Gabbard: Harris Should Not Be Underestimated on the Debate Stage

Tulsi Gabbard, the former Representative from Hawaii and 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, recently offered insights regarding Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of an upcoming debate with former President Donald Trump. Gabbard emphasized, “Harris is not to be underestimated,” highlighting her experience on the debate stage.

During an appearance on CNN’s “State of the Union,” Gabbard responded to the Harris campaign’s view of Trump as a “formidable opponent.” She affirmed that, given the distinct records of both candidates, the debate provides a significant opportunity for voters to assess their pasts in office.

“The records of President Trump and Vice President Harris are very different,” Gabbard noted. “This is an exceptional moment where we have two candidates who have held the highest offices in the nation.” She acknowledged Trump’s four years as president and Harris’s near four years serving as vice president under President Biden.

Recently, Gabbard publicly endorsed Trump’s 2024 presidential bid at a National Guard Association gathering in Michigan, where both she and Trump spoke. Her shift from the Democratic Party to supporting Trump marks a significant political transformation since her unsuccessful campaign in the 2020 primaries.

After leaving Congress, Gabbard distanced herself from the Democratic Party and has since engaged with conservative platforms and events like the Conservative Political Action Conference.

A notable highlight from her 2020 campaign was her pointed critique of Harris during a debate. Reflecting on that experience, Gabbard expressed her willingness to assist Trump by sharing insights about Harris’s past actions and how they contrast with her current campaign positions.

In her remarks, Gabbard pointed out, “I believe my experience on the debate stage in 2020 can be helpful. Harris has tried to distance herself from her past record, and it contradicts her current statements as the Democratic nominee.”

The Harris campaign, in response, defended the vice president against accusations of shifting stances on critical issues. They highlighted that Harris had already addressed these changes in her recent interviews and noted that Trump has also altered his views over time.

A memo from the Harris campaign stated, “On multiple issues, Trump has claimed one thing while acting differently.” It pointed to areas like child tax credits, in vitro fertilization, and marijuana legalization to illustrate their defense.

Furthermore, the campaign asserted, “Trump has a long, almost decade-long history as a candidate and president. Now, facing pressure, he is attempting to present himself as an entirely different candidate. However, voters will easily see through his attempts to erase his past and hold him accountable for inconsistent positions.”

As the debate draws near, the spotlight will be on how each candidate articulates their records and persuasive arguments. The contrasting backgrounds and policy positions of Trump and Harris are bound to generate heated discussions among voters.

With the election approaching, Gabbard’s endorsement of Trump indicates a deepening divide in the political landscape, revealing changing alliances and shifting narratives as candidates prepare for the challenges ahead.

As both candidates gear up for the debate, it becomes evident that Harris will bring her extensive experience to the conversation, while Trump aims to leverage his past presidency to appeal to voters. The outcome of this debate could be pivotal in shaping voter perceptions as the election nears.