Kamala Harris shares candid insights on Biden, Buttigieg, and Trump in her first interview about her memoir ‘107 Days.’ Read the highlights now.
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Takeaways from Kamala Harris’ First Interview on Her New Book 107 Days
Vice President Kamala Harris sat down for her first television interview to discuss her new memoir, 107 Days. In the conversation, Harris opened up about her reflections on Joe Biden’s reelection bid, her decision-making process for choosing a running mate, and her views on key Democratic figures. The discussion, hosted by MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow, shed light on some of the most talked-about passages in her book.
Harris on Biden’s Reelection Push
One of the most striking moments in her memoir revolves around President Biden’s decision to seek reelection. Harris admitted that she wrestled with how much she should have intervened.
She acknowledged that while she believed Biden’s decision carried significant risks, she hesitated to voice concerns directly, fearing it would be seen as self-serving during a critical election period.
Why She Passed on Buttigieg as Running Mate
Another topic that drew attention was Harris’ explanation for not selecting former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg as her running mate.
Although she described Buttigieg as her first choice and praised him as a “phenomenal public servant,” Harris admitted that the political climate made her cautious. She reflected that, with limited time before the election, she worried that asking voters to embrace both a Black woman president and a gay vice president might have been perceived as too much of a gamble.
Buttigieg later responded, suggesting that voters ultimately judge leaders by policies and results rather than identity.
A Measured Endorsement of Zohran Mamdani
Harris was also asked about Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic nominee for New York City mayor. While many senior Democrats have hesitated to support him, Harris offered a careful endorsement, saying she would support the Democratic candidate in the race.
At the same time, she stressed that the party should recognize rising leaders across the nation, citing figures like Barbara Drummond in Alabama and Helena Moreno in New Orleans.
Taking Aim at Trump
Throughout the interview, Harris did not hold back in her criticism of Donald Trump, labeling him a “tyrant” and warning that his leadership poses a serious threat to democracy. She urged business leaders and institutions to push back against what she described as anti-democratic behavior.
She also weighed in on the controversy surrounding comedian Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension, pointing to it as evidence of the public’s power to influence corporate and media decisions.
Harris on Her Political Future
Looking ahead, Harris ruled out a run for California governor and downplayed speculation about another presidential campaign in 2028.
Instead, she expressed support for California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s push for a referendum to counter Texas’ redistricting strategy, arguing that Democrats should be prepared to “fight fire with fire.”
🤔 FAQs about Kamala Harris’ Interview on 107 Days
Q1. What is Kamala Harris’ new book 107 Days about?
It’s a memoir detailing her journey after Joe Biden stepped aside, her campaign challenges, and the process of building her ticket.
Q2. Why didn’t Kamala Harris choose Pete Buttigieg as her running mate?
Harris said she admired Buttigieg but feared that asking voters to accept both a Black woman president and a gay vice president in a short campaign window was politically risky.
Q3. Did Kamala Harris endorse Zohran Mamdani?
She offered cautious support, stating she would back the Democratic nominee but highlighted other rising Democratic leaders nationwide.
Q4. How did Kamala Harris describe Donald Trump?
Harris repeatedly referred to Trump as a “tyrant” and urged institutions to resist what she sees as his anti-democratic actions.
Q5. Is Kamala Harris planning to run for president in 2028?
No. Harris stated that a 2028 presidential bid is not her focus right now.
📝 Conclusion
Kamala Harris’ first interview on her memoir 107 Days offered an unfiltered look into her political mindset during one of the most turbulent chapters in American politics. From her reflections on Biden’s reelection bid to her candid thoughts on Buttigieg and Trump, Harris’ remarks highlight both the challenges and calculations that shaped her decisions.
As the Democratic Party looks toward the future, Harris’ insights will likely fuel conversations about leadership, strategy, and the road to 2028.