5 Challenging Interview Questions Harris Might Encounter

Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, are preparing for their first joint interview since they ascended to the forefront of the Democratic ticket a month ago. The pair will be interviewed by CNN’s Dana Bash during a stop in Georgia, with the segment scheduled to air on the network and its platforms Thursday at 9 p.m. EDT.

While Harris has engaged with reporters on the campaign trail, there is growing anticipation for a significant media appearance where she can address critical questions about her tenure as vice president and her aspirations for potential presidential leadership. Here are several pressing questions she might encounter during the interview.

One pressing issue revolves around her management of border-related concerns. Harris’s early vice presidency faced challenges, particularly after President Biden designated her to address the root causes of migration at the U.S.-Mexico border. Critics have labeled her as the “border czar,” aiming to connect her leadership with the surge of migrants at the border.

A memorable moment came during a press conference in Mexico, where she advised migrants from Guatemala not to come to the United States. This statement received criticism from various sides, including progressive figures. Furthermore, during a contentious interview with NBC’s Lester Holt, Harris defended her choice not to visit the border, stating, “I haven’t been to Europe … I don’t … understand the point you’re making.”

In response to Republican critiques, Harris and Biden have worked to shift the narrative, blaming previous administration policies for hindering stronger bipartisan border agreements that were in the works.

Another significant area of inquiry will center on the economy, especially following the administration’s acknowledgment of being taken aback by rising inflation. With voters increasingly concerned about economic issues, Harris may need to outline how her economic strategies will differ from those of Biden, who continues to struggle with low approval ratings regarding his handling of the economy.

Despite Biden’s challenges, some economic indicators have improved since the pandemic, including the homeownership rate and increases in wages for the lowest earners. However, the administration faced scrutiny over its initial belief that post-pandemic inflation would be temporary, which proved to be inaccurate, leading to significant interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. This situation makes Harris’s positions on economic policy particularly critical.

Additionally, questions regarding President Biden’s approach to the Gaza situation will likely arise. His handling of the war following the October 7 attacks has created divisions within the Democratic Party, impacting his support among young voters and crucial states like Michigan, home to a large Arab American community.

Harris has shown some affinity for Palestinian issues but has also confirmed her commitment to U.S. military assistance to Israel. Her response to the conflict could be vital as she faces mounting pressure from Democratic voters and activists to take a more robust stance against the violence in Gaza.

Another potential point of contention stems from her past support for a fracking ban during her 2020 campaign. Harris has since indicated during her 2024 campaign that she would not pursue a ban on fracking, leading to criticism from progressive and environmentally focused voters. This shift may benefit her in Pennsylvania, a pivotal swing state and key natural gas producer.

Despite previous endorsements of a fracking ban, her recent position aligns more closely with the Biden administration’s stance, which has consistently opposed an outright prohibition on the practice. This topic may raise concerns about the potential economic ramifications of fracking bans among voters.

Finally, Harris’s previous support for “Medicare for All” during her 2020 presidential bid poses another imperative question. While this was a cornerstone of her campaign, she has not prioritized the issue in her current role as vice president. Harris’s pivot away from promoting a single-payer system, which could be attributed to the backlash she faced in her earlier campaign, may come into play. Critics have revived accusations against her that she still seeks to eliminate private insurance, despite her reassurances that she aims to minimize waste and bureaucracy in healthcare.

As the interview draws near, the questions surrounding Harris could shape the narrative of her campaign moving forward, especially in the context of her partnership with Governor Walz.

Source: Nexstar Media, Inc.