As Kamala Harris takes the stage as the likely Democratic presidential nominee, she faces a barrage of attacks from right-wing media outlets. In the last 48 hours, Harris has been targeted with various criticisms, ranging from labeling her as a radical California liberal to questioning her prosecutorial record and immigration stance.
These attacks have not only focused on her political positions but have also delved into personal aspects, such as her past relationship with former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown. The onslaught of criticisms has been fueled by racist and sexist undertones, with commentators resorting to mocking her heritage and gender.
Despite her extensive experience in law and government, Harris is being reduced to a mere 'DEI' candidate by some media figures, attributing her success solely to her race and gender. This narrative echoes the treatment Barack Obama received from right-wing media during his presidency, including the debunked birther conspiracy theory.
With the spotlight now shifting to Harris following the Democratic Party's decision, Trump's media allies are scrambling to find an effective strategy to undermine her candidacy. The attacks on Harris signal a shift in focus from Joe Biden, indicating a growing concern over her potential to challenge Trump in the upcoming election.
While the specific line of attack against Harris remains uncertain, history shows that a multifaceted approach may not yield the desired results, as seen in the case of Obama in 2008. Some Republicans have already denounced the race-based attacks on Harris, emphasizing the inappropriateness of reducing her candidacy to mere identity politics.
As the election draws nearer, the intensity of attacks on Harris is expected to escalate, reflecting the challenges faced by a powerful woman of color on the brink of making history. The outcome of these efforts remains to be seen, but the resilience and determination of Harris in the face of adversity are likely to define the narrative surrounding her campaign.
