The first time Kamala Harris ran for president, the result could generously be described as mediocre. Her campaign, NBC News reported when she dropped out in December 2019 before any votes had been cast, "began with an explosion of enthusiasm but fizzled quickly." Aside from a strong first debate performance — highlighted, ironically, by a clash with Joe Biden — Harris never broke out of the middle of the primary pack.
Memories of that failed bid hover over Harris as Democrats consider the possibility that Biden will abandon his attempt at re-election, leaving her the logical nominee of their party. Is she a strong enough campaigner to win a general election? Could she unite the party and win over independent voters? Would she be able to overcome the inevitable torrent of racism and misogyny headed her way?
Not long ago, many Democrats would have answered no to those questions. But this is, to put it mildly, a unique circumstance. In fact, this may be the perfect circumstance, if not the only one, for Harris to win a presidential election.
This is a preview of Paul Waldman's latest article. Read the full column here.
