The vice president has neutralised her critics while making a case for Biden with young, Black and female voters.
Kamala Harris has gained an unexpected ally. Kayleigh McEnany, who served as Donald Trump’s White House press secretary, recently praised Harris’s performance on the 17 January episode of The View, ABC’s morning talk show. McEnany acknowledged that Harris, while a polarizing figure for many, has an undeniable power among young women, a key demographic for the Democratic Party. McEnany suggested that Harris had benefited from significant media training, allowing her to better connect with her audience and present herself effectively across multiple voter segments.
McEnany identified three main groups that Harris was addressing in her appearance: progressives, young people, and women. During her time on The View, Harris spoke passionately about the Israel-Gaza conflict, a topic that resonates with many in the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. She also made an effort to appeal to younger voters, with a direct expression of affection for Generation Z, stating, “I love Gen Z.” Additionally, Harris used the platform to reinforce her support for women’s rights, notably pivoting the conversation back to abortion even when asked about the ongoing legal troubles facing former President Trump.
This strategic and thoughtful approach has raised questions about whether Harris could be on the brink of a political revival, often referred to as a Kamalaissance. In recent months, several liberal media outlets have worked to reframe her public image, attempting to portray her as a more competent and strategic figure. McEnany’s praise, however, marks a turning point—this is the first time a former Trump official has acknowledged Harris’s political effectiveness in such glowing terms.
The Kamalaissance could have significant implications for the 2024 election. Harris’s rising profile comes at a time when she has been playing an increasingly visible role in supporting President Biden’s re-election campaign, particularly in areas where his support among young, Black, and female voters is vital. Her push for reproductive rights, in particular, comes as many in the Democratic base are focused on the ongoing battle to preserve abortion access, especially following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade in 2022.
On 22 January, Harris launched a reproductive rights tour to commemorate the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, an event that has only gained more significance in light of the 2022 Supreme Court decision. The tour is seen as a direct attempt to solidify her standing among voters who view abortion rights as a critical issue. Harris’s emphasis on the need to protect reproductive freedoms could help energize the Democratic base, particularly in swing states where abortion access is a contentious issue.
Despite this new focus on her political revival, Harris continues to face scrutiny from both the left and the right. Her political future may depend on whether she can continue to build a connection with younger, more progressive voters, while also appealing to more moderate constituencies within the Democratic Party. If she can balance these dynamics and maintain her visibility, Harris might emerge as a key figure in the 2024 election cycle, strengthening Biden’s chances for re-election.
Still, it remains to be seen whether Harris can fully overcome the criticism that has followed her since her tenure as vice president began. Her approval ratings have fluctuated, and while her presence in the campaign is growing, it will take more than a media tour to solidify her political standing. Nonetheless, the attention she is now receiving suggests that a Kamalaissance—however improbable it once seemed—might be within reach.
