Two months after her electoral defeat by Donald Trump, Vice
President Kamala Harris will oversee the certification of her own loss. On
Monday, as President of the Senate, she will stand at the House Speaker's
rostrum to lead the counting of Electoral College votes, solidifying Trump's
return to the White House two weeks later. Despite the painful circumstances,
Harris’s aides emphasize her commitment to fulfilling her constitutional duties
with dignity.
This scenario isn’t unprecedented; both Al Gore in 2001 and
Richard Nixon in 1961 faced similar situations. Harris’s journey from serving
as the nation’s oldest president’s vice president to leading her party in an
improbable campaign underscores her resilience. Despite the initial hope her
campaign generated, her defeat has exposed significant rifts within the
Democratic Party.
Harris and her team are now contemplating her next steps,
including a potential run for the presidency in 2028 or a gubernatorial bid in
California. Historical parallels show that previous Democratic candidates like
Al Gore, John Kerry, and Hillary Clinton did not seek the presidency again
after a loss. However, Harris’s supporters believe her broad base and the
unique challenges of her campaign suggest she still has a path to the Oval
Office. They draw comparisons to Trump’s political journey, marked by both
defeats and comebacks.
While many Democrats don’t hold Harris solely responsible
for Trump’s victory, some are skeptical about her future prospects. Other
Democratic leaders with presidential ambitions, such as Governors Gretchen
Whitmer, JB Pritzker, and Gavin Newsom, are seen as fresh faces with
potentially stronger chances.
Harris remains undecided about her future, signaling
openness to various paths after the inauguration. She’s reflecting on the
intense campaign period that included selecting a running mate, leading a
convention, and nationwide campaigning within a short timeframe. As vice
president, she still has a role until January 20.
Donna Brazile, a close ally, notes that Harris must take
time to consider her next steps, pointing out the country's need for change and
suggesting that Harris could represent that change in the future. However,
separating herself from Joe Biden, under whose administration she served,
remains a critical challenge for any future campaign.
Harris’s supporters highlight her significant vote count
despite her loss, noting that her candidacy helped revitalize the Democratic
base and support key congressional races. However, critics point out her
struggles with key demographic groups and the challenges her campaign faced in
addressing major issues like the economy and immigration.
The Democratic primary for 2028 is expected to be
competitive, with rising stars already positioning themselves. Harris, however,
could leverage her national recognition, extensive network, and past campaign
experience to remain a formidable contender. Alternatively, she might step away
from the political arena, potentially running a foundation, working in a future
Democratic administration, or authoring another book.
In the meantime, Harris is planning an international trip,
aiming to maintain her global presence and legacy beyond her vice presidency.
Reflecting on her campaign, her team feels a sense of accomplishment despite
the loss, acknowledging the efforts and challenges faced in the three-month
sprint following Biden's withdrawal from the race.
As Harris contemplates her future, she remains committed to
public service, whether through another political campaign or other avenues
that allow her to continue contributing to the country and her party.
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