Kamala Harris Defends Consistent Values Amid Policy Shifts in First Major Interview as Democratic Nominee

 

In her first major interview since becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, Kamala Harris reaffirmed that her core values remain unchanged, despite questions about shifts in her policy stances on issues such as fracking and immigration. Speaking with CNN’s Dana Bash, Harris emphasized that she would govern for all Americans if elected and even promised to include a Republican in her cabinet.

When asked about changes in her policy positions, particularly regarding fracking, Harris maintained that her values have always been consistent. “The most important and most significant aspect of my policy perspective and decisions is my values have not changed,” she said, addressing previous comments she made in 2019 about banning fracking, a stance she no longer supports. She reiterated her commitment to tackling the climate crisis, emphasizing the importance of setting deadlines and accountability measures.

Harris, joined by her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, also defended her approach to border security, clarifying that her values on the issue have remained steadfast despite shifts in her stance on decriminalizing illegal border crossings. Reflecting on her experience as California’s Attorney General, Harris stated, “My value around what we need to do to secure our border has not changed.”

The interview comes at a critical moment in Harris’s campaign, as she faces scrutiny over her evolving policy positions and her perceived reluctance to engage with the media. Harris’s media appearances have been limited since she replaced Joe Biden as the Democratic nominee in July, leading some critics to question her ability to handle tough questioning.

Republicans have mocked the terms of her CNN interview, arguing that Harris’s decision to appear alongside Walz reflects a reluctance to face tough questioning alone. Abigail Jackson, communications director for Senator Josh Hawley, tweeted, “Kamala needs to do a live, unedited, solo press conference. She wants to be commander-in-chief and she’s too scared to do an interview without Tim Walz by her side?”

Despite criticism, Harris’s interview is seen as a key moment to establish her credibility and address concerns about her evolving positions on key policy issues. It also highlights her strategy to win over voters in Georgia, a crucial swing state, where the interview was conducted during a two-day campaign stop in Savannah.

The appearance comes amid increasing media engagements from her Republican rival, Donald Trump, who has used his recent interviews to criticize Harris. The former president has accused her of avoiding media scrutiny and has called for Harris to be more transparent about her policies.

Harris’s performance in the CNN interview will likely shape perceptions of her readiness to lead as she continues to campaign in the final months before the November election.