Harris Defends Biden’s Leadership Amid Doubts Following Debate Performance
Vice President Kamala Harris defended President Joe Biden’s capability to lead the nation, stating firmly that she had no regrets about how she handled concerns that arose after Biden’s performance in a June debate, CBS News reports.
“No, not at all,” Harris replied when asked by CNN’s Dana Bash about the growing doubts regarding Biden’s abilities, Harris unequivocally.
On the international stage, Harris maintained the US policy toward Israel, reaffirming her commitment to the nation’s defense amid ongoing regional tensions stemming from the conflict.
“Let me be very clear,” she stated. “I am unequivocal and unwavering in my commitment to Israel’s defense and its ability to defend itself. And that’s not going to change.”
Harris reflected on the October 7 attacks by Hamas.
“As I said then, I say today — Israel has the right to defend itself. And how it does so matters. Far too many innocent Palestinians have been killed. And we have got to get a deal done,” she stressed, calling for a resolution to the ongoing violence.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz also faced scrutiny during the interview regarding his past remarks about military service. In a 2018 video, Walz spoke of “weapons of war that I carried in war,” despite not having faced combat during his time in the National Guard. Recently, a Harris-Walz campaign official clarified that Walz “misspoke” during that discussion.
“I said we were talking in this case, this was after a school shooting, the ideas of carrying these weapons of war,” Walz explained when asked about the statement. He further added, “I will never demean another member’s service in any way. I never have, and I never will.”
Despite being the presumptive nominee for president, Harris has faced ongoing criticism for her limited interactions with the media. For weeks, questions have arisen about when she would hold a news conference or give interviews, as she has focused primarily on the campaign trail with minimal engagement with reporters.
Harris also recounted the moment she learned of President Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race. During a family gathering on a Sunday, while doing a puzzle, she received a phone call from Biden. “And he told me what he had decided to do,” she said. When she inquired if he was sure about his decision, he confirmed it.
“And that’s how I learned about it,” Harris concluded, reflecting on a pivotal moment for her and the campaign.