Vice President Kamala Harris is navigating the fallout from President Joe Biden's controversial comments, where he seemingly referred to Donald Trump's supporters as "garbage." The remarks, made just days before the election, have sparked frustration within the Democratic Party and prompted Harris to distance herself from the statement.
Speaking at Joint Base Andrews, Harris made it clear that she "strongly disagrees" with any criticism of individuals based on their political choices. "I believe that the work I do is about representing all people, whether they support me or not," Harris emphasized. This response came as the vice president was pressed on whether she had discussed the president's remarks with him during a phone call on Tuesday. Harris confirmed the conversation but noted the comment did not come up.
Biden's remarks, delivered during a Voto Latino event, referred to a crude joke about Puerto Rico made by a comedian at Trump's rally. Biden responded by criticizing the rhetoric, stating that "the only garbage I see floating out there is his supporters." While he later clarified that he was referring to the hateful speech at the event and not Trump's base broadly, the damage was done.
Harris, who has been campaigning on a platform of unity, stressed that her goal is to represent all Americans, including those who may not support her. She reiterated, "When elected president, I will represent all Americans." This messaging stands in contrast to Biden's off-the-cuff remarks, which have become a point of concern for Democratic insiders.
The comment triggered immediate backlash from Republicans, who accused Biden of looking down on Trump's supporters. Former President Trump's campaign seized the moment, amplifying the statement to rally his base. During a rally in Pennsylvania, Trump capitalized on Biden's words, with Senator Marco Rubio joining in, calling it an insult to "everyday Americans who love their country."
Biden's clarification on social media did little to quell the controversy. He reiterated that his comments were directed at the rhetoric from Trump's rally, labeling it "unconscionable." Despite this attempt to walk back the statement, the reaction within Democratic circles has been one of quiet frustration. Many campaign aides are concerned that Biden's comments have become an unnecessary distraction at a critical moment.
Harris' campaign has worked to distance itself from the controversy, with key figures reiterating that the vice president's message remains one of inclusivity. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Harris' running mate, defended Biden by framing the comments as a response to Trump's divisive rhetoric. "President Biden was very clear that he's speaking about the rhetoric we heard," Walz explained, rejecting claims that the comment undermined the unity message.
Yet, the internal anxiety remains palpable. Democratic strategists have expressed concern that Biden's occasional gaffes, like the recent "garbage" comment, detract from Harris' efforts to appeal to a wide base, including disillusioned Republicans. The Democratic ticket has made significant strides in courting voters who previously supported Trump, often showcasing Republicans who have shifted their support to Harris.
