Why Kamala Harris Was Chosen as Biden’s Running Mate Despite Being a Democrat from a Safe State
Bidens's decision to choose Kamala Harris as his running mate for the 2020 election has been a topic of much debate among political analysts and voters. Despite being a Democrat from a safe state, Harris's selection has been seen as strategic and multi-dimensional, guided by several political and personal elements. Let's delve into the reasons behind this choice.
Strategic Political Play: Assassination Insurance
One of the primary motivations behind Harris's selection as Biden's running mate was the so-called "assassination insurance." This concept effectively refers to the addition of a prominent and capable deputy to a presidential ticket for the added protection of the presidential nominee. With his extensive political experience and national prominence, Harris provided Biden with a strong counterbalance and enhanced security measures during the campaign and beyond.
Electoral Strategy: Fulfilling a Pledge and Pleading for Electoral Support
Biden promised to choose a woman of color during the campaign, a pledge that was a key element in securing the support of influential African American Democrats. By selecting Kamala Harris, Biden addressed a crucial demographic that could have been lost to the opposing side. Furthermore, Harris’s involvement served as a symbol of inclusivity and diversity, resonating with a broad voter base.
Moreover, Harris, being the first Black and South Asian woman elected to the U.S. Senate, was seen as an additional asset in fulfilling the minority representation that the Democratic Party aimed to achieve. This strategic move not only bolstered Biden's campaign but also appealed to the demographic shift towards more progressive and inclusive politics.
The Role of Black Democrats and Melanin: A Fa?ade of Inclusivity?
While Harris’s selection was framed as a step towards inclusivity, it has been criticized for being more of a symbolic gesture than a practical one. Some argue that her qualifications were not the primary factor, and instead, her melanin and genitalia played a significant role in securing the position for the Democratic Party. This is not merely a racial or gendered oversimplification but a reflection of the complex political dynamics at play.
For instance, during her tenure as the Attorney General of California and her time in the Senate, many of her staff exited due to issues with management. These revelations suggest that while Harris was a prominent figure, her leadership style and qualifications were not as shining as they might seem.
Bidens's Managerial Implications: A Weak Apparatchik?
Adding to the skepticism around Harris's selection is the underlying implication that she might be less qualified or less capable than Biden. Observers note that Biden's team played a pivotal role in securing her as the vice-presidential nominee. This strategic decision was a result of a perceived need for a figure who could fulfill the role of "assassination insurance" and provide support in intimidating and managing hostile situations during the campaign.
It is noteworthy that Harris's history as a lawyer does not necessarily translate to political acumen or campaign management skills. By contrast, Biden’s experience as a seasoned politician and negotiator ensured that the team was able to find a figure that met the necessary criteria without overstepping or competing with Biden.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kamala Harris's selection as Biden's running mate was a multifaceted decision influenced by strategic political considerations, including electoral tactics, symbolism, and the need for protection and support during the campaign. Despite being a Democrat from a safe state, Harris's appointment served a broader purpose in bolstering the Democratic coalition and presenting a more inclusive and diverse political image.
Regardless of the underlying motivations, Biden's choice of Harris as his running mate has had far-reaching implications for the 2020 election and beyond, highlighting the intricate dance of politics and personal alliances that shapes the outcome of American elections.