GOP Strategizes New Attack Plan For Kamala
In a recent House Republican meeting, party leaders instructed their colleagues to avoid focusing on Vice President Kamala Harris’ race and gender. Instead, they emphasized the importance of scrutinizing her policy record and performance in office. This directive followed controversy sparked by Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee, who criticized Harris as a “DEI candidate” after President Joe Biden withdrew from the presidential race and Harris became the leading Democratic contender. Burchett’s comments implied that the media’s support for Biden and Harris was driven by diversity and inclusion initiatives rather than merit.
Burchett’s remarks, which he shared on social media, led to a backlash. He suggested that the media was promoting Harris not because of her qualifications, but because of her background, which aligns with DEI principles. Although Burchett later expressed regret for his comments, he maintained that they reflected his views on the influence of DEI policies in politics.
Rep. Glenn Grothman from Wisconsin also implied that Harris’ candidacy was primarily influenced by her ethnic background, rather than her qualifications or achievements. However, many Republicans are choosing to focus their criticisms on Harris’ actions and decisions in office, such as her approach to border security and her absence during a key address by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana underscored that the Republican strategy should center on evaluating Harris’ policies and effectiveness rather than her personal characteristics. He argued that the debate should focus on the competencies of the presidential candidates and their proposed solutions for the country’s issues, rather than getting sidetracked by discussions of race and gender.
An anonymous House Republican also criticized the focus on DEI, suggesting that it diverted attention from more relevant policy discussions. They implied that the party should concentrate on the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates’ records instead.
Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy of California dismissed the notion of labeling Harris as a “DEI candidate” as counterproductive. He argued that regardless of one’s stance on DEI, it’s more constructive to critique Harris based on her performance and experience.
Rep. Dusty Johnson from South Dakota, who leads the Main Street Caucus, echoed the sentiment that Republicans should concentrate on Harris’ vice-presidential record rather than making personal attacks. The overall Republican strategy aims to highlight policy differences and leadership qualities to make a compelling case for their own candidates in the upcoming elections.
