anchor Dana Bash, highlighted Harris’s effort to present herself as a decisive leader with clear policy positions ahead of the November 5 election.
Migration and Border Security
Harris committed to renewing a push for comprehensive border legislation aimed at tightening migration into the United States. Stressing the importance of enforcing existing laws, she stated, “We have laws that have to be followed and enforced, that address and deal with people who cross our border illegally, and there should be consequences.” This marks a firm stance on migration, reflecting a shift toward the center on this issue compared to her previous positions.
Support for Israel Amidst Conflict
The vice president also closely aligned herself with President Joe Biden’s strong support for Israel, rejecting calls from some Democrats to reconsider U.S. military aid due to the significant Palestinian casualties in Gaza. Harris stressed the need for a ceasefire and hostage negotiations, but made clear she would not withhold weapons from Israel, stating, “No, we have to get a (ceasefire and hostage) deal done.”
This stance has drawn criticism from some progressive voices within the Democratic Party. Abbas Alawieh, co-founder of the Uncommitted National Movement, expressed frustration, saying, “If the vice president is interested in a ceasefire, she must support an immediate stop to sending the fire.”
Bipartisanship and Inclusivity
In a move to appeal to a broader voter base, Harris, accompanied by her vice presidential running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, expressed a desire to include a Republican in her cabinet if she wins the presidency. “I think it’s important to have people at the table when some of the most important decisions are being made that have different views, different experiences,” she said, highlighting her commitment to bipartisanship.
Campaign Momentum and Polling Lead
Since her nomination, Harris has gained significant momentum, surging in the polls and raising substantial campaign funds. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Thursday showed her leading former President Donald Trump 45% to 41%, with the vice president sparking renewed enthusiasm among voters.
Despite some critics suggesting she might struggle in unscripted settings, Harris handled the CNN interview smoothly, making no major errors. She defended her and Biden’s handling of the economy, attributing current inflation issues to the pandemic-ravaged economy they inherited from Trump. “Much work has been done to lower prices but prices are still too high,” Harris acknowledged.
Shift Toward the Center
Harris has moved closer to the center on several key issues since her 2020 presidential campaign. She no longer supports a ban on fracking, a significant policy shift given the industry’s role in Pennsylvania—a crucial swing state. When questioned about her evolving positions, Harris responded, “My values have not changed,” underscoring her commitment to pragmatic policymaking.
Responding to Criticism
Harris also took the opportunity to dismiss recent remarks by Trump, who questioned her racial identity and often labels her a Marxist. “Same old tired playbook,” Harris said in response, refusing to be drawn into a debate on Trump’s inflammatory rhetoric.
With the election just over two months away, Harris’s appearance on CNN was a strategic move to solidify her position as the Democratic frontrunner. As she continues her campaign with Tim Walz, Harris’s focus remains on presenting herself as a knowledgeable and capable leader ready to guide the nation through its next chapter.
