Vice President Kamala Harris is on track to make history in the upcoming November election as she aims to become the first female president and the first woman of color to hold the highest office in the United States. Despite the potential groundbreaking nature of her candidacy, Harris has chosen not to focus on identity politics, preferring to concentrate on the issues that matter most to the American public.
Only a week into her presidential campaign, Harris faced unexpected commentary from her opponent, former President Donald Trump, who claimed during an interview that Harris “happened to turn Black.” This comment sparked controversy at the National Association of Black Journalists conference, and Trump later attempted to clarify his statements during a presidential debate.
In response, Harris highlighted the tragedy of using race as a divisive tool in politics. “I think it’s a tragedy that we have someone who wants to be president who has consistently attempted to use race to divide the American people,” she remarked.
Harris sidesteps identity questions
Throughout her political career, Harris has consistently avoided centering her campaigns on her race or gender. In a recent interview, she was asked about a viral photo of her grand-niece watching her accept the Democratic nomination. While many interpreted the image as a sign of Harris’s historic potential, she refrained from addressing the implications directly.
“I am running because I believe that I am the best person to do this job at this moment for all Americans, regardless of race and gender,” Harris stated, emphasizing her intention to shift the focus back to policy and governance.
Harris, focusing on issues over identity
Harris’s allies view Trump’s comments as an attempt to push her into a discussion focused on identity politics rather than substantive issues that impact voters. “Trump is trying to talk about identity politics instead of the issues that really matter,” said a political strategist familiar with Harris’s campaign strategy.
While her racial and ethnic identity is apparent, Harris’s supporters believe voters want concrete policies that demonstrate how she will improve their lives.
A shift from past strategies
The approach taken by Harris marks a notable departure from previous campaigns, such as Hillary Clinton’s, which leaned into gender in hopes of motivating Democratic voters. Clinton made historical narratives a centerpiece of her campaign, often discussing the progress of women in politics.
In contrast, Harris’s decision to avoid such discussions is strategic, as she aims to focus on what she can deliver for the people rather than solely her identity. The objective is to shift the conversation back to addressing pressing issues like healthcare, economy, and social justice—fundamental matters for the electorate.
Looking ahead
As the election date approaches, Harris’s campaign is expected to remain focused on issues rather than personal identity, a tactic that experts believe will resonate better with voters looking for answers about their futures. “The more women that run and succeed, the more we can move discussions away from identity and towards actionable plans for America,” noted one political analyst.
In summary, Harris stands ready to lead a campaign that prioritizes policies over personal identity, a strategy that aims to position her as not just a candidate for historical change but as a leader capable of addressing the needs of all Americans.
