Kamala Harris' New Book Offers Insights into Her Presidential Campaign
Vice President Kamala Harris released her memoir, "107 Days," on Tuesday, providing a behind-the-scenes look at her short-lived presidential campaign. The book offers a mix of reflections and criticisms about her time as a candidate.
According to the book, Harris believed she was loyal to the Biden family but felt that loyalty was not reciprocated. In an interview with NPR, Harris stated, "I thought I had been very loyal to them, but it's clear now that they didn't feel the same way." This sentiment is echoed in her book, where she writes about times when she felt Biden and his family were distant or unresponsive.
Harris' campaign was marked by a series of missteps, including a debate performance that many saw as lackluster. The candidate's struggles to connect with voters and articulate her policy positions ultimately led to her withdrawal from the race in December 2023.
In "107 Days," Harris also addresses criticism about her treatment of staff members during the campaign. She acknowledges making mistakes but argues that she was under immense pressure to perform well. "I was trying to do too much, too fast," she writes.
Some analysts see Harris' book as an attempt to reframe her legacy and provide context for her decision to drop out of the race. "She's trying to spin this as a noble sacrifice, but it's clear that she was struggling to connect with voters," said one Democratic strategist, who wished to remain anonymous.
Harris' campaign was notable for its emphasis on progressive policies, including universal healthcare and student loan forgiveness. While her book does not offer new policy proposals, it provides insight into the challenges of implementing such ideas at a national level.
The release of "107 Days" marks the beginning of Harris' cross-country tour, which will take her to major cities across the country. The tour is expected to generate significant media attention and provide an opportunity for Harris to reconnect with voters.
As Harris embarks on this new chapter in her career, it remains to be seen how her book will be received by the public and the Democratic Party. One thing is certain: "107 Days" offers a unique perspective on the challenges of running for president and the complexities of modern politics.
*Reporting by Npr.*