Bret Stephens critiques Kamala Harris’s press engagement in New York Times

Bret Stephens, a columnist for the New York Times, expressed skepticism about Vice President Kamala Harris's ability to engage with serious policy questions. In his opinion piece, he highlighted her lack of specific answers regarding critical issues such as American support for Ukraine, the creation of a Palestinian state, and the housing crisis. He criticized her recent interviews for being superficial and lacking depth, suggesting that she has not effectively communicated her thoughts on these pressing matters. Stephens pointed out that Harris has not held an official press conference since becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee, raising concerns about her transparency and willingness to confront difficult questions. He emphasized that voters are looking for more than just a response that frames former President Trump as an existential threat; they want to understand her qualifications and vision for the future. The columnist argued that Harris must demonstrate her capability to provide detailed answers to urgent policy questions and articulate a genuine politics of inclusion. He noted that the perception of her as unserious could hinder her support among disaffected voters who feel alienated by elite perspectives. Ultimately, Stephens concluded that Harris needs to step up her engagement with the press and the public to dispel doubts about her qualifications and to connect with a broader audience. Without this effort, her campaign may struggle to gain the trust and support necessary for success in the upcoming election.