In the race for the presidency, Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has been exhibiting a political agility that has left many conservatives skeptical.
Her recent policy shifts, which include a retreat from her earlier vow to ban fracking, a sudden hardline stance on border control, and an unexpected adoption of Trump's policy of no tax on tips, have raised eyebrows. Critics argue that these changes are merely a ploy to secure votes, with no real commitment to the policies she now espouses.
According to RedState, Harris's policy flip-flops have not gone unnoticed, particularly among her liberal colleagues. Despite her recent centrist rhetoric, many progressive lawmakers remain confident that Harris will return to her more liberal roots if elected. They point to the example of Joe Biden, who campaigned as a moderate but has since emerged as one of the most left-leaning leaders in American history.
Leading Senate progressive, Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.), who has co-sponsored Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, and other ambitious liberal policy goals, expressed his unwavering support for Harris. Im from Massachusetts, shes from California. On climate, on abortion, on racial, LGBTQ issues, we are absolutely in agreement on her agenda, Markey stated. He further emphasized his support by highlighting his and fellow Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren's (D.) active campaigning for Harris.
As the general election draws nearer, progressives on Capitol Hill are more concerned about the prospect of a second Trump term than they are about Harris's political reinvention. They are confident that she will support their policy initiatives if she becomes president.
Vermont independent Senator Bernie Sanders echoed this sentiment, stating earlier in September, I don't think she's abandoning her ideals. I think she's trying to be pragmatic and doing what she thinks is right in order to win the election. He added, "So yes, her views are not mine, but I do consider her progressive."
Other Democrats also seem to understand Harris's political maneuvering. They believe that despite her current rhetoric, Harris will ultimately align with progressive policies if elected. As the election approaches, progressives are not swayed by Harris's centrist rhetoric, confident that she will side with them if she gains power.
This political agility, however, raises questions about Harris's credibility. Critics argue that her policy flip-flops reveal a lack of commitment to her stated positions, making it difficult to trust her promises. As one critic noted, "In 2019 Kamala Harris advocated she will ban fracking. She then does what she always does and says what she needs to say. Now in 2024, she claims she wont ban fracking because she knows she will instantly lose Pennsylvania! Flip-Flop Harris is a fraud." This lack of trust could prove to be a significant obstacle as Harris continues her campaign for the presidency.
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