"Kamala Harris: US 'Ready to Turn the Page' on Donald Trump"

Kamala Harris asserts that the U.S. is "ready to turn the page" on Donald Trump, reflecting a desire for new leadership and a fresh political direction. Her statement highlights a shift in the country's focus as it moves forward from the Trump era, signaling changes in policy and governance under the current administration.

‍Savannah: Kamala Harris stated on Thursday that Americans are ready to move beyond Donald Trump and steer the country in a new direction, during her first significant interview since her impactful entry into the November presidential race.

Harris, 59, sought to establish a centrist stance on CNN, emphasizing her commitment to being firm on illegal immigration and her support for the controversial practice of oil and gas fracking, while maintaining her long-standing liberal principles.

As the first female, Black, and South Asian vice president, Harris described Trump as promoting an agenda and fostering an environment that undermines the character and strength of Americans, ultimately dividing the nation. "I believe people are prepared to move forward from that," she remarked. "People are ready for a new path." The Democrat also mentioned that she would appoint a Republican to her cabinet if she wins the November election, during her joint CNN interview with her running mate, Tim Walz.

Meanwhile, Trump labeled Harris the "greatest flip-flopper" during a rally in Michigan, a crucial swing state, and ridiculed her appearance in the interview. "She didn’t strike me as a leader," the Republican commented. Harris dismissed the criticism that she had shifted her stance on politically sensitive topics like fracking, which she previously opposed but now supports, and illegal immigration across the Mexican border, where she has adopted a tougher position.

"As president, I will not ban fracking," she stated, clearly aiming to address the controversy in Pennsylvania, a key battleground state rich in fossil fuels, where the election is expected to be closely contested. Responding to criticism that she had been too lenient on immigration—a key issue in Trump’s campaign—Harris affirmed that she would sign stringent legislation as president. Harris is appealing to centrist voters concerned about immigration and energy costs. However, she reassured her left-leaning supporters that her core values remain unchanged.

"My values have not changed," Harris emphasized. On another critical issue in U.S. politics, Harris called for a ceasefire in Gaza but clarified to CNN that she would not alter President Joe Biden’s policies toward Israel, a key U.S. ally, including the continuation of weapon deliveries.

Honeymoon period?

Republicans criticized Harris for avoiding interviews since Biden unexpectedly exited the White House race nearly six weeks ago, amid growing concerns about his health and age at 81.

Harris has experienced a honeymoon period, with rising poll numbers and record-breaking fundraising, but has also faced scrutiny for keeping many of her policy positions vague as she solidifies her campaign. Harris conducted the interview during a campaign bus tour of Georgia, one of the seven battleground states expected to determine the outcome of the November 5 election.

Several polls released on Thursday showed Harris leading Trump, albeit slightly, with some indicating increased support for Harris in battleground states. A Bloomberg/Morning Consult poll found Harris ahead in six of the seven swing states, while a Fox poll also reported growing support in these crucial areas. At a rally in Savannah, concluding a two-day campaign swing through Georgia—flipped by Democrats from Trump in 2020—she acknowledged that the race would be "tight until the very end."

Trump has also been vigorously campaigning in recent days, following a period where the 78-year-old former president appeared to struggle to gain traction against a new, younger, female candidate. Speaking at an event in Potterville, Michigan, on Thursday, Trump criticized Harris for her shifts in immigration policy: "Now she's saying, 'Oh, we want to build a strong border.'" "Where has she been for the past three and a half years?"

Harris and Trump are set to face off in their crucial first debate on September 10 in Philadelphia.

For questions or comments write to writers@bostonbrandmedia.com

Source: NDTV‍