Democrats are divided over whether former Vice President Kamala Harris has strengthened her standing since losing the 2024 presidential election, according to reporting cited by Fox News.
The debate was highlighted in a Politico report based on interviews with nearly 20 California Democratic donors and strategists. Some questioned whether Harris has offered a clear break from her previous campaign. Strategist Doug Herman and former South Carolina Gov. Jim Hodges were among those quoted expressing doubts about her activity and distinctiveness.
Maria Cardona, a longtime Democratic strategist and outside adviser to Harris, rejected that criticism in comments to Fox News Digital. She pointed to proposals Harris has discussed, including expanding the Supreme Court, lowering the voting age to 16, and making Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico states. Cardona also argued Harris has devoted her public appearances to supporting Democrats in the midterm elections rather than promoting herself.
Harris has traveled to promote her campaign memoir, “107 Days,” and to campaign for Democratic candidates. The source reports that some Democratic nominees in Republican-leaning states have asked her not to campaign with them, while she has appeared with other candidates.
Other Democratic voices cited by Fox News offered differing assessments. An unnamed consultant said voters may still associate Harris with her 2024 defeat, while strategist Michael Ceraso questioned whether political consultants accurately gauge voters’ views. He also cited Joe Biden’s eventual success after multiple presidential campaigns as a reason Harris could consider running again.
Harris has not, in the supplied reporting, announced a 2028 campaign. Any bid would take place amid a potentially competitive Democratic primary and lingering debate within the party over its direction after 2024.
