Vice President Kamala Harris provides a candid look into the complex dynamics of the Democratic Party in her memoir, “107 Days.” Following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race, she sought endorsements from prominent party figures, a move that revealed the competition and hesitancy within the ranks of top Democrats. In her book, she details a series of conversations with former presidents, governors, and party officials, illustrating a landscape filled with both support and caution.
Harris reflects on her immediate outreach after Biden’s departure on July 21, 2024. Some allies stepped forward quickly; former President Bill Clinton was among them. Clinton told her, “I’m relieved that Biden dropped out… Make this your own campaign.” His enthusiasm seemed genuine, indicating a desire to assist her as she pivoted to lead.
However, not everyone echoed that sentiment. Harris recounts her discussions with former President Barack Obama, who adopted a more measured tone. He advised her, “Saddle up! Joe did what I hoped he would do. But you have to earn it.” Obama made it clear that while he and Michelle were supportive, they wouldn’t immediately take sides, emphasizing the importance of allowing Biden his moment and contemplating timing carefully.
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi echoed this caution. During their exchange, she described her sadness over Biden’s situation. “It’s so tragic. My heart is broken. But now it’s you!” Pelosi highlighted the need for a proper nomination process, insisting it should include a primary instead of being merely an “anointment.” Her words underscored the value she places on a competitive atmosphere within the party.
Harris faced a challenging environment even from her peers in the state governors’ circle. Maryland’s Wes Moore acknowledged her loyalty but seemed hesitant to lend his full support, stating, “You’ve been loyal. I respect that.” In a similar vein, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker cited his position as the host of the Democratic National Convention, saying he couldn’t commit publicly. “As governor of Illinois, I’m the convention host. I can’t commit,” he shared. This lack of immediate endorsement from various governors demonstrates a reluctance among some party leaders to fully embrace Harris, likely influenced by their individual political calculations.
Senator Bernie Sanders’ advice also reflected a careful approach. He urged her to concentrate on broader issues impacting the working class rather than focusing predominantly on abortion. “I supported Joe because he was the strongest voice for the working class,” Sanders pointed out, subtly steering Harris back to the party’s foundational priorities.
The reactions from various Democrats present a stark contrast between enthusiasm and skepticism. While Harris received some full-throated endorsements, such as from North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, others withheld their support, indicating a strategic hesitation as they weighed the political landscape. Even California Governor Gavin Newsom seemed to distance himself, promising a return call that never materialized. “Hiking. Will call back. (He never did),” Harris noted, a phrase that captures both disappointment and the complexities of political relationships.
Despite these challenges, Harris’s memoir offers a glimpse into her determination to manage the chaotic situation with clarity. She entered each call acutely aware of the stakes. “Some people I called would offer me support and then ask, ‘What do you think the process should be?'” she recalled, highlighting moments where she pushed back against any suggestions of a mini-primary. “How much more time would it have taken to pull that off?” she questioned, demonstrating her insistence on a decisive and swift path forward.
The memoir also hints at a broader narrative within the Democratic Party as they rally around Harris in light of Biden’s exit. Several high-profile endorsements signal some party leaders are committed to her candidacy. Hillary Clinton’s eagerness to participate in Harris’s campaign, stating she would hop on an Amtrak train to lend her support, displays a conviction in Harris as a candidate. “We’re thrilled the president endorsed you. We’ll do whatever we can,” she declared, showcasing a sense of collaboration amongst some figures within the party.
As the 2024 election unfolds, Harris’s book provides insight into her emotional and strategic responses during a critical juncture. Yet, the lack of full endorsements from party heavy hitters illustrates the ongoing challenges she faces. The internal dialogue captured in “107 Days” places Harris at the intersection of ambition and allegiance, reflecting a party still grappling with its identity as it prepares for the general election against a formidable opponent in Donald Trump. This memoir not only chronicles her personal journey but also acts as a mirror reflecting the complexities of the Democratic establishment in pursuing unity ahead of a significant electoral battle.
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