As of today, it’s been 86 days since Kamala Harris was announced as the Democratic vice-presidential nominee for the 2020 U.S. elections. Despite having been in the limelight significantly as she campaigns alongside Joe Biden, Harris has not yet held a formal press conference.
Since stepping into the national spotlight as Biden’s running mate, Harris has participated in numerous interviews and attended various events. However, the formal setting of a press conference, which often involves unscripted questions from a room full of journalists, remains absent from her campaign schedule.
Her selection made history, as she became the first Black woman and the first person of South Asian descent to be nominated for vice president by a major party. This move was hailed as a momentous occasion, drawing attention and energizing supporters nationwide.
Those curious about her avoidance of traditional press conferences point out that this approach deviates from the norm for candidates of her stature. Typically, vice-presidential candidates engage more frequently with the press in formal settings, offering voters insights into their policies and personality beyond orchestrated speeches and scheduled appearances.
The absence of a formal press conference raises several questions. Some political analysts suggest that this strategy could be a deliberate choice by the campaign to minimize risks and maintain focus on the broader campaign message. Others argue that it might be part of a cautious approach to media relations, ensuring that the narrative steered by the campaign remains under control during a highly volatile election season.
However, Kamala Harris is no stranger to public speaking or the pressures of the political stage. As a former attorney general of California and a current senator, she possesses extensive experience addressing varied audiences, managing press inquiries, and dealing with the rigorous questioning that comes with government office.
In an era where digital communication often eclipses traditional media formats, Harris and the Biden campaign may be strategically choosing alternative means to communicate with the electorate, such as virtual town halls and live social media engagements, which allow for controlled settings and tailored messaging.
The campaign trail remains dynamic and ever-changing, often adapting at a rapid pace to shifting priorities and unforeseen events. As the election draws nearer, it remains uncertain whether Harris will choose to engage in a formal press conference or continue to leverage other platforms. Whether this approach will benefit or hinder voter perception is yet to be seen, but it certainly represents a significant departure from established political customs.
