Thomas O. Falk

Opinion | Here’s why Kamala Harris can beat Donald Trump

With her ability to mobilise young people, minorities and women, Harris has key advantages that can help win over the electorate in November

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Thomas O. Falk

Published: 8:30pm, 25 Jul 2024Updated: 1:42am, 26 Jul 2024

In the ever-shifting landscape of American politics, 2024 is shaping up to be a year of extraordinary significance – yet again. US President Joe Biden’s campaign exit means Vice-President Kamala Harris is set to step into the role of the Democratic presidential nominee, a terrain fraught with peril but also potential.

While polls suggest a daunting challenge ahead, with Harris trailing former president Donald Trump by 1.5 points as of late last week, her path to victory is not entirely foreclosed. Through a combination of strategic positioning and a resonant message, she can still emerge victorious.

In 2020, Harris’ first presidential campaign never took off. Rather, it was marred by internal disarray and an apparent inability to connect with voters, particularly the party’s progressive wing. Critics rightfully highlighted her inconsistent messaging and lack of readiness for prime time. Memories of certain performances remain vivid, along with her inability to defend her record as California’s attorney general.

But every job comes with a learning curve. It seems intellectually dishonest to say that 3½ years as the nation’s No 2 have not shaped Harris, a highly educated and successful woman, and turned her into a more complete politician.

Naysayers will argue that her tenure doesn’t support this argument. However, one should not forget that the vice-presidency does not lend itself to standing out or even stepping out of the president’s shadow. The gap between the vice-presidential role and its responsibilities has always been immense. Nelson Rockefeller, when asked about his duties as vice-president, replied: “I go to funerals. I go to earthquakes.”

Now, Harris will step into the limelight, which must be an upgrade over Biden, and thus increase the Democrats’ chances of keeping Trump out of the Oval Office. Updated polls for the battleground states have yet to be published, but Trump has been comfortably leading in most by 5–7 points. However, polling is not destiny. The fluidity of public opinion, especially in the volatile environment of an election year, means that these numbers will shift – not least because it is a new day in Washington.