Jennifer Palmieri, a veteran of Democratic politics who was a communications director for both the Clinton Administration and the Obama White House, discusses Kamala Harris's unique position as a female presidential candidate. She highlights the barriers women face, the need for Harris to showcase her accomplishments, and the evolving political dynamics since 2016. Palmieri emphasizes the importance of authenticity and emotion in campaigns, while also addressing identity politics and the significance of fundraising enthusiasm in Harris's strategy for success.
Kamala Harris must emphasize her achievements and qualifications to counteract common perceptions of women's accomplishments in politics.
Despite challenges related to gender and race, Harris's fundraising success and established political experience offer a strong foundation for her campaign.
Deep dives
The Dynamics of Biden's Withdrawal
Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the presidential race has significant implications for the Democratic Party, particularly for Kamala Harris, who is seen as the likely nominee. The discussion reveals that despite popular myths, President Obama did not heavily influence Biden's departure, as the roots of Biden's decision trace back to various misconceptions held by influential figures around him. Palmieri asserts that past advisers, who once doubted Biden's viability in previous elections, ultimately lost credibility in their advice. This intricate web of relationships and historical perspectives paints a complex picture of why Biden faced increasing pressure to step back from the campaign.
Pelosi's Critical Role
Nancy Pelosi's unique position within the Democratic hierarchy plays a crucial role in guiding Biden during pivotal moments. Her appearance on 'Morning Joe' highlighted her concern regarding Biden's decision to remain in the race, subtly signaling that a more favorable choice was necessary. Palmieri suggested that the efficacy of Pelosi's leadership stems from her long-standing credibility and personal rapport with Biden, making her the ideal messenger for delivering difficult truths. As various Democratic leaders indicated their stances through meetings and statements, it was Pelosi who was adjudged as the figure powerful enough to communicate the urgency of Biden's situation.
Challenges Ahead for Kamala Harris
Kamala Harris faces a daunting task as she steps into the national spotlight as the presumptive nominee, with lingering doubts about her polling performance. Despite concerns over her past with low favorability ratings, there is optimism due to a robust anti-Trump coalition and a desire for change among voters. The conversation emphasizes that Harris's political experience and abilities as a campaigner should not be underestimated, as she is equipped to handle the pressure of her new responsibilities. Furthermore, the anticipated challenges of gender and race perceptions in politics complicate her journey, but past experiences may serve as valuable lessons.
Navigating Party Dynamics and Voter Energy
The dynamics of funding and support in political campaigns are underscored by Harris's recent fundraising success, which indicates renewed enthusiasm among the base. This enthusiasm, reflected in significant financial contributions, is critical for sustaining political momentum, particularly against an opponent like Trump. Palmieri addresses how the historical trajectory of women in politics influences perception, noting that women's leadership is often scrutinized differently compared to their male counterparts. As Harris prepares for the general election, she must navigate both internal party dynamics and external criticisms while maintaining visible energy and direction to rally support among voters.
Kamala Harris will face barriers as a woman running for the Presidency. “Women constantly have to credential themselves,” Jennifer Palmieri, a veteran of Democratic politics who served in the Clinton Administration, says. She was also the director of communications for the Obama White House, and then for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 Presidential campaign. Harris will “need to remind people of what she has done in her career and what she’s done as Vice-President, because people assume that women haven’t accomplished anything.” But Harris also has notable strengths as a candidate, and—having avoided a bruising primary campaign and having been handed a torch from the incumbent—she has advantages that no other woman running for office has had. For a female candidate, the world has changed since 2016, Palmieri believes. She shares insights into how Joe Biden was finally persuaded to step out of the race, and explains what she meant by advising women to “nod less and cry more.”