As election results trickled in last Tuesday night, an initial wave of optimism within Kamala Harris’ campaign team quickly evaporated.
By the time it was clear Donald Trump had won decisively, Harris went to bed, refusing to concede until the following afternoon. Meanwhile, chaos erupted within the Democratic Party as blame for the loss spread rapidly, writes the Daily Mail.
Tensions Between Harris and Biden Allies
Harris’ aides were quick to point fingers at President Joe Biden, citing his poor record on inflation and immigration, frequent verbal gaffes, and delayed withdrawal from the race. One insider described Biden as “an 81-year-old albatross hanging around Harris’ neck.” Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi echoed this sentiment, telling The New York Times, “Had the president gotten out sooner, there may have been other candidates in the race… there would be an open primary.”
However, Biden loyalists argued Harris never stood a chance, pointing to her unpopularity and strategic missteps. They reminded critics that Biden was the only Democrat to defeat Trump in an election and highlighted Harris’ historically low approval ratings as vice president.
Internal Campaign Fractures
Harris’ inability to distance herself from the Biden administration proved costly. Her choice of running mate also came under fire, with some Democrats lamenting that Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro could have better helped secure critical swing states. One insider noted the campaign’s misplaced priorities, saying, “Why the hell are we listening to a third Lady Gaga song after midnight instead of mobilizing voters?”
The campaign’s internal dysfunction was a recurring theme, with reports of staff feeling ignored and disrespected. Pennsylvania campaign manager Nikki Lu was singled out for her ineffective leadership, and Harris’ family connections—particularly her sister Maya Harris and brother-in-law Tony West—were criticized for creating competing priorities within the team.
Echoes of Past Failures
Harris’ campaign struggles mirrored her failed 2020 presidential bid, which was plagued by allegations of a toxic work environment and poor management. Despite not holding an official title this time, Maya Harris remained a significant influence, raising concerns about her role in the campaign’s direction.
Obama’s Influence and Friction
After Biden’s withdrawal in July, Harris hastily assembled her campaign team, relying heavily on former Obama staffers and Biden handovers. Reports soon emerged of frequent clashes between these groups, with one former Biden aide lamenting that Obama-era strategies were outdated and ill-suited for Harris’ candidacy. Even David Axelrod, a prominent Obama adviser, was blamed for encouraging Democratic infighting during the primary season.
The Path Forward for Democrats
As the Democratic Party processes the loss, many are already looking ahead to 2028. Rising stars like California Governor Gavin Newsom, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and Maryland Governor Wes Moore are rumored to be preparing campaigns. Their success may depend on learning from the Biden-Harris failures and crafting strategies that resonate with voters without repeating past mistakes.
In the end, Democrats must confront their internal divisions and establish a unified vision—or risk facing another devastating defeat.
