Jeff Daniels mourns Kamala Harris's election loss and compares her to Lincoln

In July 2024, during an interview with MSNBC's Nicolle Wallace, actor Jeff Daniels discussed his sentiments regarding the 2024 presidential election, specifically reflecting on the campaign of former Vice President Kamala Harris. He expressed his belief that Harris would have made an effective president, citing her potential to govern similarly to Abraham Lincoln. Daniels noted that Harris's strategy might have embraced the concept of a 'Team of Rivals,' a term made famous by Doris Kearns Goodwin's book about Lincoln’s cabinet, which was comprised of individuals who held conflicting views—thus fostering a more inclusive and collaborative governing approach. Throughout the conversation, Daniels lamented the political landscape, especially the decline he perceives in the Republican Party under the influence of former President Donald Trump. He recalled how the principles of decency, civility, and respect for the law have become overshadowed in public discourse. Daniels specifically mentioned Liz Cheney, a prominent Republican critic of Trump, suggesting she would have been an ideal fit for the position of Secretary of State in a Harris administration. This reinforces Daniels's view that Harris’s presidency would have aimed for bipartisan collaboration similar to Lincoln’s approach. Daniels articulated his concerns regarding the direction of American politics, expressing that the Republican Party's deterioration was evident, particularly with the actions of political figures such as Mitch McConnell. He referenced McConnell’s judicial appointments over the past 25 years as a harbinger of a changing America, one that would require new leadership to meet evolving social expectations of equality and respect. Daniels emphasized that the nation was ready for a substantial shift toward inclusivity and compassion in governance, akin to the values promoted by Lincoln. Through this discussion, Daniels not only highlighted his admiration for Harris as a candidate but also infused his critique of the current political environment with a sense of urgency for a return to principled leadership and respect for diverse voices in politics. His reflections invite deeper discussions on the potential for bipartisan cooperation in future governance and the necessary steps needed to heal the political divides that have intensified in recent years.