5 Insights from Harris and Walz’s First Joint Campaign Interview

On a noteworthy Thursday, Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz participated in their first joint interview since President Joe Biden exited the presidential race. The event marked a significant moment for Harris, who has faced criticism for her limited interactions with the press since announcing her own campaign in late July.

The CNN interview, conducted by Dana Bash, spanned approximately 45 minutes and covered a range of key topics. Here are the main highlights from their conversation.

First, Harris discussed her evolving policy perspectives. She faced scrutiny regarding her progressive stances during her 2020 campaign, particularly on climate change, immigration, and healthcare. Bash inquired about Harris’ earlier support for the Green New Deal and her 2019 proposal to ban fracking. In response, Harris reaffirmed her stance: “In 2020, I made very clear where I stand. We are in 2024, and I’ve not changed that position, nor will I going forward. I kept my word, and I will keep my word.”

Harris attributed her more recent views to the positive effects of the Inflation Reduction Act, stating, “What I have seen is that we can grow, and we can increase a thriving clean-energy economy without banning fracking.” Additionally, she addressed her previous call to decriminalize the border and highlighted her commitment to reviving bipartisan efforts that had stalled earlier in the year.

In a surprising moment, Harris expressed her willingness to appoint a Republican to her cabinet. She mentioned the importance of incorporating diverse viewpoints into significant decision-making processes. “I think it would be to the benefit of the American public to have a member of my Cabinet who was a Republican,” she asserted. Although no Republicans currently serve in Joe Biden’s Cabinet, past presidents like Barack Obama and George W. Bush have included members from the opposing party in their administrations.

Moving on to his own challenges, Walz faced inquiries concerning his military service and remarks that conflated in vitro fertilization (IVF) with intrauterine insemination (IUI). Bash pointed out a 2018 statement where Walz suggested he carried weapons in combat, despite never being deployed. Walz characterized himself as candid yet passionate, noting, “I speak like they do. I speak candidly. I wear my emotions on my sleeves.”

Regarding the confusion over fertility treatments, Walz acknowledged the distinction between IVF and IUI, representing different methods of conception. He conveyed that most Americans likely understand the nuances related to these treatments but emphasized the broader implications of abortion laws. “I don’t think they’re cutting hairs on IVF or IUI, I think what they’re cutting hairs on is an abortion ban,” he stated.

Amid growing calls for a shift in U.S. policy towards Israel among pro-Palestinian advocates, Harris maintained that there would be no changes in the overall approach. She underscored her support for a deal involving the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza, which aligns with the Biden administration’s current position. While she echoed Biden’s supportive stance towards Israel, she also highlighted the humanitarian concerns regarding Palestinian casualties. “Israel had a right — has a right to defend itself,” Harris remarked, but quickly added, “How it does so matters. Far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.”

Lastly, Harris recounted the moment Biden informed her he was dropping out of the race. She revealed that she was puzzling with her grandnieces when the call came in. “He told me what he had decided to do,” she recalled. When she asked Biden if he was sure, he confirmed his decision, saying, “Yes.” Harris emphasized her initial concern was for Biden’s well-being rather than her own campaign, reflecting a strong loyalty to the former president in a time of transition.

Overall, the interview highlighted critical themes of evolving policies, diverse representation, and personal integrity as Harris and Walz prepare for their respective political journeys.

Source: Business Insider