Former US Vice-President Kamala Harris has voiced her concerns about her failure to persuade President Joe Biden not to seek re-election in 2024. In an interview with the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg, she admitted to reflecting on whether she should have had an open dialogue with Biden regarding his candidacy.
After months filled with speculation regarding Biden's health and cognitive abilities, he decided to withdraw from the race in July 2024 after an underwhelming performance against Donald Trump in a debate. Following his exit, Harris stepped in as the Democratic nominee but ultimately lost to Trump.
In her revealing book, '107 Days,' she expressed that Biden's choice to run again should not have been driven by personal ambition, hinting that they never discussed it directly. She questions the effectiveness of her potential conversation with him, suggesting it might have been perceived as self-serving.
Expressing her continued reflections on this decision, Harris admitted, 'I do reflect on whether I should have had a conversation with him, urging him not to run.' She also explained that her concerns centered more on the demanding nature of the election campaign rather than Biden's competence as president.
Harris highlighted the stark contrast between fulfilling presidential duties and the grueling challenges of a re-election campaign, particularly against a formidable opponent like Trump. Despite her reservations about Biden's capacity to endure the campaign, she struggled with the hesitation of being seen as self-interested if she had raised her concerns openly.
The debate surrounding Biden's decision to run again and the awareness of his fitness for the role has sparked discussion among political circles, especially regarding whether more voices in his inner circle should have expressed doubts.
In her ongoing promotion of her book in the UK, Harris indicated that she might pursue the presidency in the future, confirming that she is 'not done' with public service.
