‘America Is Crying Out For Leadership’: Kamala Harris Enters 2020 Campaign Swinging

TOPLINE

Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) hit the campaign trail as former Vice President Joe Biden’s running mate with a bang, tearing into Trump’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic and the economy, recounting her friendship with Biden’s late son Beau and praising Biden for his “empathy and compassion.”

KEY FACTS

Crucial Quote

Though Harris brandished her argumentation skills in her remarks, she also signaled a willingness to open up to the public. “My family means everything to me,” she declared. “I’ve had many titles over the year, and while ‘vice president’ will be great, ‘momala’ will always be the one that means the most.”

Chief Critic

The Trump campaign took aim at Biden and Harris for not taking questions, a common criticism of the campaign from both Republicans and the media. “And … no questions,” tweeted Trump campaign communications director Tim Murtaugh. Rapid response staffer Abigail Marone remarked, “I also wouldn’t take questions either if I was planning to raise taxes, eliminate private health care, ban fracking, and enable open borders.”

What To Watch For 

Harris’ speech all but confirms that a major role she’ll play in the campaign is as an “attack dog,” for which her experience as a prosecutor makes her well suited. Liberal commentators have predicted that Harris will “dismantle” and “absolutely destroy” the more soft-spoken Mike Pence, though Trump told Fox News host Sean Hannity on Tuesday, “Mike [Pence] will handle her easily,” adding “Mike is a pro.”