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Today, Explained

What kind of Democrat should Kamala Harris be?

Aug 20, 2024
27:38
Snipd AI
Jonathan Chait, a political commentator from New York magazine, explores Kamala Harris's role in the Democratic Party. He argues for her to adopt Barack Obama's leadership style, citing its appeal and effectiveness. The discussion contrasts Obama's legacy with Joe Biden's presidency, highlighting the challenges Harris faces as she navigates evolving party ideologies. Chait analyzes how Harris's past as a tough-on-crime prosecutor could influence her alignment with contemporary democratic values and the expectations of voters.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Kamala Harris should consider adopting Barack Obama's governance style to effectively resonate with both party elites and the broader Democratic electorate.
  • The importance of concrete policy positions remains crucial in elections, as voters increasingly evaluate candidates based on their policy implications amid rising political polarization.

Deep dives

The Biden and Obama Legacy Debate

The perception of Barack Obama's presidency within the Democratic Party has significantly shaped current political discussions, as many influential figures now view it as a disappointment. This has led to a contrasting narrative where some party members feel that Obama did not achieve enough, despite his numerous significant policy accomplishments such as the Affordable Care Act and economic recovery measures. In particular, the debate revolves around whether Kamala Harris should follow an Obama-style approach to governance or align more closely with the critiques of his administration propagated by some party elites. The ongoing conversation highlights the disconnect between elite opinions and the broader Democratic voter base, who continue to recognize and celebrate Obama's achievements.

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