I've followed with an avid interest the ins and outs of the Democratic Party as somewhat of a political junkie. With that number of committed delegates putting her over the top, this news that Kamala Harris has become the Democratic nominee for president is a game-changer. Finally, a woman of color in this central position, and I can't wait to watch her battle it out with Trump during the general election.
Always, my focus is on the challenges of top women in politics.
It is simply astounding that the U.S. has never had a female president. But when you look at states like Michigan, where women are in control of the top political positions, these are things I derive hope from as they are changing.
I quite like how Harris balances strength and compassion. I've watched her in various debates and interviews, and the way she communicates with people directly reminds me of some successful female politicians, such as Gretchen Whitmer. That skill, in my estimation, bodes well for the campaign trail.
The abortion issue is going to loom large in this election, and I think Harris can capitalize on it. She would be able to talk about it from a woman's vantage point, and that would resonate with voters who are concerned about reproductive rights. I find in such cases, where she brings up the sensitive subject of abortion, that these instances seem more personal and genuine in comparison to male political counterparts.
That being said, now I am really getting worried about the attacks Harris would receive. The sexism and racism such female politicians of color would face is abhorrent and brutal. I have seen this scenario many times, opponents trying to pull women in power down just by belittling their character, using their looks or personal affairs. It angers me that in 2024, we are still dealing with this, but I guess old habits die hard.
One thing that gives me pause is Harris's history as a prosecutor. I understand that some of the more progressive voters are skeptical of her because of this, so I sort of have an understanding. However, I also believe her law enforcement experience could really be an asset when it comes to talking about crime and public safety in an election; for these reasons, it's always an issue in any presidential election.
"I do find it incredibly encouraging, the current enthusiasm from most Black and South-Asian voters toward Harris," she said. "Representation matters, and having somebody in the White House that really is more reflective of the diversity of America could be truly transformative. I also at the same time am trying to keep my expectations in check. The road to the presidency is long and difficult, especially for a candidate breaking new ground."
I am really curious to see how Harris handles debates with Trump.
His aggressive style and tendency to make personal attacks could prove quite challenging. If, however, she sticks to the issues and does not get drawn into mudslinging, I think she stands a real chance to win over those truly undecided.
I'm looking forward to watching how Harris is going to address the key issues that will arise during the campaign, whether the economy, healthcare, or foreign policy. Those are areas she needs to show leadership and vision in order to convince skeptics and generate excitement among the Democratic base.
In the end, it will be a choice voters make based on whether they are really prepared for change. Harris is a representative of the new kind of leadership sweeping world capitals, which could give new momentum to this historic candidacy if ignited again. But she faces off with a formidable opponent appealing to an energized base.