|
Listen To This Story
 |
Since President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the presidential race, Democrats have been riding a roller coaster of feelings. Surprise and relief came at last following the staggering groundswell of support for the fledgling Harris campaign. The delegate endorsements, the $310 million haul in contributions, the Zoom-breaking attendance for campaign organizing calls by activist groups of all types, the massive increase in volunteer sign-ups, and the shift in media focus have all led to feelings of hope and expectations of success among previously demoralized voters. Democrats are ready and eager to support the party nominee. But it would be a bonus for the party to actually fight for continuing Biden-style policy wins.
America is getting to know Kamala Harris. Democrats want so badly for Harris to perform well and they’re looking for inspiration. Democrats remember the good and the bad from the Obama years. Many are hoping for Harris to carry on the Biden record of legislative victories and avoid some of the corporatism and stifling caution of the Obama years. If Harris picks Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, or Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly as her vice presidential candidate, that might signal more of an Obama path. If she picks Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, or Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, that may indicate more of an affinity for the Biden approach.
The campaign will test Harris on every level. High expectations will inevitably run into headwinds and mistakes. I suspect Democrats will be forgiving. They want to defeat Trump. They don’t know how she will do, but so far so good. Harris has developed a successful speaking style that is both reassuring and inspiring. She knows when to let the crowds enjoy their reactions. She is upbeat and delivers her attack lines and policy prescriptions with humor and grace. Perhaps this comes from the outlook on life she learned at her mother’s knee in her happy multicultural family.
While you’re here enjoying DonkeyHotey’s latest cartoon, please take a moment to read these articles on related topics:
- Trump Doubles Down on the Non-Existence of Biracial People
- Trump Only Wants to Debate Harris in the Loving Embrace of Fox News
- Other DonkeyHotey cartoons
