Is Kamala Harris Criticizing Joe Biden's Re-Election Bid as Recklessness?

In her forthcoming memoir, Kamala Harris has unleashed her most pointed critique yet of Joe Biden, labelling his decision to run for a second term as "recklessness". This revelation comes from an excerpt published by The Atlantic, in which Harris reflects on her time as vice-president and the dynamics of their working relationship.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Harris describes Biden's decision to seek re-election as reckless, questioning the motivations behind it.
• She expresses feelings of being sidelined and underappreciated for her contributions during her vice-presidency.
• Despite acknowledging Biden's experience, she highlights concerns regarding his age and stamina.
• Harris outlines the challenges she faced in managing her public perception as 'border czar'.
• Her book, titled "107 Days", references the duration of her unsuccessful presidential campaign.

Harris's Stark Criticism of Biden

In a striking excerpt from her memoir "107 Days", Kamala Harris openly criticises President Joe Biden's decision to pursue a second term. She describes the mantra surrounding Biden's campaign as "hypnotic", suggesting that it masked deeper concerns about his fitness for office. Harris reflects, "Was it grace, or was it recklessness? In retrospect, I think it was recklessness."

The Vice-President's Position

Harris reveals the complexities of her role as vice-president, particularly in regards to advising Biden against running again. She felt that any advice she offered would be perceived as self-serving or disloyal. "I knew it would come off to him as incredibly self-serving if I advised him not to run," she writes. This insight sheds light on the often fraught dynamics within political partnerships, especially when one party is in a position of power.

A Personal Decision with Broader Implications

Harris stresses that the decision for Biden to run should not have been solely personal, stating, "The stakes were simply too high." She argues that such a significant choice should involve more than just individual ambition, especially when the implications for the nation are so profound. This perspective raises questions about the responsibilities of leadership and the need for collective decision-making in high-stakes situations.

Addressing Criticism and Public Perception

Throughout her vice-presidency, Harris faced criticism and scrutiny that she claims were not adequately addressed by the White House. She notes how her role as 'border czar' was mischaracterised, undermining her efforts to tackle migration issues in Latin America. Harris asserts that despite securing billions in investment commitments aimed at addressing the root causes of migration, her contributions were overshadowed by negative narratives.

Age and Fitness Concerns

Harris does not shy away from discussing Biden's age, stating, "But at 81, Joe got tired." She suggests that his advanced age has led to visible signs of fatigue, both physically and verbally. This acknowledgment of age-related concerns resonates with a broader public discourse about the suitability of older leaders in high office. The implications of these reflections may influence public perception as the 2024 election approaches.

A Journey Through Challenges

In her memoir, Harris recounts a trip to Texas following a devastating hurricane. During her stay, she witnessed Biden's televised address, which she initially found compelling. However, she was disappointed that it took nearly nine minutes for him to mention her, a moment that highlights the ongoing struggle for recognition within their partnership. This anecdote serves to illustrate the complexities and challenges of navigating high-profile political roles.

Looking Ahead: The Book and Its Implications

Harris's memoir, "107 Days", set for release on 23 September, not only provides insights into her experiences as vice-president but also sheds light on the dynamics of her relationship with Biden. As she embarks on a book tour across 15 cities, including stops in the UK and Canada, the conversations surrounding her reflections may dominate political discourse leading up to the 2024 elections.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead?

As the political landscape continues to evolve, Harris's revelations about her time in office may alter perceptions of both her and Biden's leadership. The candid nature of her critique raises important questions about the responsibilities of political leaders and the need for transparent communication within their ranks. What will be the long-term implications of these revelations for their political futures? Only time will tell.

#KamalaHarris #JoeBiden #PoliticalMemoir

FAQs

What is Kamala Harris's critique of Joe Biden in her memoir?

Harris criticises Biden's decision to run for a second term, calling it "recklessness" and suggesting it should not have been a personal choice given the stakes involved.

When will Harris's memoir "107 Days" be released?

The memoir is set to be published on 23 September 2023, and it includes reflections on her vice-presidency and relationship with Biden.

What issues did Harris face during her vice-presidency?

Harris faced criticism regarding her role as 'border czar' and felt sidelined in the White House, particularly regarding the public perception of her contributions.

How does Harris view Biden's age and fitness for office?

Harris acknowledges Biden's age, stating that at 81, he shows signs of fatigue, which raises concerns about his ability to effectively lead the country.

What can we expect from Harris's upcoming book tour?

Harris plans to visit 15 cities, including locations in the UK and Canada, to promote her memoir and engage in discussions about her experiences and insights.