The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell 'Stand up for our country': Rachel joins Lawrence to discuss her Kamala Harris interview
Sep 23, 2025
Rachel Maddow, renowned television host and political commentator, joins for an insightful discussion about her recent interview with Kamala Harris. She reveals Harris's reflections on her 2024 decisions and her thoughts on institutional critique from Maddow's new book. The conversation also touches on key campaign strategies and the tactical challenges Harris faces. Additionally, Maddow teases a documentary on Andrew Young, while exploring ongoing investigations into high-profile figures like Alex Acosta and Tom Homan, uncovering layers of political intrigue.
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Harris Owns Role In Reelection Reckoning
- Rachel Maddow says Harris includes herself in the "recklessness" over Biden's reelection decision and regrets not doing more.
- Harris critiques the team around Biden rather than Biden personally, per Maddow's account.
Casual Breakfast Sparked Her Ambition
- Lawrence O'Donnell recounts approaching Kamala Harris at breakfast shortly after her 2016 Senate win and urging her to run nationally.
- That throwaway remark helped seed her 2020 presidential run and eventual vice presidency.
Use Listening Tours To Test Viability
- Maddow notes Harris's 15-city book tour is structured for listening and gauging support before deciding on 2028.
- Use public listening tours to test political viability before committing to a campaign.
