The Latest on Kamala Harris: Media Blitz and Controversies
Presidential candidate interviews on the 60 Minutes television news show are almost as ingrained in American electoral tradition as the debates, and have been so ever since the Republican Richard Nixon and the Democrat Hubert Humphrey sat down before CBS reporters in 1968.
This year, however, Donald Trump snubbed the network after initially agreeing to the interview. Kamala Harris did sit down for an interview with the news program. The Democratic candidate, who took 39 days to respond face-to-face to a media outlet after she was appointed to replace Joe Biden, has launched a media blitz to reach out to voters.
On Monday, Harris said she would not sit down with Vladimir Putin to negotiate peace in Ukraine without representation from the Kyiv government. She also said that she not only has a gun, but that she has fired it.
In addition to Monday’s interview, Harris gave another interview to the podcast Call Her Daddy, one of the most popular in the United States. She has scheduled appearances on ABC’s The View and CBS’ The Late Show. She will also participate in a Univision forum aimed at Latino voters in Las Vegas.
Harris has been taking controlled risks with her media appearances, aiming to secure every vote in a closely-fought battle.
Monday’s 60 Minutes program began with an explanation of Trump’s refusal to grant an interview. CBS anchor Bill Whitaker asked Harris about Trump’s decision, to which she responded with a poignant critique of Trump’s focus on personal grievances over the needs of the American people.
Harris defended her economic proposals, detailing her stance on taxes and wealth distribution. She also spoke about her firearm ownership and criticized a political opponent for questioning her humility based on her family status.
Before leaving for New York, Harris criticized Trump for spreading lies about relief aid in the wake of Hurricane Helene. She called out his falsehoods regarding federal aid distribution and FEMA funding.
Overall, Harris’s media blitz and interviews have provided her with a platform to address key issues, showcase her policy stances, and engage with voters in various settings.
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