Kamala Harris's pain-free campaign faces first crunch moment
She avoided the challenges and scrutiny of a bitter Democratic primary, so Tuesday's debate entails even higher stakes.
The First Debate: A Crucial Test for Kamala Harris's Untested Candidacy
With Labor Day behind us, American voters are shifting their attention to the upcoming presidential election. As the race enters its final stretch, all eyes are on the upcoming debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, the first time the two candidates will meet face-to-face.
For Harris, this debate represents a significant test. Despite being Joe Biden's vice-presidential running mate, her national profile was relatively low until recently. This is largely due to her unconventional path to the Democratic ticket, having dropped out of the primary race before a single vote was cast.
However, Harris's late entry into the spotlight may have inadvertently become an advantage. She has been able to introduce herself to America on her own terms, highlighting her humble background, prosecutorial experience, and commitment to upholding fundamental rights. She has also successfully positioned herself as the candidate of change, despite being a part of the current administration.
Trump, on the other hand, has been attacking Harris as a "dangerously radical liberal." However, his accusations rely heavily on statements she made and policies she promoted during her failed 2019 Democratic primary campaign. To win the nomination, candidates often adopt more liberal positions to appeal to party members before pivoting to more mainstream views in the general election.
Since Harris did not have to compete for the nomination this time, she was not required to take such extreme positions. As a result, Trump has less ammunition to use against her.
Additionally, Harris's tax proposals announced this week further differentiate her platform from Biden's. This is a strategic move that would not have been possible had she competed in a Democratic primary.
Despite these advantages, there are potential drawbacks to Harris's late entry into the race. Without the experience of primary debates and unscripted appearances, she may be less prepared for the rigorous questioning she will face from Trump.
So far, Harris has only done one broadcast interview since becoming Biden's running mate, and it was a joint appearance with her husband. During her speeches and rallies, she has relied heavily on teleprompters and familiar lines.
The upcoming 90-minute debate will be her longest unscripted appearance of the campaign. Trump, with his extensive experience on the presidential debate stage, will likely attempt to force her off her prepared talking points and challenge her on her changing positions.
For Harris, who witnessed firsthand the impact of Trump's aggressive tactics during his previous debates, this encounter will be a significant test of her preparedness and resilience. For America, it will be an opportunity to see whether the Democratic candidate's untested candidacy can withstand the scrutiny of a presidential debate.
With Labor Day behind us, American voters are shifting their attention to the upcoming presidential election. As the race enters its final stretch, all eyes are on the upcoming debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, the first time the two candidates will meet face-to-face.
For Harris, this debate represents a significant test. Despite being Joe Biden's vice-presidential running mate, her national profile was relatively low until recently. This is largely due to her unconventional path to the Democratic ticket, having dropped out of the primary race before a single vote was cast.
However, Harris's late entry into the spotlight may have inadvertently become an advantage. She has been able to introduce herself to America on her own terms, highlighting her humble background, prosecutorial experience, and commitment to upholding fundamental rights. She has also successfully positioned herself as the candidate of change, despite being a part of the current administration.
Trump, on the other hand, has been attacking Harris as a "dangerously radical liberal." However, his accusations rely heavily on statements she made and policies she promoted during her failed 2019 Democratic primary campaign. To win the nomination, candidates often adopt more liberal positions to appeal to party members before pivoting to more mainstream views in the general election.
Since Harris did not have to compete for the nomination this time, she was not required to take such extreme positions. As a result, Trump has less ammunition to use against her.
Additionally, Harris's tax proposals announced this week further differentiate her platform from Biden's. This is a strategic move that would not have been possible had she competed in a Democratic primary.
Despite these advantages, there are potential drawbacks to Harris's late entry into the race. Without the experience of primary debates and unscripted appearances, she may be less prepared for the rigorous questioning she will face from Trump.
So far, Harris has only done one broadcast interview since becoming Biden's running mate, and it was a joint appearance with her husband. During her speeches and rallies, she has relied heavily on teleprompters and familiar lines.
The upcoming 90-minute debate will be her longest unscripted appearance of the campaign. Trump, with his extensive experience on the presidential debate stage, will likely attempt to force her off her prepared talking points and challenge her on her changing positions.
For Harris, who witnessed firsthand the impact of Trump's aggressive tactics during his previous debates, this encounter will be a significant test of her preparedness and resilience. For America, it will be an opportunity to see whether the Democratic candidate's untested candidacy can withstand the scrutiny of a presidential debate.